Dr. Riyaz Hassanali Discusses Platelet-Rich Plasma with Stem Cell for Hair Growth
Hair loss, known as alopecia, is a common source of embarrassment for men and women alike. More than 56 million Americans experience some type of hair loss in their lifetime. Most often it is due to genetics, but it can also be a result of hormonal changes, ageing and even stress. Though there are prescription drugs and surgical interventions on the market targeting this issue, they can be expensive and do not get at the root cause. Dr. Riyaz Hassanali is an advanced cosmetic surgeon and member of the International Society of Hair Restorative Surgery. He took the time to explain platelet rich plasma and how it affects hair growth.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
A procedure that was first used to help with healing after joint surgery and injury has shown great potential for hair regrowth. Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP for short, restores hair growth through injections of a patient’s own platelets into their scalp. It takes no more than 90 minutes in the doctor’s office per session, and requires little downtime before resuming regular activities, including exercise.
Blood comprises of red cells, white cells, and platelets. Though platelets are best known for blood clotting, they also contain proteins known as “growth factors,” which play a critical role in tissue repair and regeneration. Platelet-rich-plasma is a concentration of platelets many times greater than found in the blood alone, and therefore has a higher concentration of these growth factors.
How Does the Procedure Work?
First, a small amount of the patient’s blood will be drawn, Dr. Riyaz Hassanali explains that the drawn blood is then placed in a specialised machine called a centrifuge, which separates and concentrates the platelets. The platelets are separated and concentrated to create a “golden layer” on top of the red blood plasma.
A topical aesthetic is applied to the parts of the scalp showing symptoms of hair loss. The activated platelets are then injected into the areas of the scalp. Dr. Riyaz Hassanali states that growth factors from the PRP create a “healing cascade,” encouraging hair growth by helping to repair blood vessels, stimulate collagen, and promote stem cell growth around the hair follicles. The procedure not only triggers hair growth, but also maintains the growth cycle and decreases hair loss.
How Many Treatments are Required
Treatment will vary based on your patient needs, but usually starts with a set number of treatments spaced one month apart. Going forward, maintenance treatments will be required but over longer periods of time, depending on patient need and results.
How long will it take to see results?
The hair growth cycle is a fairly slow cycle which means that results are not immediate. Dr. Riyaz Hassanali explains that there are several factors which will determine the pace at which a patient notices meaningful results; however, it most commonly takes a few months of treatments.
Who are the Best Candidates for Treatment?
The best candidates for this procedure are patients with areas of thinning or weak hair, but who are not bald. There are no serious and potentially life-threatening risk associated with PRP, which therefore makes it an excellent option for those who are experiencing early hair loss who want to look and feel their best.
Dr. Riyaz Hassanali’s Final Thoughts
Platelet-rich plasma can be added with placental stem cell for added hair growth which is a new solution for many of those who are affected with hair loss. The minimally invasive procedure is extremely safe and quick procedure might be the best option to stimulate hair growth for you; however, Dr. Riyaz Hassanali states you must consult with your doctor to determine if you are a healthy candidate.
