Microneedling with PRP (Vampire Facial)

Microneedling with PRP — also known as the Vampire Facial — at Pacific Plastic Surgery Group in San Francisco uses a microneedling device to create controlled micro-channels in the skin while platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived from the patient's own blood is applied topically or injected, delivering concentrated growth factors directly into the dermis. Used to improve skin texture, fine lines, acne scars, and overall skin quality with no downtime beyond temporary redness.

The microneedling with PRP service at Pacific Plastic Surgery Group combines two complementary skin rejuvenation mechanisms in a single session, performed within a board-certified plastic surgeon's practice in San Francisco. Microneedling — also called collagen induction therapy — uses a device equipped with fine sterile needles that create thousands of precisely controlled micro-injuries in the skin as the device is passed across the treatment area. These micro-channels trigger the skin's natural wound-healing cascade: growth factor release, fibroblast activation, and new collagen and elastin synthesis. The controlled nature of microneedling damage — creating only superficial punctures without disrupting the epidermis as a whole — allows the skin to heal rapidly (redness typically resolves within 24–48 hours) while still stimulating meaningful collagen remodeling beneath. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) enhances this response by delivering an autologous (from the patient's own blood) concentrated bolus of platelets, growth factors — including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) — directly into the micro-channels opened by the needles. These growth factors accelerate the healing and remodeling process, increase collagen deposition, and may enhance skin hydration and tone. The process requires a small blood draw, centrifugation to separate the platelet-rich fraction, and application during or after the microneedling procedure. The popular term 'Vampire Facial' reflects the PRP step. Results improve progressively over four to six weeks as new collagen matures; a series of three sessions spaced four to six weeks apart is a typical starting protocol for acne scarring or general textural improvement. Standard microneedling without PRP is also available. Located at 77 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco.