1. What is PRP and How is it Applied?
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) refers to plasma enriched with platelets and is a compound containing a high concentration of platelets obtained from a person's own blood. The growth factors contained in PRP have tissue-regenerating and healing properties. The application of PRP after hair transplantation is intended to accelerate the healing of hair follicles and ensure that new hair grows stronger.
To obtain PRP, a certain amount of blood is first drawn from the patient. This blood is processed in a special centrifuge device to obtain platelet-rich plasma. The obtained PRP is injected into the scalp with fine needles. Local anesthesia is generally used during this procedure to ensure the patient's comfort.
2. How Many Sessions of PRP Are Needed After Hair Transplantation?
The number of PRP sessions required after hair transplantation can vary depending on the patient's needs and the condition of the area where the hair was transplanted. Generally, PRP therapy is applied in several sessions to achieve the best results.
Initial Sessions: The first PRP session is usually performed 1-2 weeks after hair transplantation. This is important to accelerate the healing process of the transplanted hair follicles. After the first session, 3-4 more sessions are recommended at 4-6 week intervals.
Maintenance Sessions: After the initial sessions are completed, 2-3 maintenance sessions per year can be performed to strengthen the hair follicles and continue new hair growth. These sessions are important for improving the quality and density of the hair.
3. What Are the Benefits of PRP?
The application of PRP after hair transplantation has many benefits. These benefits improve both the retention of transplanted hair follicles and the overall health of the hair.
Fast Healing: The growth factors in PRP increase micro-circulation in the scalp, allowing the transplanted hair follicles to heal faster. This helps reduce redness and swelling that occur after hair transplantation.
Retention of Hair Follicles: PRP helps hair follicles adhere better to the scalp. This reduces the shedding rate after hair transplantation and makes the transplanted hair follicles more permanent.
Improvement in Hair Quality: PRP therapy nourishes existing hair follicles, promoting the growth of stronger and healthier hair. This improves the quality of the hair and provides a fuller appearance.
New Hair Growth: PRP stimulates hair follicles to promote new hair growth. This helps achieve a denser hair appearance, especially in areas that remain sparse after hair transplantation.
4. The PRP Application Process and Side Effects
PRP application is generally a short procedure with minimal side effects. The duration of the procedure usually ranges from 30-60 minutes, and patients can usually return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure.
Application Process: During the PRP application, blood drawn from the patient is centrifuged to obtain PRP. The obtained PRP is injected into the scalp with fine needles. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure to prevent discomfort for the patient.
Side Effects: The side effects of PRP application are generally mild and temporary. Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness may be seen on the scalp after the application. These side effects usually resolve within a few days. Since PRP is obtained from the patient's own blood, the risk of allergic reactions is very low.
Precautions: There are some precautions to be taken before and after PRP application. Before the procedure, it is necessary to consult a doctor about the use of blood-thinning medications. After the procedure, it is important to keep the scalp clean and dry. Also, it is recommended to avoid intense sun exposure for the first few days after the PRP application.
Conclusion
The application of PRP after hair transplantation is a highly effective method for improving hair transplantation results and increasing hair health. The growth factors contained in PRP allow hair follicles to heal faster and hair to grow stronger and healthier. The number of sessions required is determined according to the patient's needs and usually involves several initial sessions followed by maintenance sessions. PRP application, with its minimal side effects and fast recovery process, is a preferred treatment method after hair transplantation.