Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and PRF Gel

PRF is derived from your own blood and is rich in growth factors, fibrin, and stem cell-like properties, making it an effective treatment for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, hair restoration, and other therapeutic purposes. This informed consent form outlines the nature of the procedure, the potential risks and benefits, and your rights as a patient. Please read the following information carefully and feel free to ask any questions.

What is PRF and PRF Gel?

1. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF):
   PRF is a concentrate of platelets, growth factors, and fibrin obtained from your own blood. The process involves drawing a small amount of blood from your vein, which is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and fibrin. The resulting PRF is used for various applications, including skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and hair restoration.
2. PRF Gel:
   PRF Gel is a more concentrated form of PRF that includes a higher concentration of fibrin and platelets in a gel-like consistency. It can be used for injections into specific areas such as the face, scalp, or joints to enhance regeneration, promote collagen production, and improve the texture and quality of the skin or treated tissues.

Expected Benefits:

• Skin Rejuvenation: PRF and PRF Gel can help improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and enhance overall skin tone and elasticity.
• Hair Restoration: PRF can promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles, improving blood circulation, and increasing collagen production in the scalp.
• Wound Healing: PRF can support faster healing of wounds, scars, and other tissue injuries.
• Non-Surgical Face Lift: PRF Gel can be injected to volumize areas of the face, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and restore youthful contour.
• Natural Regenerative Treatment: As PRF is derived from your own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or rejection is minimal.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:

Although PRF and PRF Gel are generally considered safe due to their autologous (your own blood) nature, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure, including:

1. Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection site.
2. Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain, discomfort, or a feeling of tightness in the treated area may occur.
3. Infection: As with any injection or procedure involving the skin, there is a small risk of infection.
4. Allergic Reaction: Although rare, you may experience an allergic reaction to any component used during the procedure.
5. Nerve Damage: Although uncommon, there is a risk of nerve injury during injection, which may cause temporary numbness or tingling.
6. Inadequate Results: While many patients see visible improvement, results can vary, and some individuals may require more than one treatment session.
7. Bruising or Swelling: Bruising or swelling is common after injections, especially around the eyes or other sensitive areas. This typically resolves within a few days to a week.
8. No Visible Results: In rare cases, patients may not achieve the desired effect after treatment, requiring additional sessions or alternative treatments.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:

1. Avoid Blood Thinners: Discontinue the use of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) at least 5–7 days before treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding.
2. No Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 24–48 hours prior to your treatment to reduce the risk of bruising and swelling.
3. Shave and Clean the Area: If you are receiving treatment for the scalp or facial area, you may need to shave or clean the area to ensure the best results.
4. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before your appointment to ensure optimal blood quality for PRF extraction.
5. Avoid Sun Exposure: Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds 1–2 weeks prior to the procedure to minimize irritation and optimize healing.

Post-Treatment Care:

1. Avoid Touching or Massaging the Area: Refrain from touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24–48 hours to minimize the risk of infection.
2. Minimize Sun Exposure: Protect the treated area from direct sun exposure and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
3. Avoid Intense Exercise: For 24–48 hours post-treatment, avoid strenuous activities that can increase blood flow to the area, as this can exacerbate swelling or bruising.
4. Ice Packs: If necessary, apply cold compresses or ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort in the treated area.
5. Follow-Up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and discuss any concerns or adjustments to your treatment plan.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are very few contraindications, however, patients with the following conditions are not candidates:

1. Acute and Chronic Infections
2. Skin diseases (i.e. SLE, porphyria, allergies)
3. Cancer 3) Chemotherapy
4. Severe metabolic and systemic disorders
5. Abnormal platelet function ?(blood disorders, i.e. Hemodynamic Instability, Hypofibrinogenemia, Critical Thrombocytopenia)
6. Chronic Liver Pathology
7. Anti-coagulation therapy
8. Underlying Sepsis
9. Systemic use of corticosteroids within two weeks of the procedure
10. Pregnant or breastfeeding.

Results:

Results are generally visible at 3 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next 3-6 months with improvement in texture and tone. Advanced wrinkling cannot be reversed and only a minimal improvement is predictable in persons with drug, alcohol, and tobacco usage. Severe scarring may not respond. Current data shows results may last 18-24 months. Of course all individuals are different so there will be variations from one person to the next.

Your consent and authorization for this elective procedure is strictly voluntary. By signing this informed consent form, you hereby grant authorization to our medical staff to perform and/or to administer any related treatment as may be deemed necessary or advisable in the diagnosis and treatment of your condition.

The nature and purpose of this elective procedure and the complications and side effects have been fully explained to me. Alternative treatments and their risks and benefits have been explained to me and I understand that I have a right to refuse treatment. I agree to adhere to all safety precautions and instructions after the treatment. I have been instructed in and understand post treatment instructions and have been offered a written copy of them. I understand that no refunds will be given for treatments received. No guarantee has been given by anyone as to the results that may be obtained by this treatment.

I have read this informed consent and certify that I understand its contents in full. All of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction and I consent to the terms of this agreement. I have had enough time to consider the information given me and feel that I am sufficiently advised to consent to this procedure. I accept the risks and complications of the procedure. I certify if any changes occur in my medical history I will notify the office.

I hereby give my voluntary consent to this elective procedure and release the facility, medical staff, and specific technicians from liability associated with the procedure. I certify that I am a competent adult of at least 18 years of age and am not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This consent form is freely and voluntarily executed and shall be binding upon my spouse, relatives, legal representatives, heirs, administrators, successors and assigns.

I agree, if I should have any questions or concerns regarding my treatment/results I will notify this office at immediately so that timely follow-up and intervention can be provided.