Platelet-rich fibrin matrix
The "platelet-rich fibrin matrix" (PRFM) method, marketed in the United States as Selphyl and also known as the vampire filler, is a process in cosmetic surgery. It is a way of extracting platelets from the patient's own blood and using them as a dermal filler – that is, as a substance injected under the skin of the face to fill out wrinkles so as to provide a more youthful appearance.[1]
Selphyl is used in outpatient procedures that, as of March 2011[update], costs about $900 to $1,500 in the U.S. and takes less than half an hour. Blood is drawn from the patient's arm and spun in a centrifuge to separate out the platelets, which are then activated with calcium chloride (to release growth factors and form the PRFM) before being injected back under the patient's facial skin.[1]
Selphyl is available on the U.S. market since 2009. It was developed and is marketed by the Aesthetic Factors corporation.[1] The platelet extraction centrifuge used by Selphyl was cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 as part of a blood collection system, "Fibrinet", for use by orthopedic doctors to speed tissue repair. As of March 2011[update] platelets extracted in this centrifuge have not been cleared or approved by the FDA for facial rejuvenation.[1] Nonetheless, Selphyl has been described as a "FDA approved dermal filler" in YouTube videos and trade publications.[1]
The efficacy of Selphyl is contested. As of March 2011[update], according to a New York Times report, it is attested by several plastic surgeons who use it but remains unproven by research.[1] Phil Haeck, the president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, dismissed the procedure as "creepy", "a gimmick" and as "antiquated as bloodletting".[1] In contrast, a February 2011 study by Anthony P. Sclafani, a paid consultant for the manufacturer of Selphyl,[1] concluded that "PRFM treatment is a well-tolerated, excellent choice for use in the face".[2]
External links
References
- ^ a b c d e f g h Saint Louis, Catherine (2 March 2011). "'Vampire Face-Lifts': Smooth at First Bite". New York Times. Retrieved 7 March 2011.
- ^ Sclafani AP (2011). "Safety, Efficacy, and Utility of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix in Facial Plastic Surgery". Arch Facial Plast Surg. doi:10.1001/archfacial.2011.3. PMID 21339469.
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