Vampire Filler: A Stem Cell Face Lift?
Could we be on the edge of finding eternal youth? Or at least looking like we’re young?
A new anti-aging procedure, often known as "The Vampire Filler" involves drawing a patient's blood and using it as an injectable filler. Claimed benefits over traditional techniques include a lower chance of an allergic reaction, and a longer-lasting, but not permanent, result.
In the technique, blood is drawn and centrifuged to separate the white, red and plasma cells. The plasma is rich in a platelet material called Platelet Rich Fibrin Matrix – PRFM, which, when injected, recruits stem cells. These cells encourage the growth of collagen and the development of the dermal matrix. As soon as the PRFM is injected, growth factors are released into the skin through a sustained mechanism, which can last up to seven days.
I recently spoke about this process with Gail Humble, MD, a Hermosa Beach, CA, practitioner of cosmetic injection-based practices. According to Humble, “When it comes to facial rejuvenation via PRFM, there are two methods to achieve positive results. One is utilizing your body’s own fat, which is harvested via liposuction, then centrifuged, adding the PRFM, and injecting. What this does compared to ordinary fat transfer is insure the growth of the fat, adding protection, if you will. Often times, fat transfers are reabsorbed to a large degree, and require about 3-4 days of downtime.”
“With the PRFM and fat transfer, you will see immediate volumizing results. With the PRFM only, it may take up to 5 weeks to see sustained volume gain, but there is no down time. The results are permanent, however, keep in mind that aging is a process, and will naturally continue."
Because this is a treatment that utilizes the patients own tissue, the risk of allergic reaction is minimized. Dr. Humble additionally points out, “These therapies have been used for connective tissue repair in the animal world for years.”
Recent developments in PRFM usage include treating cardiovascular problems, orthopedic issues, diabetes and spinal cord injuries.
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