Since 1987, injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have been used to promote cell regeneration. Originally used to offset the effects of osteoporosis in knees, PRP is today used on other parts of the body, including the face.

The popular PRP non-invasive facelift uses a vial of blood drawn from an individual spun in a centrifuge at intensely high speeds, causing the blood to separate into layers. Red blood cells, which comprise approximately 45 percent of blood, are forced to the bottom of the vial. White blood cells and platelets form a thin middle layer, called a buffy coat, which comprises less than 1 percent of the centrifuged blood. After the centrifuge process is complete, the doctor or registered nurse removes the vial from the centrifuge and prepares the PRP solution for injection.

“PRP, which works for all ages, causes the body to produce more collagen and elastin. Visible results such as an increase in skin firmness, as well as a smoothing of fine lines and wrinkles, can be seen in one or two treatments. Facial skin renewal continues for approximately three months after the procedure, and the overall effects can last for more than a year,” says Dr. Brian Smith, a practicing physician at Sagewood Institute, in Naples.

This non-surgical, three-step process, which takes about 30 minutes and leaves no scars, may make it unnecessary for individuals to require an aggressive or uncomfortable procedure such as surgery.

Sagewood Institute, located at 801 Anchor Rode Dr., Ste. 304, in Naples, offers PRP face uplifts. For more information, call 239-434-971 or visit SagewoodFL.com.