PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) uses the growth factors concentrated from your own blood to stimulate natural repair and renewal. It is used in several ways — to rejuvenate the skin of the face (the well-known “Vampire Facial”), to support thinning hair, to refresh the skin of the body, and to soften the appearance of scars.
THE PROMISE
The PRP Facial is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that uses stem cell science to promote a natural, more youthful-looking appearance. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), which is rich in growth factors, is derived from your own blood and injected back into the skin to “supercharge” healing. The body’s stem cells are activated to grow healthy, new tissue – including new collagen (for firmness), new fatty tissue (for volume and smoothness), and new blood vessels (for a healthy glow).
3 Steps of the PRP Facial Procedure:
FROM INSTAGRAM
Short videos Dr Karatzias has shared on Instagram.
PRP treatment — from preparing the plasma to the injections
The same growth factors that rejuvenate the skin can also be used to support the hair. For thinning hair, platelet-rich plasma is injected into the scalp, where it is thought to support the hair follicles and the surrounding tissue. It is typically given as a short course of sessions and is often chosen as a natural, non-surgical way to support the condition and appearance of the hair. Whether it is suitable for you, and what to realistically expect, is assessed at your consultation.
PRP is not only for the face. The same platelet-rich plasma can be used to refresh the skin in other areas where quality and texture matter — such as the neck, the décolletage, the backs of the hands and other areas of the body. By supporting the skin’s natural renewal, it aims to improve the appearance of firmness, tone and overall skin quality, gently and without surgery.
Because PRP is thought to support the skin’s natural repair processes, it can also be used to help soften the appearance of scars — including acne scars and some surgical or injury scars. It is often combined with micro-needling, so the growth factors reach the deeper layers of the skin where remodelling takes place. Results build gradually over a course of treatments, and your suitability and plan are discussed at your consultation.
Does PRP hurt?
Most people find it very tolerable. A small blood sample is taken much like a routine blood test, and the plasma is then returned to the skin through fine micro-punctures, which usually feel like light pinpricks. Any discomfort is typically brief and mild, and a numbing cream can be used to keep you comfortable.
Is there any downtime?
Downtime is usually minimal. Because the micro-punctures are tiny, most people return to their day fairly quickly. Some mild redness, warmth or slight swelling in the treated area is normal in the first day or two and then settles — this is the skin responding to the treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
PRP is typically given as a short course rather than a single treatment, with sessions spaced a few weeks apart, because results build gradually as the skin renews. For concerns such as thinning hair or scars in particular, a course is usually recommended. The exact plan depends on the area and your goals, and is set out at your consultation.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Because PRP works by supporting your skin’s own renewal, results build gradually over the weeks following each session rather than appearing overnight, and continue to develop over a course of treatments. The effect is not permanent — the skin keeps ageing naturally — so occasional maintenance sessions are commonly used to keep results looking their best.
Will the results look natural?
Yes — that is the aim. PRP uses your own blood plasma to encourage your skin to renew itself, so the change reads as healthier, firmer, more radiant skin rather than an artificial or "done" look. It adds nothing synthetic and does not freeze expression.
Are there any side effects?
PRP is generally well tolerated, and because it uses your own blood the risk of an allergic reaction to the material itself is very low. The most common effects are temporary redness, swelling, warmth or minor bruising at the treated sites, which usually settle within a few days. Your suitability and anything to be aware of are reviewed at your consultation with Dr. Karatzias — to arrange one, call +357 22 275522.
RELATED PROCEDURES
Injectable exosomes and polynucleotides that prompt the skin’s own repair and collagen.
Biostimulatory injectables (Sculptra, HArmonyCa) that build your own new collagen over time.
CO2 laser resurfacing that smooths scars, fine lines and uneven texture.
Book a consultation with Dr. Karatzias to discuss whether PRP is right for you — for the face, hair, body or scars. In-person in Cyprus.
CALL +357 22 275522
Staying at the forefront of medical advancement. Dr. Karatzias is proudly accredited by leading global organizations in both Plastic Surgery and Wound Management.
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