by Deborah Meza
One aesthetic procedure made famous by many known celebrities is a Platelet Rich Plasma therapy treatment nicknamed the Vampire Facial. It’s becoming one of the most sought-after treatments that rejuvenates skin and tissue to stimulate collagen using the patient’s own plasma. The healing properties of plasma quickens the healing process with comparative results of some laser peels alone. (I personally call this rich plasma liquid gold due to it’s color and value to the body.)
Dr. Charles Runels from Alabama trademarked the Vampire Facial® and Vampire Facelift, and there is an official website with a listing of local physicians in your area that offer the service.
The plasma is obtained from the patient’s arm. (Drink plenty of water prior to this process. Being hydrated will make this process more comfortable.) The blood is then spun/processed in a machine called a centrifuge where it separates the red and white blood cells from the rich powerhouse protein plasma used for rejuvenation, enhance collagen production and repair damaged blood vessels and cells.
The PRP (growth factors) are then returned back to the patient’s facial skin in a particular way using micro needling/injections. The patient is numbed topically so the treatment is not painful. The growth factors then begin to go to work activating multipotent stem cells rejuvenating a more enhanced healthy youthful skin and tissue. Many promoting PRP claim:
- Improved appearance of wrinkles, scars and stretch marks without the cost or down time of laser
- Rejuvenate the undereye area without surgery
- Tighten stubborn open pores
- Plump and volumize any area where someone might otherwise place filler
- PRP is used for incontinence alone and combined with other procedures
- PRP is used vaginally for sexual dysfunction (O Shot)
One great benefit of PRP to all is that it is a completely natural process since it uses your own blood. Many patients are requesting the Vampire Facial because they prefer not to have fillers injected and prefer a more natural gradual rejuvenation process.
The Vampire Facelift will use hyaluronic acid fillers to sculpt an immediate younger appearance while still keeping the natural shape of the patients face. Once the blood has been processed and the plasma is obtained, it is injected and acts as a scaffolding with the hyaluronic acid filler in which the new PRP tissue growth occurs.
However, PRP can be effective when used alone. Many surgeons have been using PRP in numerous bone and joint surgeries for years due to the regenerative healing properties and the positive results documented are outstanding. I personally experienced this this year. I have suffered with otosclerosis for years and lost my hearing in my right ear. An amazing surgeon in Jackson, MS, used an implant in my ear and PRP for the healing process and I hear perfectly now! I share this experience with all to educate on the advances in medicine and how PRP can change your outlook on medicine.
Skin is an organ too. Never feel guilty about taking care of the largest organ of your body for it is truly your first line of defense against sickness and disease! Consider adding PRP into your next treatment. It is not all about vanity. Also, keep in mind that reversing the sun damage is wise and can be preventative.
Deborah Meza is a medical aesthetician, laser technician, massage therapist #187 and Ideal Protein coach at the Woman’s Clinic, 4577 13th St., Gulfport, MS 39501; (228) 341-7879 laser, skincare and massage; (228) 864-2752 clinic; Woman’s Clinic, 2781 C.T. Switzer Sr. Drive, Biloxi, MS; (228) 388-4816.