Microneedling with PRP in Westchester, New York

Commonly known as a Vampire Facelift, microneedling (collagen induction therapy) combined with platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a new technique that minimizes facial wrinkles and restores a youthful look to the face. Dr. James Gordon, an oculofacial plastic surgeon treating patients in Westchester County and Manhattan, has embraced this new treatment as a great way to give his patients longer-lasting, nonsurgical rejuvenation. The benefits of PRP therapy are magnified by the combining the microneedling procedure for a deeper treatment.

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, uses several micro-needles to carefully create micro-injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries prompt the skin to begin increasing the natural production of collagen and elastin. This increase in skin building proteins helps to improve the texture and firmness of the treated areas. Microneedling may also reduce certain scars, pores, and stretch marks.

During the past decade, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as an effective treatment for tendon, ligament,t and even bone injuries. PRP delivers concentrated platelets and growth factors to the site of injury, accelerating the healing process and regenerating tissue. Research has shown that orthopedic injuries respond very positively to PRP therapy. Not only is there an acceleration of bone and wound healing, but there is evidence of increased formation of blood vessels, connective tissue, and skin.

In order to prepare platelet-rich plasma, blood is withdrawn from the patient. The blood is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma, which contains both white blood cells and platelets, is then further concentrated until the finished product contains approximately eight times as many platelets as normal blood. While each patient is different, Dr. Gordon usually performs 1 – 3 injections during a treatment. Then, Dr. Gordon will use the microneedling device on the patient’s skin. Most patients say this feels like having sandpaper rubbed against their face, so numbing creams and local anesthesia may be used. The tiny channels created in the surface of the skin are treated with the prepared PRP. Using the microneedling before the PRP allows the treatment to reach deeper layers of the skin for a greater effect. The results of the Vampire Lift will vary among patients, but in general, the effects last longer than those produced by injectable wrinkle fillers.

Vampire Facelift usually takes 20 – 30 minutes to complete. After the procedure, most patients will have temporary redness, swelling, and mild pain in the treated areas of the face. These side effects should resolve within 3 days after the procedure. The results of the Vampire Facelift can be seen as early as 2 – 4 weeks after the procedure and patients will continue to see results for up to 6 months after the treatment. 

PRP therapy has advantages over many other treatment methods. The preparation of platelet-rich plasma is a rapid process, resulting in plasma that is available for treatment usage within the hour. It is easily administered during the same session during which blood has been withdrawn and continues to assist healing after application.

Microneedling with PRP (platelet rich plasma) has produced impressive results for Dr. Gordon’s patients. This combination treatment effectively reduces wrinkles, acne scars & discoloration, prevents skin aging and stimulates collagen growth for overall rejuvenation. In addition to microneedling, PRP is compatible with other treatment options, such as laser skin resurfacing or laser skin tightening. 

While it is called a Vampire Facelift, it is not a facelift in the traditional sense. A surgical facelift removes excess skin and tightens the muscles and tissues of the face. A Vampire Facelift will also smooth and rejuvenate the face, but it is performed with noninvasive techniques for a temporary effect.