Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one of the most innovative breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and aesthetics today. Through platelet-rich plasma therapy, your body’s own growth factors are concentrated and reinjected to repair tissue, improve skin tone, and restore hair and joint health. Whether you’re seeking smoother skin, brighter under-eyes, or pain relief, PRP injections offer a natural, science-backed approach to rejuvenation.
However, not everyone is a good candidate for PRP therapy. Understanding PRP contraindications—such as blood disorders, a low platelet count, or certain medical conditions—is essential to ensuring safety and results.
At PRP Treatment Clinic, our master nurse injectors are trained to identify when platelet-rich plasma injections are the right choice and when they aren’t. During your free consultation, we’ll review your health history, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle to determine if PRP is safe and effective for you.
With clinics in Dallas, Austin, Plano, The Woodlands, Argyle, Colleyville, Waxahachie, and Fort Worth, our priority is simple: to help you achieve lasting results safely through the most advanced regenerative treatments available.
What Are PRP Contraindications?
A contraindication is a medical reason why a treatment should be avoided because the risks outweigh the potential benefits. For PRP, contraindications are divided into:
- Absolute Contraindications: PRP is not safe under any circumstance.
- Relative Contraindications: PRP may be possible, but requires caution, modification, or clearance from your doctor.
Absolute Contraindications for PRP
These are conditions where PRP should never be performed:
- Blood Disorders
- Platelet dysfunction syndromes
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
- Hemophilia or clotting disorders
Why: PRP relies on healthy platelets to work. Without them, treatment is ineffective and risky.
- Active Cancer
- Especially hematologic cancers (leukemia, lymphoma).
Why: Growth factors in PRP could theoretically accelerate cancer cell growth.
- Active Infection at the Treatment Site
- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in the skin or scalp.
Why: Injecting PRP into an infected area can worsen the condition.
- Sepsis or Systemic Infection
- Body-wide infection that has entered the bloodstream or affects multiple organs (e.g., pneumonia, kidney infection, sepsis)
Why: Performing PRP can spread pathogens further and cause serious complications.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Current pregnancy or active breastfeeding period
Why: There isn’t enough research yet to confirm safety..
Relative Contraindications for PRP
These don’t always rule out treatment, but require careful evaluation:
- Uncontrolled Diabetes
- Elevated blood sugar levels that affect circulation and immune response
Why: Can lead to poor wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma
Why: May interfere with the body’s natural healing response; medical clearance is recommended.
- Recent Corticosteroid Injections
- Steroid injections within the past 4–6 weeks
Why: Corticosteroids can suppress the healing response that PRP depends on. A waiting period of at least 4–6 weeks is advised.
- Blood-Thinning Medications
- Drugs such as warfarin, Plavix, or high-dose aspirin
Why: Increase the risk of bruising and bleeding; consult your prescribing physician before proceeding.
- Low Hemoglobin or Anemia
- Reduced red blood cell count or oxygen-carrying capacity
Why: PRP requires a healthy blood draw and adequate platelet concentration for best results.
- Chronic Liver Disease
- Conditions affecting liver function or clotting factors
Why: May impair platelet function and reduce plasma quality, limiting treatment effectiveness.
Why Saying “No” Earns Trust
Patients often tell us they feel more confident choosing PRP Treatment Clinic because we’re transparent about limitations. Unlike some medspas that “push” treatments, we:
- Put your safety first.
- Avoid false promises.
- Offer safer alternatives when PRP isn’t ideal.
That honesty builds the foundation of long-term relationships and results you can trust.
Safer Alternatives When PRP Isn’t Right
If PRP isn’t safe or recommended, you still have options.
For Skin Rejuvenation
- Medical-Grade Skincare Programs: Retinoids, antioxidants, peptides.
- Microneedling without PRP: Still boosts collagen without blood products.
- Laser Treatments: Resurfacing or tightening lasers can improve texture and wrinkles.
- Dermal Fillers: For patients not suited to PRP, hyaluronic acid fillers offer safe volume restoration.
For Hair Loss
- Topical Minoxidil (Rogaine).
- Prescription Oral Medications (finasteride for men, spironolactone for women).
- Low-Level Laser Therapy: FDA-cleared caps and combs stimulate follicles.
For Joint Pain
- Physical Therapy for strengthening and flexibility.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections (“gel shots”) for knee arthritis.
- Corticosteroid Injections for short-term inflammation relief.
- Lifestyle Modifications, including weight management and activity adjustments.
Why Master Nurse Injectors Make a Difference
Every provider at PRP Treatment Clinic is a master nurse injector. What does this mean for you?
- Advanced Training: Beyond basic aesthetics, our injectors are trained in anatomy, complications, and patient safety.
- Patient Screening: We know how to spot contraindications quickly.
- Custom Care: We can adjust protocols for borderline cases safely.
- Ethics First: If PRP isn’t right, we’ll recommend another path.
Free Consultations: Your Safety Net
We offer free consultations because we believe every patient deserves to:
- Ask questions without pressure.
- Share their medical history in confidence.
- Receive an honest recommendation.
- Leave knowing whether PRP—or another option—is right for them.
Schedule your free consult today: Dallas | Austin | Plano | The Woodlands | Argyle | Colleyville | Waxahachie | Fort Worth
PRP Contraindications: Texas Patient Examples
- Case 1: A 52-year-old Dallas patient with poorly controlled diabetes wanted PRP for under-eye hollows. We recommended delaying PRP until her blood sugar stabilized and suggested dermal fillers in the meantime.
- Case 2: A 39-year-old Austin patient on blood thinners for a heart condition sought PRP hair restoration. After consultation with her cardiologist, we recommended low-level laser therapy instead.
- Case 3: A 64-year-old Fort Worth patient with knee arthritis had a steroid injection 2 weeks prior. We advised waiting 6 weeks before considering PRP for maximum benefit.
In every case, safety came first—and patients appreciated our honesty.
FAQs About PRP Contraindications
Can I do PRP if I’m pregnant?
No. We recommend waiting until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
If I have anemia, can I still do PRP?
Mild anemia may still allow PRP, but we recommend blood work first.
I had a steroid injection recently. How long should I wait?
At least 4–6 weeks before PRP.
Can I stop blood thinners for PRP?
Only if cleared by your prescribing doctor. Never discontinue medications without medical approval.
What if I have lupus or an autoimmune condition?
PRP may not be effective and could pose risks. We evaluate these on a case-by-case basis with your physician.
Cost Transparency
Because safety screenings are included in your free consultation, there are no hidden fees if PRP isn’t the right fit.
Typical costs when eligible:
- PRP for face: $600–$1,000/session
- PRP for hair: $700–$1,200/session
- PRP for joints: $700–$1,500/session
Why Patients Across Texas Choose PRP Treatment Clinic
- Master nurse injectors who know when to say yes—and when to say no.
- Free consultations to evaluate safety and candidacy.
- 8 convenient Texas locations to serve you closer to home.
- Transparent care: No gimmicks, no overselling.
- Alternative options when PRP isn’t ideal.
Take the Next Step
PRP is powerful, but it isn’t for everyone. At PRP Treatment Clinic, our first priority is protecting your health. If you’re not a candidate, we’ll be upfront about it—and help you find a safer path to your goals.
Book your free consultation today at our Dallas PRP clinic or visit your nearest location: Austin, Plano, The Woodlands, Argyle, Colleyville, Waxahachie, Fort Worth.
With honesty, expertise, and care, we’ll guide you to the right solution—even if that solution isn’t PRP.
