How to prepare for a PRP procedure

Written By Jessica Norton
Medspa Services in Windsor, CO, 80550

At Aligned Aesthetics, we want you to get the most from your PRP treatment. Optimizing your body ahead of time helps ensure the healthiest, most vibrant platelets—and a smoother recovery. Here’s how to prepare and what to avoid before and after your visit:

Hydrate Generously: Your blood draws more easily and your plasma separates more efficiently when you're well hydrated. Aim for:

  • At least 64 oz of water the day before and the day of your treatment

  • Sugar-free electrolyte water for enhanced cellular hydration

Boost Platelet Quality Naturally: The healthier your platelets, the more effective your results. Support your body by:

  • Eating a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet: think leafy greens, berries, wild-caught fish, and healthy fats

  • Getting 7–9 hours of sleep each night, especially in the days leading up to your appointment

  • Avoiding alcohol for at least 72 hours prior and at least 24 hours after your appointment.

  • Quit smoking if applicable, as it reduces platelet concentration and oxygen delivery.

Skip These Medications: Some medications and supplements can thin your blood or interfere with platelet signaling:

  • Avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen) for 5–7 days before and after your PRP treatment. They may blunt the very healing signals we want PRP to stimulate.

  • If needed, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a alternative for discomfort as they do not interfere with platelet activity.

Avoid Icing After Your Procedure: It might seem counterintuitive, but do not ice the treated area after PRP. Icing can blunt the body's natural inflammatory response which is critical for platelet activation and tissue regeneration.

Minimize Bruising: While some bruising is normal, these simple steps can help reduce your chances:

  • Avoid alcohol and high-dose vitamin E for at least 48 hours before treatment.

  • Pause blood-thinning supplements, such as flax or fish oil, garlic and ginkgo, for 3–5 days prior (with your provider’s approval).

  • Take arnica or bromelain (a key enzyme in pineapple) for several days before and after your treatment.

Citation:

■ Boswell SG, Cole BJ, Sundman EA, Karas V, Fortier LA. Platelet-rich plasma: a milieu of bioactive factors. Arthroscopy. 2012;28(3):429-439. doi:10.1016/j.arthro.2011.10.018

■ Dragoo JL, Braun HJ, Durham JL, Ridley BA, Odegaard JI, Luong R. Comparison of the effects of corticosteroids and NSAIDs on the biologic activity of platelet-rich plasma. Am J Sports Med. 2012;40(6):1272-1278. doi:10.1177/0363546512442334

■ Sundman EA, Cole BJ, Fortier LA. Growth factor and catabolic cytokine concentrations are influenced by the cellular composition of platelet-rich plasma. Am J Sports Med. 2011;39(10):2135-2140. doi:10.1177/0363546511417792

Jessica Norton
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