What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?

In PRP therapy for hair loss, a person's blood is drawn and processed to be injected into the scalp. PRP therapy triggers natural hair growth and maintains the same by increasing blood supply to the hair follicle and the hair shaft's thickness. Sometimes this approach is combined with other procedures or medications for better efficacy.

PRP Therapy Process

PRP therapy is a long process. Each session is conducted 4-6 weeks apart. Maintenance sessions are done every 4-6 months. The following steps are followed during the therapy:

1. Blood sample collection: Initially, the doctor will take 20-30 ml blood samples from the patient.
2. Separation of platelets: Doctors separate platelets from blood using a centrifuge. The twofold spin process guarantees that platelets rich in growth factors are concentrated to their maximum potential. After centrifugation for 10 minutes, the blood gets separated into three layers:
   • Platelet-poor plasma
   • Platelet-rich plasma
   • Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
3. PRP extraction and activation: The doctors extract PRP from the residual layers of Platelet Poor Plasma (PPP) and RBCs in the tube. Then, an activating agent is used to activate the growth factors in the plasma before injecting it into the patient's scalp.
4. Injections of PRP into affected areas: Doctors use microneedles to carefully inject the PRP retrieved from the blood into the affected area on the scalp. Finally, the doctor injects a local anesthetic into the scalp margin before inserting the platelet-rich plasma, ensuring the patient is pain-free. 

Who is Eligible for PRP Therapy?

A patient is eligible for plasma-rich platelet therapy if the person:

• Is partially bald with low-density hair
• Does not smoke or drink frequently
• Does not take any other drugs
• Does not take blood thinners
• Does not suffer from conditions such as chronic skin, liver disease, metabolic disorders, blood disorders like sickle cell anemia, platelet dysfunction, thrombocytopenia, hypofibrinogenemia, etc.

What are the Advantages of PRP Therapy?

• It is a safe procedure with reliable results.
• Minimal side-effects such as soreness or redness of the skin for 1-2 days.
• Lesser recovery time.
• The procedure is quick and takes only 60-90 minutes to complete.
• It is a simple and non-surgical procedure.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of PRP Therapy?

In addition to the advantages of PRP treatment, there are associated risks, especially for those who are already suffering from the following diseases:

• Cancer
• Skin diseases
• Hypofibrinogenemia
• Metabolic disorders
• Systemic disorders
• Low platelet count
• Thyroid disease
• Acute or chronic infections
• Chronic liver disease
• Hemodynamic instability
• Platelet dysfunction syndrome

The possible risks involve:

• Injury to the surrounding blood vessels or nerves
• Calcification at the injecting areas
• Infection
• Scarred tissue
• Allergy to the anesthesia
• Bleeding
• Tissue damage

What are the Before and After Guidelines for the Patients Undergoing PRP Therapy?

Before the procedure:

• The person should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol one week before the procedure.
• One should also stop using all hair products three days before the procedure.
• One must wash the hair on the day of the procedure or a day before.
• Increase water intake a few days before the surgery.
• The doctor may also advise you to stop taking vitamins, blood thinners, and other medications a week before the surgery.

After the procedure:

• Wash your hair a day or two after the procedure.
• Medications such as anti-inflammatory medications should be avoided for 3-7 days after the procedure.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these interfere with healing.
• Wear protection before going out in the sun.
• Hair color can be done three days after the procedure.

What is the Success Rate of PRP Therapy for Hair Loss?

PRP therapy has a success rate of nearly 75% among patients who have undertaken the treatment. Some of the key factors that determine the success of the treatment are:

• Effective administration of the PRP injections (ample precision, care, and skill are required to get the treatment right)
• Experience level of the doctor, quality of the clinic, and care provided
• High-intensity cardio exercise helps increase the amount of PRP derived from the blood. 
• Ensuring a diet that concentrates on fruits, leafy vegetables, and proteins.
• Regular follow-up sessions and appropriate pre and post-procedural care

What is the Cost of PRP Therapy in India?

The average PRP therapy cost in India ranges between Rs.4,500 – Rs.15,000 per session across several hair clinics. The cost varies depending upon several factors, such as the city, the extent of hair loss, or any additional supplemental nutrition required.

Cost of PRP Therapy in Different Cities

What Should You Know About PRP Therapy?

• Accessibility: PRP treatment is usually available at hair clinics.
• Pain: It is a less-invasive treatment performed under local anesthesia; hence it is painless.
• Risk factors: The PRP therapy is entirely safe, with no risks of bleeding, infection, allergies, or other complications.
• Time: Hair experts recommend six to eight sessions, each spaced one month apart. One session lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours. 
• Candidacy: PRP is an option for anyone with patterned hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. This treatment is only available to people at least 18 years old. After making a complete diagnosis by recording your medical history and doing a trichoscopy, your doctor may recommend it.
• Medication and Tests: A blood test is required, and your hair specialist may recommend specific medication.
• Results: After three months, the outcomes of PRP therapy are apparent.

To Conclude

PRP is a safe and effective way to reverse hair loss and stimulate new growth. Numerous studies indicate that PRP therapy is one of the most promising and successful non-surgical methods to treat hair thinning, hair loss, and pattern baldness. After the initial sessions, a reduction in hair fall is observed. The result of treatment is more evident after the third session, as you will start noticing visible hair regrowth.