October 18, 2013 | Injectables
With the season of ghosts and goblins looming, we at Southwest Plastic Surgery thought it would be the perfect time to expand on a treatment that is becoming quite popular here in El Paso, the Vampire Facelift.
The Vampire Facelift, also known as platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections, received this name because it utilizes the patient’s own blood to treat facial wrinkles. Although blood is mainly a liquid (plasma), some of the more solid components within the blood (platelets) contain hundreds of proteins that stimulate cell growth and repair damaged cells. In fact, PRP treatments are regularly used to repair injured or degenerated tissue that is common among athletes. When PRP is injected into the face, the growth factors activate the cells in the skin to produce new collagen and fatty tissue and repair any cellular damage. The result is a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance that will continue to improve for up to three months and last for up to two years.
Dr. Agullo begins this procedure by drawing blood from the patient’s arm. The blood is then taken to a centrifuge where its components (serum, platelets, white blood cells, and red blood cells) are separated. A combination of white blood cells and platelets form the concentrated PRP that is known to minimize wrinkles, restore facial volume, and even reduce acne scars. After a numbing agent is applied, Dr. Agullo injects the solution into the desired areas of the patient’s face.
Platelet Rich Plasma vs. Facelift Surgery
Since the procedure only takes 45 minutes to complete and requires little to no downtime, those with busy schedules will likely prefer the Vampire Facelift over a surgical facelift. This procedure will also meet the needs of patients whose main concern is facial wrinkles and diminished facial volume. For those with sagging skin or skin that has poor elasticity, a surgical facelift is likely a better option.
Platelet Rich Plasma vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
PRP treatment is sometimes more effective than hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvéderm® and Restylane®, in more delicate areas of the face where the skin is very thin. PRP is also known to improve skin texture more effectively than hyaluronic acid fillers.
Dr. Agullo also uses PRP treatment to restore hair loss and aid with wound healing. At Southwest Plastic Surgery, we are proud to offer advanced treatments such as these that meet the diverse needs of our patients. If you are interested in the Vampire Facelift in the El Paso or Las Cruces areas, contact Dr. Agullo at (915) 590-7900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation.
