What Is PRP Treatment: Rejuvenation from Your Own Blood
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a preparation obtained from the patient's own venous blood that contains concentrated natural growth factors, applied for therapeutic purposes. The underlying principle is as follows: blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets; the plasma fraction — which is exceptionally rich in platelets — is then prepared for use.
Platelets release growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, IGF, VEGF, EGF) that trigger the body's repair mechanisms in response to injury and tissue damage. Applying these growth factors at high concentration to the target area accelerates collagen synthesis, stimulates cellular renewal and enhances vascularization.
The most important advantage of PRP is that, because the patient's own biological material is used, the risk of allergic reactions and immune system responses is extremely low.
PRP Services Available in Izmit
At Virtuana Clinic Izmit, PRP is applied to the following areas and indications:
Facial Rejuvenation PRP (Vampire Facial)
Facial PRP can be performed using two separate protocols: in combination with a dermapen (microneedling) or via direct injection technique. The dermapen + PRP combination delivers superior results compared to either technique used alone, as it simultaneously provides both mechanical collagen stimulation and growth factor action. Indications include: overall skin quality improvement, fine lines, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness.
Under-Eye PRP Treatment
The under-eye area has the thinnest and most sensitive skin on the face, while also carrying a high risk of hypo-correction and vascular complications. PRP offers a more conservative and safer alternative to filler for the under-eye region. By supporting dermal renewal it reduces the appearance of dark circles and fine lines. While results are more gradual and subtle, it is an ideal option for those seeking a completely natural appearance.
Hair Loss PRP Treatment
Hair PRP is one of the non-invasive treatments with the highest level of scientific evidence for androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern hair loss), diffuse hair loss and effluvium. Growth factors activate the dermal papilla cells of the hair follicle, supporting miniaturized follicles in resuming the production of thicker hair strands. For detailed information on the hair loss PRP protocol, see Hair Loss Treatment in Izmit 2026.
Neck and Décolletage PRP
The neck and décolletage area ages much faster than the face due to sun damage, moisture loss and collagen reduction. In this area, PRP is an effective option for reducing fine lines, improving skin quality and increasing elasticity. When combined with mesotherapy, results are noticeably superior.
Joint PRP Treatment
For orthopedic indications, PRP is applied in the treatment of knee cartilage damage, tendon injuries, epicondylitis (tennis/golfer's elbow) and mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. Joint PRP is performed under the supervision of a musculoskeletal specialist physician; injections guided by imaging (ultrasound) provide greater accuracy and efficacy.
Virtuana Clinic PRP Protocol: Technical Details
PRP quality varies significantly depending on the centrifuge system used, the speed and duration protocol, tube type and preparation technique. The protocol applied at Virtuana Clinic:
- Blood draw volume: 9–18 mL for facial PRP, 18–27 mL for hair PRP
- Centrifuge device: Class II Medical Device certified, double-spin protocol
- First spin: 1,500 rpm, 10 minutes (removes red blood cells)
- Second spin: 2,500 rpm, 10 minutes (increases platelet concentration)
- Platelet concentration: 4–6 times baseline level (approximately 1–1.5 million/μL)
- Activation: Can be activated with calcium chloride or thrombin (depending on indication)
- Application technique: Dermapen, direct injection or dermal infiltration
PRP Candidacy Criteria: The Consultation Process
Every patient undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation prior to PRP. This evaluation screens for contraindications such as coagulation disorders, active infection, immunosuppressive drug use, anemia, thrombocytopenia and active malignancy. Once a suitable candidate is identified, an individualized treatment plan is established; the number of sessions, intervals and combined treatment options are determined.
Number of Sessions, Intervals and Follow-Up Protocol
| PRP Type | Initial Sessions | Session Interval | Maintenance Session | First Results Visible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Facial Rejuvenation | 3 | 4–6 weeks | Every 6–12 months | 4–8 weeks |
| Hair Loss | 4–6 | 4 weeks | Every 3–6 months | 8–12 weeks |
| Under-Eye | 3 | 4–6 weeks | Every 6–12 months | 4–8 weeks |
| Neck–Décolletage | 3 | 4–6 weeks | Every 6 months | 6–10 weeks |
| Joint | 3 | 4 weeks | Every 6–12 months | 4–12 weeks |
Clinical Data and Efficacy of Hair PRP Treatment
Hair loss PRP treatment has attracted intense scientific interest since the 2010s. The hair PRP protocol applied at Virtuana Clinic is based on current literature findings:
| Study / Meta-analysis | Finding |
|---|---|
| Giordano et al. (2017) — JAAD meta-analysis | Average 30–40% increase in hair density after PRP |
| Gentile et al. (2015) — RCT | Statistically significant increase in hair count at month 6 after 3 PRP sessions (p<0.001) |
| Stevens et al. (2023) — Dermoscopy study | PRP treatment increased the vellus-to-terminal hair conversion rate by 40% |
| Alves & Grimalt (2018) — Comparative study | PRP demonstrated comparable efficacy to 5% minoxidil with a lower side-effect profile |
Virtuana Clinic Hair PRP Protocol: 6 Steps
Virtuana Clinic (Izmit/Kocaeli) hair PRP protocol:
- Dermoscopic evaluation: Measurement of hair density, shaft diameter and vellus/terminal ratio. A reference baseline is established before treatment.
- Blood draw: 18–27 mL of blood is drawn from the cubital vein. Tube contents (ACD-A or citrate) prevent coagulation.
- Double-spin centrifugation: Platelet concentration is brought to 1.0–1.5 million/μL.
- Topical anesthesia or nerve block: Scalp block anesthesia is applied for pain minimization.
- Intradermal injection: Multiple injections at 1–1.5 cm intervals into areas of densest hair loss. A total of 40–60 injection points.
- Follow-up and dermoscopic review: Comparative dermoscopy against previous findings before each session. Camera documentation.
Expectations and Limitations of Hair PRP
Realistic expectation management is critical in PRP hair treatment:
- Shedding is stopped, not reversed from scratch: PRP strengthens active follicles; it cannot revive completely dead follicles.
- Norwood I–IV, Ludwig I–II: The best response is obtained at these stages.
- Norwood VI–VII or completely bald areas: PRP has limited effect; hair transplantation may be evaluated.
- Diffuse thinning in women: Success increases when hormonal triggers (thyroid, ferritin, androgens) are managed concurrently.
PRP in Combination with Mesotherapy and Laser
While PRP is a powerful treatment on its own, synergistic effects can be achieved through appropriate combinations. The most frequently preferred PRP combinations at our clinic:
- PRP + Mesotherapy (hair): Can be applied in the same session or in consecutive sessions; the combination of growth factors and nutrients both stimulates and nourishes the hair follicle
- PRP + Dermapen (face): One of the best-evidenced combinations; allows deeper infiltration of PRP via microchannels
- PRP + Fractional Laser (acne scarring): PRP applied 24–48 hours after a laser session accelerates the healing process and reinforces collagen synthesis
- PRP + Filler (face): A powerful anti-aging protocol combining volume restoration and tissue quality improvement in a single session
Appointment and Contact
The first step to beginning PRP treatment at Virtuana Clinic Izmit is a complimentary consultation session. During this session your blood parameters are assessed, your suitability is confirmed and your personalized treatment plan is created. Appointments can be booked online via the website. Patients are welcomed from Izmit and surrounding Kocaeli districts (Gebze, Körfez, Gölcük, Darıca).
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified physician for treatment decisions.