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PRF

YCO Facial Plastic Surgery

Facial Plastic Surgery located in Encinitas, CA

You may have heard of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), but there is an even more powerful skin-rejuvenating solution that uses your own cells to create beautiful results. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is quickly becoming the blood concentration treatment of choice and is one of many services offered by Mario Yco, MD, at YCO Facial Plastic Surgery in Encinitas, California. To explore this option in greater detail, call or request an appointment online today.

PRF Q&A

What is PRF?

Like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a concentrated solution made from a small volume of your own blood. The platelets in your blood work to enable clotting and contain special proteins called growth factors.

The process of creating PRF involves isolating those platelets and reintroducing them into cleared plasma. That solution can give your body a powerful healing boost.

The first step is a blood draw, similar to the process used for routine blood testing. That blood is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the solid components of your blood from the liquids. The centrifuge speed used to create PRF is slower than that used for PRP, and the blood spends less time in the device, which yields a higher concentration of platelets.

No synthetic additives or anticoagulants are used in PRF. The injected platelets bind together to form a supportive cellular structure called a fibrin scaffold. That structure helps your growth proteins remain more active for longer periods of time.

What can PRF treat?

Platelet-rich fibrin can address a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including:

  • Wrinkles and lines
  • Lost facial volume 
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Sagging tear troughs
  • Deep facial folds

PRF can also be used for dark circles and any age spots or sun spots that develop over time.

Are PRF treatments painful?

While PRF treatments do involve a few rounds of needles, the process isn’t painful. Providing the blood used to formulate PRF is much like having blood drawn for routine screenings.

The needles used to inject PRF are incredibly thin. Dr. Yco has advanced training and experience in these types of injectable treatments. Discomfort is minimal, and if you have especially sensitive skin, you can request that Dr. Yco use a numbing cream to reduce sensation in the area.

One of the reasons PRF is becoming such a popular option is the low risk of side effects. Because PRF is formulated from your own cells, there is little risk that your body will react negatively. As compared to other options that require invasive procedures, lengthy recovery times, and a long list of potential side effects, PRF offers impressive outcomes with very low risk.

Platelet-rich fibrin is an exciting advancement in the medical and aesthetic fields. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about what this natural and powerful solution can do for your aesthetic goals. Book a visit online or over the phone today.