No sooner has the cosmetic industry been abuzz about the controversial Stem Cell Facelift, along comes Selphyl, a natural form of facial volumizing procedure that purports not only to fill in hollow areas of the face but to actually stimulate the growth of new collagen - for 12 months - or permanently.
Selphyl, also nicknamed the "Vampire Facelift," is a cosmetic procedure that uses a person's own blood platelets to restore facial volume where it is needed. In addition, it claims to "jumpstart" the collagen-making process which is the major underpinning of a youthful looking complexion.
During the procedure, blood is drawn from the patient's arm. The blood is put in a centrifuge which isolates the blood platelets which are further processed, resulting in a final substance called Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM). This super-charged blood filler, rich in healing and reviving properties, are injected into hollow areas under the eyes, cheeks, naso-labial folds and other areas that need volume and lift.
There are huge implications and advantages to the Selphyl procedure:
1. Because the filler is made up of a person's own blood, there is no risk of rejection or allergic reaction;
2. The immediate results are more subtle than artificial fillers. This makes it desirable to patients who do not wish a "done" look.
3. As time passes, the immediate results get better and better. The final effect is usually seen after several weeks, during which time the injected PRFM works gradually to revive the collagen-growing and rebuilding functions of the skin and tissue.
4. Selphyl is more financially economical in the long run. Unlike artificial fillers that normally only last 6 to 9 months, the results from Selphyl last about 12 months. There is strong belief that the results could be permanent, although this is yet to be proven since the treatment is relatively new.
It should be noted though that this technology has been in use by doctors for quite some time now to promote the healing of cartilage during orthopedic surgery. In 2002, the FDA approved Fibrinet, the machine that processed the blood platelets for this procedure. Today, it is this same technology that is being employed off label for facial rejuvenation, to the delight of many patients who claim to be satisfied with the gradual and "not done" improvement that they see in their faces.
To date, there are only about 300 doctors in the United States who perform the Selphyl procedure. The treatment, which costs anywhere from $1000 to $1500, requires only one session.
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