What Is PRP? How Platelet-Rich Plasma Is Prepared

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a preparation made from your own blood that contains a higher concentration of platelets than normal. This page is part of our guide to PRP and breast enhancement.

What platelets do

Platelets are blood cells that help blood clot and release growth factors, proteins involved in healing and tissue repair. PRP is based on the idea that delivering concentrated platelets to a tissue may encourage healing.

How it is made

• A small sample of blood is drawn, usually from your arm
• It is placed in a centrifuge, which spins the blood to separate its components
• The platelet-rich layer is collected
• The preparation is injected or applied to the target area

The process typically takes under an hour.

Why it is called autologous

Because it comes from your own blood, the risk of allergy or disease transmission from the product is low compared with donor materials. This does not make the procedure risk-free, since injection itself carries risks.

Not all PRP is the same

Systems differ in how much blood is drawn, how fast it is spun, how concentrated the platelets are, and whether white cells are included. Some are activated before injection. There is no universally agreed standard, which makes studies hard to compare.

Regulation

The kits used to prepare PRP are regulated as devices in many countries, but this does not mean that every use is approved or supported by evidence.

Questions to ask

• What system do you use and what is the platelet concentration?
• Is the preparation done in a sterile environment?
• What is the intended purpose in my breast?