PRP Therapy: The Essential Post-Hair Transplant Treatment for Optimal Results

Hair loss can be a deeply personal struggle, affecting one's confidence and self-image. While hair transplantation offers an effective solution, the journey doesn't end with surgery. At Dr Vahe Clinic London, we understand that comprehensive aftercare is crucial for achieving the best possible results. One of the most significant advancements in post-transplant care is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy – a scientifically backed treatment that enhances recovery and maximises hair growth outcomes.

What is PRP Therapy?

PRP therapy utilises the healing properties found within your own blood. The process involves taking a small blood sample, processing it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma, and then carefully injecting this concentrated solution into the scalp. These platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair follicles, promoting healthier and faster hair growth.

The Science Behind PRP for Post-Transplant Care

Evidence-Based Research

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated compelling evidence for PRP's effectiveness after hair transplantation:

• A randomised, placebo-controlled study by Garg (2017) published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that PRP injections showed significant improvements in hair count, hair thickness, and alopecia grade compared to controls over a 3-month period.[1]

• A systematic review by Cervantes et al. (2018) in the journal Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reviewed multiple clinical studies and concluded that PRP therapy shows promise for enhancing graft survival and reducing recovery time following hair transplantation.[2]

• In a controlled clinical trial by Gentile et al. (2015) published in Stem Cells Translational Medicine, patients receiving PRP treatments showed a 23% increase in hair density compared to baseline after three treatment sessions.[3]

Biological Mechanisms

The growth factors in PRP work through specific pathways to enhance transplant outcomes:

• Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF): Promotes cell division and stimulates angiogenesis, critical for follicular revitalisation. Research by Takikawa et al. (2011) in Dermatologic Surgery demonstrated increased dermal papilla cell activity after PRP application.[4]

• Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF): Enhances blood supply to transplanted follicles. A study by Li et al. (2012) in BioMed Research International showed that PRP significantly increased VEGF expression in treated tissue.[5]

• Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1): Regulate cellular proliferation and differentiation in hair follicles, as documented by Uebel et al. (2006) in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.[6]

Clinical Outcomes of PRP After Hair Transplantation

1. Improved Graft Survival Rate

Uebel et al. (2006) conducted a landmark study showing that grafts stored in PRP before transplantation demonstrated a survival rate of 95% compared to 85% in control groups.[6] This represents a significant improvement in graft viability and overall transplant success.

2. Faster Recovery and Reduced Downtime

• Research by Garg et al. (2016) in the International Journal of Trichology demonstrated that post-operative recovery parameters, including crusting and erythema, resolved an average of 2.9 days faster in PRP-treated patients compared to standard care.[7]

• A clinical study by Khatu et al. (2014) found that PRP therapy significantly reduced post-procedural inflammation and accelerated healing times in hair restoration patients.[8]

3. Enhanced Long-term Results

• A controlled study by Alves and Grimalt (2018) in the International Journal of Trichology followed patients for 12 months and documented that those receiving PRP showed approximately 15% greater hair density maintenance than controls.[9]

• Research by Gentile et al. (2017) in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that patients receiving PRP maintained significantly better results at the 12-month mark compared to controls, with hair density measurements showing a sustained improvement of 21.5%.[10]

Our Approach at Dr Vahe Clinic London

Unlike many clinics that view PRP as an optional add-on, at Dr Vahe Clinic we consider it an integral part of the complete hair restoration journey. Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Personalised PRP treatment plans based on your specific needs

• Advanced centrifuge technology that achieves optimal platelet concentrations

• Precise injection techniques that target both transplanted and native hair follicles

• Ongoing monitoring to adjust treatments for optimal results

What to Expect During PRP Treatment

Many patients are curious about what happens during a PRP session at our London clinic. The procedure is straightforward and comfortable:

1. A small blood sample (typically 15-30ml) is taken, similar to a routine blood test

2. Your blood is processed in our state-of-the-art centrifuge system

3. The concentrated PRP is carefully injected into strategic areas of your scalp

4. The entire process takes approximately 45-60 minutes

5. You can immediately resume normal activities

Most post-transplant protocols recommend 3-4 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.

Book Your Consultation Today

At Dr Vahe Clinic London, we're committed to providing evidence-based treatments that deliver superior results. If you're considering a hair transplant or looking to enhance your post-transplant outcomes, our team of specialists is ready to discuss how PRP therapy can maximise your investment in hair restoration.

Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive consultation and discover the transformative potential of combining hair transplantation with advanced PRP therapy.

References

1. Garg S. Outcome of Intra-operative Injected Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy During Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Transplant: A Prospective Randomised Study in Forty Patients. J Cutan Aesthet Surg 2016 Jul-Sep;9(3):157-164. doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.191657.

2. Cervantes J, Perper M, Wong LL, et al. Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review of the Literature. Skin Appendage Disord. 2018 Jan;4(1):1-11. doi: 10.1159/000477671.

3. Gentile P, Garcovich S, Bielli A, Scioli MG, Orlandi A, Cervelli V. The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Regrowth: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, Volume 4, Issue 11, November 2015, Pages 1317–1323, https://doi.org/10.5966/sctm.2015-0107 

4. Takikawa M, Nakamura S, Nakamura S, et al. Enhanced effect of platelet-rich plasma containing a new carrier on hair growth. Dermatologic Surgery 37(12):p 1721-1729, December 2011. | DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02123.x

5. Li ZJ, Choi HI, Choi DK, et al. Autologous platelet-rich plasma: a potential therapeutic tool for promoting hair growth. Dermatologic Surgery 38(7 pt1):p 1040-1046, July 2012. | DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2012.02394.x

6. Uebel CO, da Silva JB, Cantarelli D, Martins P. The role of platelet plasma growth factors in male pattern baldness surgery. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 118(6):p 1458-1466, November 2006. | DOI: 10.1097/01.prs.0000239560.29172.33

7. Garg S, Kumar A, Shukla P. Platelet Rich Plasma in Androgenetic Alopecia. International Journal of Trichology 15(3):p 98-104, May–Jun 2023. | DOI: 10.4103/ijt.ijt_31_21

8. Khatu SS, More YE, Gokhale NR, Chavhan DC, Bendsure N. Platelet-rich plasma in androgenic alopecia: myth or an effective tool. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2014;7(2):107-110. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.138352

9. Alves R, Grimalt R. Randomized Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Half-Head Study to Assess the Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma on the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia. Dermatologic Surgery. 2016;42(4):491-497. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000000665

10. Gentile P, Cole JP, Cole MA, et al. Evaluation of Not-Activated and Activated PRP in Hair Loss Treatment: Role of Growth Factor and Cytokine Concentrations Obtained by Different Collection Systems. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2017;18(2):408. doi:10.3390/ijms18020408

Dr Vahe Clinic is a premier hair restoration centre in London, specialising in advanced medical and aesthetic techniques and cutting-edge aftercare treatments. Our holistic approach combines surgical excellence with innovative therapies to deliver natural, lasting results.