Hair Loss Treatment

PRP for hair loss treatment involves using a patient's own blood, processed to isolate platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which is then injected into the scalp to treat hair loss or hair thinning, and to prevent or slow down further hair loss.

The procedure is generally tolerated well, but injections do tend to cause some degree of discomfort depending on your pain tolerance and other factors such as the type and size of needle used to do the injections.

There are several techniques available to minimize discomfort during the procedure including applying an ice pack and using a vibration anaesthesia device, or applying numbing cream to the treatment area. Dr. Grunau may also offer pain management using a “scalp block” technique. This technique involves lidocaine injections to numb the nerves that supply sensation to the scalp.

You may discuss these pain management options during your consultation with Dr. Grunau.

PRP contains a concentrated amount of growth factors and proteins that are essential for tissue repair and regeneration. Over time, PRP stimulates hair growth by improving blood supply to the root of the hair, and impacts the hair growth cycle to promote hair growth and thickness. 

Gradual hair loss and thinning affects both men and women. This is known as androgenic alopecia (AGA), which becomes apparent with age. The prevalence of AGA is up to 80% in caucasian males and 50% in females. Men tend to experience hair loss more commonly at a younger age than women. Most women will notice significant hair loss in their 40’s, leading up to and after menopause. 

Once hair loss has advanced and there are no follicles remaining in patchy areas of the scalp, PRP is not an effective treatment.

PRP is considered safe because it is a completely natural product, using the patient's own blood. Since the PRP serum is sourced from the patient’s blood, this basically eliminates the risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects. However, like any medical procedure, there can be potential risks and side effects. 

Common side effects include tenderness, swelling, bruising and redness at the injection site. Other more serious complications, such as infection, are very rare.

You will likely modify your social activity slightly until the day after your treatment, since you may not wash your hair for 24 hours following treatment. Although there is no significant downtime, there are specific aftercare instructions to support your treatment. Click here for detailed instructions on what to expect before and after your treatment, and to help you plan.

An initial series of 4 treatments spaced approximately 4 weeks apart are recommended for optimal results. 

There are medical studies and clinical evidence available that support the use of PRP to improve hair quality and volume, and to prevent further hair loss. In addition, many surgical hair transplant protocols use PRP to give the procedure the best chance of success and to stimulate hair growth, which further supports the role of PRP in treating hair loss.

When compared with other topical and oral treatments available to treat hair loss, PRP frequently performs better and is not associated with the same potentially frustrating side effects of medication. After a series of 4 PRP treatment sessions, many patients notice significant hair regrowth and improvement to hair thickness and volume.

The response to treatment varies, accounting for individual medical history, genetics, pre-existing hair quality and quantity, platelet count and other factors. Results are not guaranteed.

Patience is key! While some patients notice subtle changes after the first 1-2 treatment sessions, results are slow and gradual, becoming more noticeable over 3-6 months following the initial treatment as cell turnover and the hair growth cycle takes place. Maximum results tend to be noticeable 6-12 months after the series of treatment sessions are completed. 

Individual results vary due to variability in the level of pre-existing hair quality and quantity, the patient’s own platelet quality and platelet count, genetics, and other environmental factors. 

There is no standard response to treatment, accounting for individual medical history, genetics, pre-existing hair quality and quantity, platelet count and other environmental factors. 

That being said, it is reasonable to expect overall healthier hair, with improved texture after the recommended 4 treatment sessions. And many patients notice significant hair regrowth and improvement to hair thickness and volume. 

After the initial round of 4 treatments, the results generally last approximately 12-18 months. For maintenance, a single PRP hair treatment is recommended every 6-12 months after the initial series.

• History of metastatic conditions like cancer, particularly blood cancers
• Infection in the areas targeted for PRP therapy
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Anemia (low blood count)
• Platelet disorders
• History of severe liver disease
• Incidence of a recent fever or illness
• Excessive smoking or drinking
• Recent or regular NSAIDS use (Patients are advised to avoid taking NSAIDS like Advil, Voltaren, and Naproxen for 7 days before and after their PRP session.)
• Anticoagulant prescription medications or antiplatelet therapy

Other alternatives for tear trough treatment include oral medications, topical medication, and surgical interventions such as hair transplants. Some patients may choose to continue oral or topical medications prescribed by their physician, in conjunction with PRP treatments. 

The cost of the treatment depends on the size and scope of the treatment area and the number of planned treatment sessions. A single treatment session ranges in cost from $800-$950. Packages for a series of 4 treatment sessions are available, and may be discussed during your consultation.