Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
Platelet-rich plasma is an autologous concentrate made from a patient's own blood. Spinning the sample separates a plasma fraction rich in platelets and their growth factors, which is then injected into the target tissue to support healing.
How is platelet-rich plasma prepared?
A small volume of blood is drawn and centrifuged. The platelet-rich plasma layer is separated from red cells and platelet-poor plasma, then injected — often under ultrasound guidance — into a joint, tendon, scalp or wound bed. Because the material is autologous, immune rejection is not a concern, and the whole process usually takes under an hour.
What is PRP used for?
PRP is most commonly discussed for:
- Knee and hip osteoarthritis — see knee outcomes data
- Tendon problems including tennis elbow and golfer's elbow, Achilles and rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis and chronic ligament strain
- Hair thinning and androgenetic alopecia — compare with stem cell approaches to hair regrowth
- Skin quality, scarring and post-procedure recovery
PRP vs stem cell therapy vs exosomes
PRP delivers growth factors but no living cells. MSC therapy delivers cells that respond to the tissue environment and signal over a longer period. Exosome therapy delivers cell-derived vesicles without the cells themselves. PRP is the least complex and least expensive of the three; it is also the most limited in scope.
Where more than one route is plausible, we compare them case by case — see combined protocols and MSC versus exosome decision guidance.
PRP therapy cost and course length
PRP is typically given as a short course of injections spaced two to four weeks apart, with review at three months. Because it is prepared chairside, it costs substantially less than cell-based therapy. Current inclusions are set out in our pricing page and, for international patients, in the Turkey cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is PRP therapy safe?
PRP uses your own blood, so allergic reaction and rejection are not expected. Temporary soreness, swelling or bruising at the injection site is common for a few days. Infection risk is low when the preparation is done in a sterile clinical setting.
How long does PRP take to work?
Most patients are assessed at 6–12 weeks. Tendon and joint responses build gradually; a single session is rarely the whole plan.
Is PRP better than stem cell therapy?
Neither is universally better. PRP suits localised tendon and mild joint problems; cell-based therapy is discussed for more advanced degeneration or systemic conditions, and only after a medical review.
Ask whether this is right for you
Share your diagnosis and recent records. Our medical team in Istanbul reviews candidacy, alternatives and realistic goals before any treatment plan is proposed.
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