Will PRP work in someone who is a 70 year old female?

Question

I was told that I will not have enough platelets in my blood so I will not get the results a younger individual will achieve, Is this true as I really don't want to waste my money?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

PRP treatments are fast growing in popularity. While there is a good deal of anecdotal data on its positive effects, there is very little randomized controlled (i.e. high quality) data available. With respect to hair restoration, proponent have demonstrated impacts ranging from slowing/cessation of loss to thickening/strengthening of hair. Some will claim to have demonstrated regrowth.
Ultimately, there is very little drawback or risk to the procedure with the potential for significant reward. While the mechanism of action is not entirely clear, the effect will likely be rooted in the native concentration of growth factors in any given patient's plasma. Some will have better quality or more concentrated plasma than others. The results range from decreased hair loss to thickening of existing or emerging hairs to increased growth. Ultimately, the variability in response is likely linked to the inherent (i.e. genetic) quality of the plasma which will differ from one patient to the next.
PRP has (anecdotally) proven to be effective in the arena of hair restoration both as an adjunct to grafting as well as standalone treatment for those who may not (yet) be a candidate for grafting. Patients have demonstrated slowed loss, thickening of existing hair and regrowth. The typical duration of effect is 6-9 months with most patients being treated 2x yearly (at least initially).
With regards to your specific question, as long as you have adequate platelet counts you are a candidate. However, these counts do vary with age and in my experience younger patients do have a more vigorous response. That is not to say older patients will not have a response, however they may need to temper expectations.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS), with experience in hair restoration.
Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
RealSelf Top 100
RealSelf Hall of Fame

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

The amount of platelets in the blood decreases with increasing age. A minimum of 105,000 platelets is necessary to have an adequate response with PRP. Interestingly, platelet activity increases as age increases. The amount of increased activity has not been studied after the age of 50. Have a platelet count done and you can determine if you are a candidate for PRP for hair. Jeff Rapaport MD FAADRealself Verified All-star

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

It may be that your platelet counts are low but the more pressing issue in my mind is - what is your diagnosis? PRP does not help all conditions.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I believe you should see a hair loss professional for an in person consultation. Its difficult to say without seeing you and knowing your history.Best wishes.Dr. T

Will PRP work in someone who is a 70 year old female?

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Answer: Will PrP work?

Answer: Will PrP work?

Answer: Female hair loss

Answer: Female hair loss

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Will PRP work in someone who is a 70 year old female?

Answers (8)

Answer: Will PrP work?

Answer: Will PrP work?

Answer: Female hair loss

Answer: Female hair loss

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about PRP for Hair Loss

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.