'Vampire Facelift' Uses Patient's Blood To Look Younger

DENVER (CBS4) - Halloween is the perfect day for a "vampire facelift." It may sound spooky, but it's an actual cosmetic procedure to treat wrinkles.

CBS4 health specialist Kathy Walsh sat in on the treatment on Monday.

"It wasn't done by Count Dracula, but an actual medical doctor," Walsh said. "I'm told mummies, daddies and others are finding this takes some of the bite out of aging."

Vampires never age. Now doctors are cashing in on the craze using true blood to combat wrinkles. The patients are willing victims.

"Because it's an opportunity to enhance my appearance," said Karen Maseck, a nurse for Dr. Steve Zakany.

Maseck tried a procedure known as the "Vampire Facelift," because it involves the patient's blood.

Maseck had blood drawn from her arm. It was then spun in a centrifuge to separate out the platelets. They are then injected into the face with the idea of stimulating new collagen growth.

"Especially around my mouth and get rid of some of the pesky lines, wrinkles," Maseck said.

"I'm not going to say 'wrinkle free,' but wrinkles would definitely be reduced," Zakany said.

The so called "selphyl system" is touted by its makers as all natural. They claim it's quick, safe and not painful.

Zakany says Maseck should start seeing results in three weeks and they'll last.

"The manufacturer says at least a year. I think probably closer to 18 months," Zakany said.

Zakany says the procedure can cost from $800 to $1,200.