Five cases of HIV have been reported following a beauty treatment known as the “vampire facelift.” This procedure, also known as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), involves extracting platelets from the patient’s blood through centrifugation and injecting plasma enriched with growth factors into the skin.
The vampire facelift has gained popularity, with celebrities like Kim Kardashian endorsing it. During the treatment, patients may experience a temporary bloody appearance due to small red spots on the face.
The process involves blood collection, centrifugation to separate platelets, isolation of platelets from plasma and red blood cells, preparation of platelet-rich plasma for injection, and subcutaneous injection into desired areas of the face to improve skin tone and reduce wrinkles.
While the treatment is generally considered safe when performed in authorized facilities following safety regulations, there are significant risks associated with unauthorized centers. In the case of the five HIV-infected individuals, the treatment was performed in an unlicensed beauty center that did not adhere to recommended infection control procedures.
These cases highlight the importance of choosing authorized beauty centers and trusting qualified professionals for such procedures. Before undergoing any beauty treatment, it is crucial to check the credentials of the facility and ensure that appropriate safety regulations are followed.