Platelet-Rich Fibrin

What is platelet-rich fibrin?

Whilst you may have heard of platelet-rich plasma or PRP, Platelet-rich fibrin, also known as PRF, is a little less known although offers greater anti-ageing properties. It is used to promote tissue regeneration. It is a specialised procedure that uses your own platelets which contain a high-density fibrin network that, once injected into the skin releases growth factors over a 10 day period.

So why is PRF more beneficial?

This is because it releases growth factors in your body for up to 10 days, while PRP only emits them for a few hours. Growth factors are responsible for encouraging youthful collagen and elastin, so the longer release time in PRF equates to dramatically better results.

The procedure

During the treatment, a sample of blood is taken from your arm and placed in a centrifuge. Only the top layer of blood is used as this contains the important platelets.

The product can either be injected under the skin, or used in combination with microneedling or peels.

The procedure usually takes one hour to complete.

Side effects

The procedure is considered very safe, with no risk of an allergic reaction or delayed complications which can occur with dermal fillers.

You will likely experience some minor swelling which usually improves within a few hours.

The most common side effect is bruising.

Please note that treatments are unlikely to be given on the day of consultation to allow you to decide whether this is the right decision for you.

Downtime and aftercare

There is almost no recovery time. Patients may feel some minor pain and discomfort but can return to day-to-day activities immediately.