
A vampire facelift (PRP facelift) has been shown to revitalize your skin without the need for surgery. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with hyaluronic acid filler is injected into the face to create ideal contours, reduce wrinkles and volumize skin. There are some minimal side effects including bruising, swelling and tenderness. These side effects, however, pale in comparison to those of an actual, surgical facelift.
What is a Vampire Facelift?
A PRP facelift, or Vampire Facelift is a procedure to rejuvenate your facial skin without surgery. This procedure uses injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and a temporary dermal filler (hyaluronic acid filler). It’s known as a vampire facelift because the main ingredient in the filler is your blood. You’ll notice immediate results comparing your skin before and after a PRP facelift.
What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-rich plasma is part of your blood. Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood. Platelets are cells within your blood that contain growth factors and help your blood clot to prevent bleeding. PRP is blood that contains only these growth factors, platelets and plasma.
Providers will collect PRP by drawing your blood and putting it through a centrifuge. This is a machine that spins your blood at high speeds. The centrifuge separates your blood into different components: Platelets and plasma, White blood cells, & Red blood cells.
Why choose a vampire facelift?
A vampire facelift is an alternative treatment to a surgical facelift. Platelet-rich plasma has been shown to drive production of new skin cells, encourage the growth of collagen (a protein that provides structure to your skin), and Increase elastin (a protein that allows tissue to stretch).
A PRP facelift may help:
- Brighten Skin
- Add Contour
- Improve Texture
- Reduce Wrinkles
- Make skin look plumper
- Reduce acne scars
What is the difference between a vampire facelift and a vampire facial?
A vampire facelift (PRP facelift) combines injections of platelet-rich plasma with hyaluronic acid filler. During a vampire facial, the provider spreads PRP over the face. Then, they use microneedling or tiny pricks that help your face absorb the plasma. Vampire facials target issues on the surface of your skin, including:
- Acne scars
- Fine lines
- Large pore
- Pigmentation
- Rough texture
How should I prepare for a vampire facelift?
Before a vampire facelift (PRP facelift), you’ll have a consultation with a healthcare provider. They’ll ask about your health history to see if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. A PRP facelift isn’t recommended if you have a blood condition that causes excessive bleeding, have hepatitis C or HIV, have skin cancer, or take a blood thinner.
If you are in fact a good candidate for a PRP facelift, our providers will examine your skin and discuss what you want to achieve from the procedure. If you decide to go ahead with a PRP facelift, we may ask you to:
- Minimize your sun exposure
- Avoid blood thinners for a week before the procedure
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the week before the procedure
- Arrive at your appointment with clean skin and no makeup
What happens during a vampire facelift?
During a vampire facelift procedure, the steps are:
- Apply numbing cream to your face.
- Withdraw blood, usually from your arm.
- Spin the blood in a centrifuge machine to separate the PRP.
- Inject specific areas of your face with the filler.
- Inject PRP into your face using a small needle.
How long does a vampire facelift take?
A PRP facelift usually takes two hours or less.
Is a vampire facelift painful?
You won’t feel pain during a vampire facelift because our providers will numb your skin. You may feel light to mild pain once the numbing cream wears off.
What happens after a vampire facelift?
After a PRP facelift, you may experience mild discomfort and some bruising for 2-5 days. You should be able to go about your day as usual after just a few days.
You can apply ice packs as needed to reduce swelling. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. When you go to bed, elevate your head and try to sleep on your back. Your provider will give you specific instructions to care for your skin after the procedure.
Risks / Benefits of a PRP Facelift
Benefits of a vampire facelift (PRP facelift) include:
- Less recovery time than a traditional surgical facelift
- Less risks than surgery
- Quicker results than with a traditional facelift
- Feeling more confident about your appearance
How successful is a vampire facelift?
Studies are limited when it comes to calculating the success of vampire facelifts. The benefits of PRP may promote improvement in your skin texture and it works as a treatment to reduce wrinkles.
If you choose to try a PRP facelift, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist about the benefits and risks.
What are the side effects of a vampire facelift?
Side effects of a PRP facelift may include:
- Swelling
- Mild pain and tenderness
- Tingling
- Changes to your natural skin tone
- Bruising
- Itching
Some patients experience a reaction to the hyaluronic acid filler, which could include:
- Bumps
- Pain
- Persistent swelling
Look for an experienced provider, like a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, to minimize complications from the procedure.
What is the recovery time for a vampire facelift?
Recovery time after a vampire facelift tends to be short. Your provider will give you instructions to take care of your skin and decrease your recovery time. Some aftercare instructions may include avoiding:
- Sun exposure
- Heavy lifting
- Strenuous exercise
- Using heavy creams or moisturizers on your skin
- Washing your face or wearing makeup
When will I see results after a vampire facelift?
After a PRP / Vampire facelift, you’ll notice plumping from the filler right away. You’ll begin to see smoothing from the PRP typically in about two weeks.
How long do vampire facelift results last?
The results of a vampire facelift can last anywhere between 12 to 18 months. Some providers recommend three sets of injections, one per month for three months, to reach optimal results and prolong the effects.
Reserve a spot for your Vampire Facelift in Charleston Today
If you’re located in Charleston, SC, and are curious about what a Vampire / PRP Facelift can do for you, don’t wait to take the next step. At Monarch Esthetics, we specialize in personalized PRP treatments tailored to your specific goals. Our experienced providers use advanced techniques to ensure optimal results while maintaining a natural look. Whether you're seeking subtle enhancements or full-volume restoration, we’re here to help you feel confident and radiant.
Book your free consultation for a PRP Facelift with Monarch Esthetics in Charleston today and experience the benefits. Rejuvenate naturally, love your results, and enjoy the confidence that comes with looking your absolute best.