How deep does the needle go for PRP in the scalp?

Question

I'm kind of afraid of needles and I know they numb everything but still weary. How deep does the needle go in mm for PRP in the scalp? Also, how often should it be done for best results?

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

At present there is no standardization as to exactly which layer of the scalp the PRP should be injected into ,but typically the depth is about 4-6 mm (around 1/8-1/16th of an inch)-not very deep !  Additionally we use extremely thin needles to inject the PRP,and this is done after the scalp is anesthetized.

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 and the depth of the injection. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. This procedure should be done once every four weeks for optimum results.  See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

PRP injections go to different depths depending upon the thickness of the scalp. I recommend the subdermal depo injection technique. Using this technique, is less painful and fewer injections are necessary. Studies have shown that results are improved with getting a series of four monthly injections followed by maintenance. If you are afraid of needles, there is a device called Pronox. It is a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen that provides significant pain relief during the procedure and disappears approximately three to five minutes afterwards. Find a PRP expert. Ask to see photos.

Jacquelline Leva, DO · Answer

So it typically is 6-8mm its a very thin needle used to inject the prp. If you have an aversion to needles I would speaks with your hair loss expect because although topical anesthesia is used some people still feel some level of discomfort despite the topical anesthesia you may need to use non injectable treatments such as FDA approved topical Minoxdil in combination with FDA approved Low light laser therapy by itself and see if that is enough. Frequency for initial treatment is typically 2-4 weeks repeat.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Generally we use very small needles that penetrate under the scalp into the subcutaneous region.  While using small needles means it takes us a little longer to perform the treatment, it is often much more comfortable for patients.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

The needles used can be a 27 or 30 g needle.  These are very sharp and they are placed about 3-4 mm into the scalp depth-wise.  Numbing cream, ice, a zimmer cooler, Pro-Nox nitrous oxide, and digital pressure can be used to make the injections less uncomfortable.  We find placing the PRP about 4 weeks apart for 3-4 months then a touchup in 6 month works well.  Other helpful treatments are topical minoxidil, oral supplements (e.g., viviscal), and a low-level laser helmet (e.g., iGrow).  Best regards.

Paul Fondacaro, MD · Answer

I normally use a tiny needle that penetrates around 3-4 mm into the scalp. This is the ideal area where the hair follicles receive the most benefit. For patients with needle phobias, I find that applying ice prior to injections helps.

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting your question. Sorry to read of your needle phobia.The truth is that each office has different protocols with PRP. My goal is to bathe the hair follicle (the seed from which hair grows) in the growth factors concentrated in PRP.  This is just under the skin (under the dermis). The type of numbing (local vs regional block) and the type of PRP (short vs long acting) will greatly influence your experience and your result. Choose your hair restoration physician carefully!Best of luck from Manhattan!

Ryan Welter, MD · Answer

I use a 4 mm needle that only goes to that depth.  I think you can generally expect about 4-6 mm but it shouldn't be more.  I use High Density PRP and generally do treatments every 12 months.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

The needle is placed about 4-6 mm in the scalp. PrP does not help everyone but if it does it can be repeated every 3-6 months.

How deep does the needle go for PRP in the scalp?

Answers (10)

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