A new cosmetic procedure called Selphyl (as in ‘cell fill’…) and dubbed ‘The Vampire Facelift’ is gaining in popularity. This article explains how it works and may help you to decide if it’s right for you.
Selphyl is a patented system that works much like older injectable fillers – Juvederm and Restylane, but it uses a patient’s own blood for the plumping effect. The first step in the procedure is to extract a small amount of the patient’s blood. Then, the platelets and fibrin are separated from the red blood cells. This is then mixed with a synthetic mixture and injected into skin depressions including acne scars, wrinkles and folds. The procedure takes less than 20 minutes and is purported to deliver lasting results with visible effects noted as early as 3 weeks after injection.
How does it work?
Selphyl is thought to work by triggering the production of new cells and collagen. Studies have shown that platelet growth factors are released for up to 7 days, supporting collagen production and reconstruction of the dermal matrix. As little as one treatment may be required.
The introduction of Selphyl coincides perfectly with the latest vampire craze. While there are several tried and tested fillers on the market, this procedure gives consumers another option. Doctors claim that it is associated with less bruising, swelling or lumping associated with traditional fillers. And when it comes to safety, there doesn’t seem to be much of a problem. The procedure has been around for nearly 7 years (used to heal sports injuries), but has only recently found its way to being used as a filler. Selphyl’s cost is comparable to existing fillers.
Check with your dermatologist if the procedure intrigues you.
