Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), discovered in 2001 by French scientist Choukroun and colleagues, is the second generation of platelet concentrates following Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). Both are made from the patient’s venous blood, with differences in extraction methods and composition. PRF is created by low-speed centrifugation of autologous whole blood, inducing coagulation that causes fibrin in the blood to slowly polymerize into a three-dimensional fibrin network, resembling the fibrin found in natural blood clots.

PRF not only acts as a source of growth factors to promote tissue regeneration and repair, but it can also serve as a biological scaffold, providing support to cells, thereby aiding in cell adhesion and growth. Doctors and surgeons widely use PRF in clinical applications such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, sports medicine, and orthopedics.

Understanding Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)?

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate developed as an advanced alternative to Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). French scientist Choukroun discovered PRF in 2001. Researchers derive it from autologous whole blood and process it using a low-speed centrifugation method that preserves natural growth factors.

Unlike PRP, PRF does not require anticoagulants or additives, which makes it a 100% natural and biocompatible option for regenerative therapies. Due to its ability to promote tissue healing, PRF is widely used in:

• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Plastic and reconstructive surgery
• Sports medicine and orthopedics
• Hair restoration and aesthetic medicine

The fibrin network in PRF serves as a biological scaffold that supports cell adhesion and slowly releases growth factors, making it highly effective for wound healing and tissue regeneration.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

PRF has good elasticity and toughness, with a smooth surface. The fibrin within can bind platelets and released growth factors, slowly releasing them to prolong the activity time of the growth factors. Doctors commonly use PRF in periodontal tissue regeneration because it reduces local adverse reactions and enhances infection resistance.

• Dental Implant Placement – PRF promotes faster integration of implants by enhancing bone and gum healing.
• Periodontal Treatments – Used in gum recession surgeries to regenerate soft tissue.
• Tooth Extractions – PRF reduces post-extraction pain and improves healing.
• Bone Grafts & Sinus Lifts – PRF enhances bone regeneration by supplying critical growth factors.

Related Resource: PRP Tubes for Dental Use

Plastic Surgery

The growth factors and cell activators in PRF promote the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of stem cells and the formation of new blood vessels. Therefore, it plays a beneficial role in wound healing. Additionally, doctors can mix PRF with adipocytes in a specific ratio for fat grafting, which improves fat survival rates.

• Facial Rejuvenation – PRF injections stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
• Fat Grafting – PRF enhances fat cell survival, making it effective in lipotransfer procedures.
• Scar Treatment – Helps in the healing of acne scars, surgical scars, and stretch marks.

Related Resource: PRP Tubes for Beauty Treatments

Preparation Method of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

The preparation of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a simple yet precise process that requires no additives or anticoagulants. The key to obtaining a high-quality PRF sample lies in proper blood handling and centrifugation techniques.

Step-by-Step PRF Preparation Process

Blood Collection

• Draw 10 mL of venous blood from the patient using a sterile syringe.
• Immediately transfer the blood into a specialized PRF preparation tube without adding any anticoagulants.

Centrifugation

• Place the PRF tube into a centrifuge machine and spin it at low speed (1300–1500 rpm) for 10-15 minutes.
• This slow spin facilitates the natural clotting process, allowing fibrin to polymerize into a stable three-dimensional structure.

Separation of Components

Once centrifugation is complete, the blood naturally divides into three distinct layers:

• Bottom Layer: Red Blood Cells (RBCs) settle at the bottom.
• Top Layer: Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP) appears as a pale yellow liquid at the top.
• Middle Layer: Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) forms a light yellow gel-like clot between the two.

Extraction and Processing

• Discard the supernatant (PPP) using a sterile pipette or syringe.
• Carefully separate the PRF clot from the RBC layer.
• Place the PRF in a sterile container and allow it to release its serum naturally.
• Optionally, compress the clot using sterile gauze to create a PRF membrane, which can be used in various medical procedures.

