What Is PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)?
Platelet-Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is an autologous material prepared by concentrating platelets and fibrin from a small sample of a patient’s own blood. It’s a platelet concentrate preparation method that came after Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), an earlier preparation method.
What Is the PRF Preparation Process?
To prepare PRF, a small blood sample is drawn from the patient, similar to routine bloodwork, and placed in a tube that is then spun in a centrifuge. PRF tubes don’t contain the anticoagulant additive used in PRP preparation, and they’re spun at a different rate, which concentrates platelets and fibrin toward the top of the tube.
Once prepared, PRF can be used as a membrane, a liquid, or an injectable, depending on the procedure. A microneedling system is used in many PRF facial esthetic procedures to incorporate the preparation into the skin.
Where PRF Is Incorporated
PRF is used across a number of fields, including facial esthetics, dentistry, and orthopedic and sports medicine settings, though the preparation and application differ by field and procedure. At CARE Esthetics, our focus is facial esthetics. PRF is incorporated as a material into procedures such as microneedling for skin texture, certain treatment plans addressing the under-eye area, select hair-restoration procedures, and certain injectable procedures used for cheek volume as part of a customized treatment plan.
PRF is also used in some dental procedures related to oral surgery and tooth extractions, though that use falls outside CARE Esthetics’ facial esthetic treatment plans.
How Is PRF Different From PRP?
PRP and PRF are both platelet concentrates, but they’re prepared differently. PRF tubes don’t contain the additives found in PRP tubes, and PRF is spun at a different rate, producing a fibrin matrix rather than a plasma solution. Because of these differences, your physician may recommend PRP, PRF, or a combination depending on the procedure and your treatment plan.
Is PRF Right for You?
Whether PRF fits your facial esthetic treatment plan depends on your goals, your skin, and the procedure you’re considering. Speak with a CARE Esthetics physician to find out which approach may be right for you. Individual results vary.
