PGF (Platelet Growth Factor) by Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center

Platelet Growth Factor, or also known as “PGF” is an injection treatment whereby a person’s own blood is used. About 20cc‐50cc of patient own blood and spun down in a special centrifuge (according to standard Harvest Techniques) to separate its components Red Blood Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, and Plasma.

Traditional platelet rich plasma(PRP) is first separated then activated with a small amount of calcium to allow the release of growth factors from the platelets which in turn amplifies the healing process. Wave PGF® save the growth factors into the fibrin fiber and secrete gradually in to our system. As a result new collagen build and repair effect last longer than traditional PRP treatment.

The full procedure takes approximately 45 minutes ‐ 1 hr. Generally 2‐3 treatments are advised, however, more may be indicated for some individuals. Touch up treatment may be done once a year after the initial group of treatments to boost and maintain the results.

BENEFITS of PGF:

Along with the benefit of using your own tissue therefore eliminating allergies there is the added intrigue of mobilizing your own stem cells for your benefit. PGF has been shown to have overall rejuvenating effects on the skin as in: improving skin texture, fine lines and wrinkles, increasing volume via the increased production of collagen and elastin, and by diminishing and improving the appearance of scars. Other benefits: minimal down time, safe with minimal risk, short recovery time, natural looking results, no general anesthesia is required.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

PGF used for aesthetic procedures is safe for most individuals between the ages of 25‐80. There are very few contraindications, however, patients with the following conditions are not candidates:

Acute and Chronic Infections
Skin diseases (i.e. SLE, porphyria, allergies)
Cancer / Chemotherapy
Severe metabolic and systemic disorders
Abnormal platelet function (blood disorders, i.e. Haemodynamic Instability, Hypofibrinogenaemia, Critical Thrombocytopenia)
Chronic Liver Pathology
Anti‐coagulation therapy
Underlying Sepsis
use of corticosteroids within two weeks of the procedure
Pregnant or breastfeeding

RISKS & COMPLICATIONS:

I have been informed that some of the Side Effects of PGF include:

Pain or itching at the injection site
Bleeding, Bruising, Swelling and/or Infection
Short lasting pinkness/redness (flushing) of the skin
Allergic reaction to the solution
Injury to a nerve and/or muscle
Nausea/Vomiting
Dizziness or fainting
Temporary blood sugar increase

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.