Vampire Facelift - SightMD Skip to main content

What is a Vampire Facelift?

In stories and movies that deal with the supernatural, vampires never age. With that in mind, have you ever heard of a “Vampire Facelift”? Yes, that is the name of this procedure (known as “micro-needling”). If you are looking to cut down wrinkles and restore your face to a more youthful appearance this is an option to consider. The highly qualified surgeons at SightMD are embracing this new non-surgical treatment as a way to provide longer-lasting rejuvenation to the face.

How Does it Work?

A vampire facelift, sometimes called a platelet-rich plasma facelift, is a cosmetic procedure that uses the patient’s blood to potentially fight the signs of aging. After blood is drawn from your arm, the medical professional will separate the platelets from the rest of the blood using a centrifuge (a machine that spins quickly to separate fluids of different densities). The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) will be injected along with hyaluronic acid filler, like Juvederm.

The procedure may:

  • Reduce Wrinkles
  • Plump Skin
  • Diminish Acne Scars
  • Brighten Dull Skin
diagram of the areas of the face that can be targeted with a vampire facelift

It’s safe for people of any age, but if you’re taking a blood thinner, have skin cancer, or any medical condition related to blood, such as HIV or hepatitis C, a vampire facelift isn’t recommended

The efficacy of a vampire facelift is because of plasma, which is yellow. Plasma is protein-rich, and it carries nutrients, protein, and hormones to the rest of the body. Plasma also contains growth factors, which can increase cell turnover, collagen production, and elastin for firmer, younger-looking skin.

What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?

For the last 10 years, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has proven to treat tendon, ligament, and even bone injuries. PRP delivers concentrated platelets to the site of injury. Once delivered it speeds up the healing process and regenerates tissue. Research shows that orthopedic injuries respond very positively to this. Evidence shows that blood vessels, connective tissue, and skin grow and take shape as a result of PRP therapy.

Procedure for a Vampire Facelift

Most vampire facelifts will follow the same steps:

The doctor will first clean your skin then they’ll likely apply a topical numbing cream. After, they’ll draw blood (as little as 2 teaspoons) from your arm. Some doctors may choose to first inject the face with filler, targeting areas with deep creases or wrinkles. The blood will go into a centrifuge separating the PRP from the rest of the blood. Using a small needle, the PRP will be injected back into the face.

Are There any Risks or Side Effects?

Side effects of a vampire facelift should be pretty minimal and may include:

  • swelling
  • itching
  • bruising
  • tingling or a slight burning sensation
  • reactions to hyaluronic acid fillers

What to Expect After a Vampire Facelift

You may notice some redness on your face after a vampire facelift, but the procedure itself is noninvasive, and it should require minimum downtime.

Try to avoid touching your face in the hours after the procedure. If your doctor says it’s OK, you can use an ice pack or take Tylenol to calm swelling and alleviate any pain.

You’ll see immediate plumping results from the filler, and the glow and evenness from PRP will be visible after 2 to 3 weeks. Results aren’t permanent and will typically last for 1 year and as long as 18 months.

Vampire Facelift FAQs

Here are some common Frequently asked questions about Vampire Facelifts at SightMD.

What are the benefits of PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has advantages over many other methods of treatment. The preparation of platelet-rich plasma is quick and efficient resulting in plasma that is available for treatment usage within an hour and is easily administered during the same session. The withdrawn blood continues to assist healing even after application. In addition to micro needling, PRP is compatible with other treatment options, such as laser skin resurfacing or laser skin tightening.

Can I combine treatments?

Micro needling with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) has produced impressive results when performed at SightMD. Depending on what you are looking for – from the reduction of wrinkles, acne scars, or discoloration – you can expect a new, youthful appearance.

Is a Vampire Facelift a true facelift?

While doctors refer to this as a “Vampire Facelift,” this is not a facelift in the traditional sense. A surgical facelift removes excess skin and tightens the muscles and tissues of the face. A Vampire Facelift also smooths and rejuvenates the face. Doctors perform this procedure with noninvasive techniques for a temporary effect.

Contact SightMD today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss your non-surgical cosmetic options at one of our convenient locations!