Shorthand for Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix, PRFM is what dermatologists like to call liquid gold. Most patients are now familiar with PRP, platelet rich plasma, which is the first step in isolating PRFM after blood collection. However, I have treated patients clinically with either PRP or PRFM and have seen clearly that PRFM is far superior in both overall outcome and longevity of results. The far superior PRFM yields a 10x increase in growth factors and stimulation of stem cell differentiation, rather than the 5x increase achieved from PRP. This is done by a slower centrifuge process of the collected blood, by separating out contaminating cells such as red and white blood cells, and by allowing fibrin polymerization to occur prior to injection or topical use of the new highly concentrated and isolated "liquid gold". PRFM is natural and sterile to oneself as it is taken from one's own body.
Patients who are contraindicated for this treatment are those with blood borne infections such as Hepatitis C or HIV, those with clotting factor disorders such as Factor V Leiden mutation, or anyone with a blood cancer such as leukemia. Likewise, those who are pregnant or nursing are not good candidates for PRFM as the body and the blood is already working so hard to create or feed a tiny human and those plasma components are better used elsewhere. Current smokers are able to be treated with PRFM, however I do not recommend it, as I often see sub-par results in those cases.
For any other patient, PRFM is an all natural and highly effective injectable treatment option for acne and non-acne related scar revision, hair regrowth in both scarring and non-scarring alopecias, as well as treatment of under eye deficits such as hollowing, dark circles, wrinkles, and crêpey skin. PRFM is a semi-permanent or long term solution in the sense that the patient is actually improving the integrity of their skin, scalp, hair, etc. The only reason it is not called permanent is simply because, as we age our skin breaks down, losing collagen, and hair begins thinning therefore maintenance or future treatments are sometimes necessary. The entire process can be accomplished in one short visit of about 30 minutes total. This entails a blood draw, centrifugation, conversion to PRFM, and drawing up for injection or topical use. This is one of my favorite technologies/treatments to offer patients as it is natural, restorative, safe, and effective.