First, blood is drawn from the patient and separated via centrifuge (this spins the components at a very high speed, separating the cellular components from each other - I used these all the time in my lab!) to isolate the blood platelets and the fibrin. In the Selphyl System, the separated mixtures are called the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and the activated Platelet-rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFP). The mixture is then further prepared for injection, and is administered just below the surface of the skin.
The result? A natural increase in volume and an overall rejuvenated appearance, mostly due to the mixture's ability to encourage cell proliferation and collagen formation.
But how, exactly, does this work? and Why?! Well, platelets are colourless, irregularly-shaped bodies that have sticky surfaces and are present in our blood. Platelets are involved in the clotting of the blood. They gather around a wound and are aided by Calcium, Vitamin K, and fibrogen to form a web-like mesh. Fibrin plays a similar role. It is an insoluble protein that is formed in response to bleeding by its soluble precursor, fibrinogen and clotting enzyme, thrombin. Fibrin forms a long, fibrous chain, and entangles itself at the site of a wound, with the platelets, to form a spongy mass. Makes sense in terms of adding volume when administered to the face, doesn't it?!
Moreover, natural growth factors and other cellular components encourage increased cell proliferation (ie. new cells to form) and of course, the ever so sought after, collagen production.
Learn more about Selphyl here