Characteristics and Advantages of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate that offers significant advantages over Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). Its ability to promote natural healing without the need for additives makes it a superior choice for various medical and aesthetic applications.

1. Completely Natural – No Additives or Anticoagulants

Unlike PRP, which requires exogenous additives such as anticoagulants (e.g., heparin) or clotting agents (e.g., thrombin), PRF is prepared without any artificial components.

• No risk of immune rejection – Since PRF is derived entirely from the patient’s own blood, the body recognizes it as natural, reducing the risk of an immune reaction.
• Eliminates cross-infection risks – Without external chemicals, PRF preparation is safer and minimizes contamination risks.
• Simplified preparation method – PRF requires only blood collection and low-speed centrifugation, making it easier and more efficient to process compared to PRP.

This natural fibrin clot supports the body’s wound healing process without interfering with normal physiological functions.

2. Enhanced Fibrin Network for Superior Tissue Regeneration

One of the primary differences between PRF and PRP is the structural integrity of the fibrin network.

• In traditional PRP preparation, unpolymerized fibrin remains in Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP) and is often discarded.
• When thrombin is added to PRP to induce clotting, fibrinogen levels decrease, leading to a stiff, less elastic fibrin network.

Why does this matter?
A rigid fibrin network in PRP limits cytokine retention and cell migration, making it less effective for tissue regeneration.

In contrast, PRF forms a mature, flexible fibrin matrix that:

• Supports stem cell adhesion and migration for better wound healing.
• Enhances cytokine retention for prolonged tissue regeneration.
• Mimics the body’s natural healing process, making it more biocompatible.

This structural advantage makes PRF a preferred choice in dentistry, plastic surgery, sports medicine, and orthopedics.

3. Slow and Sustained Release of Growth Factors

Another major advantage of PRF is its ability to release growth factors gradually over time, whereas PRP releases them almost immediately.

In PRP:

• The use of exogenous additives triggers an instantaneous platelet activation.
• This leads to a rapid release of cytokines, causing an early but short-lived healing response.

In PRF:

• The fibrin matrix acts as a natural reservoir that slowly releases growth factors over 7–10 days.
• This prolonged cytokine delivery provides a continuous stimulus for tissue repair and cell proliferation.

Clinical Benefit:
This sustained growth factor release makes PRF more effective for long-term tissue healing, bone regeneration, and wound repair.

Why PRF is Better Than PRP – A Comparative Analysis

PRF’s superior structural and functional benefits make it a better alternative to PRP, particularly in dentistry, plastic surgery, and regenerative medicine.

PRF for Hair Restoration

PRF is revolutionizing hair regrowth treatments, especially for conditions like androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness).

• Stimulates Hair Growth – PRF delivers growth factors directly to hair follicles, reactivating their function.
• Improves Scalp Health – Increases blood circulation and reduces hair thinning.
• Enhances Hair Transplants – PRF is often used post-surgery to improve graft survival rates.

Related Resource: PRF for Hair Treatment

Final Thoughts

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a breakthrough in regenerative medicine, providing a natural, effective, and long-lasting solution for tissue healing. Whether used in dental surgeries, aesthetic treatments, or orthopedic applications, PRF offers remarkable healing potential.

For high-quality PRF tubes and medical supplies, check out Siny Medical for the latest PRF technology.

🔗 Watch PRF in action on YouTube – Siny Medical YouTube Channel
🔗 Learn more about PRF solutions – Siny PRF

FAQ : Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

1. Is PRF safer than PRP?

Yes, PRF is considered safer because it does not contain anticoagulants and has a lower risk of immune reactions.

2. How long does it take to see PRF results?

Most patients notice visible improvements within 4-6 weeks, with continued benefits for several months.

3. Does PRF require multiple treatments?

Yes, depending on the condition being treated, multiple PRF sessions may be needed for optimal results.

4. Can PRF be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely! PRF works well with microneedling, laser therapy, and hair transplants to enhance results.

5. Where can I get PRF treatment?

PRF is offered by dentists, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and hair restoration specialists.