PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment is commonly performed in an office setting on men and women experiencing hair loss. The procedure uses a concentrated solution rich in plasma platelets and proteins isolated from your own blood. In our office, PRP hair restoration is performed by Dr. Toni Zhong and our medical aesthetician. The procedure will usually require about 45 to 75 minutes per session and typically, 3 sessions about 4-6 weeks apart are required.
As a treatment provider, we have detailed protocols to ensure that we deliver the most optimal results. As a patient, there are also instructions that need to be followed and these instructions are just as important as the treatment itself in delivering the results that we are looking to achieve.
If you take blood thinners, please check with your prescribing physician to ensure that there would not be any contra-indications for this treatment and if you may temporarily discontinue these medications or supplements. These medications may include Heparin, Coumadin, Plavix or beta-blockers/Inderal (Propranolol). Other medication and supplements that also contain blood thinning properties include Advil, Aspirin, fish oil and green tea. These should be avoided 10 days before your treatment and not to be resumed until 10 days after your treatment. Medications for blood pressure may be taken up to the day of the treatment and resumed after the treatment. Tylenol may be used for 
pain as needed.
Smoking is well-known to impact the delivery of oxygen to the wound, which prolongs healing. Avoid smoking three days before and after the treatment at minimum. Alcohol consumption should be avoided the day before your PRP treatment.
On the morning of your treatment, wash your hair as you normally would with regular shampoo, but do not use conditioner. Also avoid the application of sprays, gel or any styling products to your hair or scalp. Please have breakfast/lunch as usual and try to drink at least 16 ounces of water at least 2-3 hours before your treatment.
PRP treatments are performed without sedation. However, topical freezing with our special compound can be applied before the treatment to help with some discomfort. For patients that require anxiety relief during treatment, we offer an analgesic inhaler. This is a hand-held nitrous device that offers mild sedation for up to 20 minutes. You will be able to drive 20 minutes following your treatment.
After your treatment, avoid touching the treated areas for at least 8 hours. Do not wash or wet your hair or scalp for at least 4 hours after your procedure. A special shampoo and conditioner kit will be provided to you. Use of this kit commences the next day (minimum 8 hours) after treatment.
Blood thinners such as Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba and fish oils should be avoided for 1-2 weeks after treatment. (A detailed list of potential blood thinners will be provided to our patients). The goal of the treatment is to cause inflammation and taking the above-mentioned anti-inflammatories will limit this affect.
Common and temporary side effects may include bruising, swelling, itching and/or discomfort that may last up to 5 days. If you experience pain or discomfort, Tylenol may be used as directed. Ice application should be avoided due to its reduction of inflammation.
Activities to avoid 2 days after treatment include: vigorous activities causing sweat, saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and swimming. Please be sure to limit: sun exposure, alcohol, caffeine and nicotine consumption to promote healing.
In the first week following your treatment, increased water consumption is important.
At Dr. Beber and Dr. Zhong’s office, we firmly believe that what you do at home is equally as important as the treatment itself. If you have any questions about your treatment please do not hesitate to contact us.