Key facts at a glance
- PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is obtained from your own blood without adding anticoagulants.
- Unlike PRP (platelet-rich plasma), PRF forms a fibrin network that releases growth factors over several days.
- PRF is used, among other things, to improve the skin, for scars, for hair loss and as an autologous filler.
- We will clarify which application makes sense for you during the medical consultation.
Regenerative medicine and aesthetics have made remarkable progress in recent years, particularly through the use of autologous blood products such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). PRF is regarded as a further development of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and is used for skin regeneration, to support tissue structure and in wound healing.
What is PRF?
PRF is a concentrate obtained from autologous blood that is rich in platelets, leucocytes and growth factors. Unlike PRP, PRF is produced without chemical additives such as anticoagulants. Instead, PRF utilises the natural properties of the blood to form a fibrin network that specifically supports the regenerative effect.
PRF or PRP: what is the difference?
The differences lie in how they are prepared and how they work:
- No chemical additives - Natural activation
PRF is prepared without the anticoagulants that are used in PRP to prevent premature clotting. These additives can influence the natural regeneration processes. PRF, on the other hand, activates itself and releases growth factors slowly and evenly. - Slow release of growth factors
While PRP releases its bioactive substances within a few hours, PRF releases growth factors such as PDGF and TGF-β over several days. As a result, the regenerative stimuli last longer. - Gentle preparation
PRF is prepared at lower centrifugation speeds, which better preserves platelets and leukocytes. They play an important role in regeneration because they support collagen formation and the formation of new blood vessels. - Natural fibrin network
PRF forms a stabilising fibrin network that holds the growth factors and cells in place. This structure ensures that the regenerative processes take place locally and in a targeted manner.
Applications of PRF in aesthetic medicine
PRF is versatile and is used for various purposes in aesthetic medicine:
- Skin rejuvenation and wrinkle treatment: PRF can stimulate collagen and elastin production and thus contribute to more elastic, better hydrated skin.
- Treatment of scars and acne: PRF can improve the appearance of scars by promoting cell migration and collagen synthesis. More on this under Scar treatment.
- Hair growth promotion: PRF can stimulate dormant hair follicles and thus encourage hair growth. More on this under Hair therapy.
- Improvement in skin quality: As a natural filler (PRF gel), PRF can compensate for volume loss in the face, especially in delicate areas such as around the eyes.
Why we rely on PRF at Medical Contour
At Medical Contour, we have deliberately chosen PRF because it requires no additives and releases its growth factors over a longer period. Our many years of experience with PRF allow us to create individual, scientifically based treatment plans tailored to the needs of our patients.
Our work is based on a deep understanding of the physiological mechanisms behind tissue regeneration, combined with modern technologies and treatment approaches. You can find all information on the procedure and applications on our page on PRF treatment in Hamburg.
Conclusion
PRF plays an increasingly important role in regenerative aesthetics. It is obtained from your own blood, requires no additives and releases its growth factors slowly. How pronounced a result is varies from person to person. At Medical Contour, we use PRF in a targeted way – always with a focus on quality and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PRF the same as PRP or a “vampire facelift”?
Both methods use your own blood. Anticoagulants are added to PRP (platelet-rich plasma) but not to PRF. As a result, PRF forms a fibrin network that releases growth factors more slowly. The term “vampire facelift” is used colloquially for both methods.
How is PRF obtained?
We take a small amount of blood and separate its components in a centrifuge at low speed. The PRF obtained in this way is used immediately afterwards.
How many treatments are advisable?
That depends on the treatment goal. For skin and hair, we often recommend several sessions. We will discuss the exact plan during your consultation.