Platelet-rich fibrin matrix method

The "platelet-rich fibrin matrix" (PRFM) method, marketed in the United States as Selphyl and also known as the vampire filler or vampire facelift, 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]

PRFM is used in outpatient procedures that, as of March 2011, 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 injected back under the patient's facial skin. It can also be combined with other fillers such as Juvéderm, and a procedure using this combination has been trademarked as "vampire facelift"."[1]

PRFM has been 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 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 PRFM is contested. As of March 2011, 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]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Saint Louis, Catherine (2 March 2011). "‘Vampire Face-Lifts’: Smooth at First Bite". New York Times. Retrieved 7 March 2011.
  2. ↑ Sclafani AP (February 2011). "Safety, Efficacy, and Utility of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix in Facial Plastic Surgery". Arch Facial Plast Surg 13 (4): 247–51. doi:10.1001/archfacial.2011.3. PMID 21339469.

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