Nanofat & PRP Injections for Hair Loss

What are nanofat and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for hair loss?

In hair restoration, nanofat is combined with platelet rich plasma (PRP) and injected into the scalp. The application of nanofat plus PRP causes miniaturized hair follicles to become healthier and larger, producing more robust hair growth. Nanofat increases the proliferation rate of human follicular cells and PRP is loaded with growth factors that promote rapid angiogenesis and localized cell growth.

Anatomy of the Hair Follicle

Nanofat, or adipose-derived stem cell-conditioned medium (ADSC-CM), is rich in growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor. Vascular endothelial growth factor controls hair growth and follicle size through angiogenesis. Hepatocyte growth factor is involved in the cyclic growth of hair follicles. Platelet-derived growth factor induces and maintains the anagen phase of hair follicles. Insulin-like growth factor controls the hair growth cycle and differentiation of hair shafts. In treatment with adipose-derived stem cell-conditioned medium, each growth factor seems likely to activate hair follicles and contribute to increasing the number of hairs in patients with alopecia.

PRP, meanwhile, has been shown to have numerous growth factors. PRP therapy involves collecting the candidate’s blood and spinning it down into a concentrate of plasma that has a high platelet concentration. This is then injected back into the candidate’s scalp. Studies have reported enhanced growth after hair transplant surgery and increased hair counts when used in male and female pattern hair loss.

For the procedure, approximately 15 cc of fat is liposuctioned in the abdomen area (minimally invasive) that is then liquefied and mixed with 15 to 16 cc of concentrated PRP.

In contrast to hair transplants, low level lasers, medications like Rogaine, Propecia, and DHT inhibitors, a nanofat and PRP treatment option is non-invasive with few side effects. This hair loss treatment is not FDA approved, and the injections are not a hair replacement hair loss solution.

What cosmetic concerns do nanofat and PRP injections treat?

1. Hair Loss: Nanofat and PRP therapy encourages blood flow, offers regenerative stimulation to natural hair, and restores hair follicle health.

Who is the ideal candidate for nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss?

The ideal candidate for nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss is in the early stages of hair loss. Nanofat and PRP injections are not recommended for patients with critical low platelet count, hypofibrinogenemia, hemodynamic instability, or who have hair loss as a result of medication, stress, or medical treatment as these can be reversed.

What is the average recovery associated with nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss?

Most candidates note one to two days of recovery following nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss treatment. Minimal swelling, flaking, redness and sensitivity resolve within 48 hours. Patients are encouraged to not exercise for one week and limit sun exposure. Compression garments are to be worn which are specifically designed for drainage of residual anesthetic solution for the areas of liposuction.

What are the potential side effects of nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss?

Side effects from nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss may include minimal pain, pinpoint bleeding, and redness when the injections are being delivered. Some patients comment on a “full” or “tight” feeling in the scalp immediately after injections that can last up to about one day. Rarely, patients will complain of a mild headache the next day.

What can someone expect from the results of nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss?

The results of nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss will not be noticeable after the treatment, but develop over time with regular treatments. Results may last for months up to a year, and maintenance will be dependent on the individual candidate — though it is usually every eight months.

What is the average cost of nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss procedure?

A nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss procedure can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. The actual cost of a nanofat and PRP injections for hair loss is dependent upon location, hair loss specialist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.