What is Plasmapheresis?
Plasmapheresis is an advanced medical procedure that allows the filtration and purification of blood plasma, the liquid part of the blood where toxins, metabolic waste, and inflammatory molecules circulate. Through this technique, at Clínica Planas we are able to eliminate harmful substances that the body is unable to remove on its own, promoting optimal health and enhancing the effectiveness of other regenerative medicine treatments.
This deep purification helps to reduce chronic low-grade inflammation, improve cellular energy, and optimize the overall functioning of the body.
Among the elements that plasmapheresis helps to remove are:
- Macromolecules and altered proteins that disrupt metabolic balance.
- Microplastics now present in the blood of most people.
- Pesticides and chemical residues from food.
- Environmental toxins inhaled daily (pollution, heavy metals).
- Glycated proteins, responsible for inflammatory processes and accelerated aging.
Overall, plasmapheresis represents the “phase zero” of longevity, a key tool for those seeking to improve their health, well-being, and the effectiveness of regenerative treatments.
What is plasmapheresis used for?
The main goal of plasmapheresis is to detoxify the body, reduce chronic low-grade inflammation, and optimize the function of vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, nervous system, and immune system.
It is a key tool both in regenerative medicine and healthy longevity, as well as a complementary treatment for autoimmune and metabolic diseases.
Healthy longevity
Plasmapheresis is one of the pillars of healthy longevity programs. By eliminating microplastics, pesticides, inflammatory macromolecules, and other environmental toxins accumulated in the plasma, we achieve:
- A significant reduction in chronic low-grade inflammation.
- Improved cellular function and regenerative capacity.
- Enhanced mental clarity, energy, and quality of life.
- Healthier, slower aging with greater overall well-being.
At Clínica Planas, plasmapheresis is integrated as the phase zero of longevity, preparing the body to respond better to regenerative treatments such as Time Machine or hyperbaric chamber.
Kidney and liver diseases
The liver and kidneys are the main organs responsible for detoxifying the body. When they become overloaded, symptoms, inflammation, and reduced metabolic performance may appear.
Plasmapheresis helps to:
- Reduce liver overload , by removing toxins that would otherwise pass through the liver.
- Support the liver’s secondary detoxification pathways (acetylation, methylation, glycation), preventing exhaustion
- Improve kidney function by removing substances that the kidneys cannot always filter efficiently
The result?
A cleaner organism, less burdened organs, and an overall improvement in health.
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Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks myelin, the protective layer of neurons. Plasmapheresis is particularly useful because it allows:
- Removal of macromolecules and autoantibodies that trigger immune attacks.
- Reduction of inflammation and improvement of neurological function.
- Decreased intensity of relapses and faster recovery.
Although it does not replace other treatments, it is an effective complementary therapy in the comprehensive management of multiple sclerosis.
Myasthenia gravis
Myasthenia gravis is another autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness by interfering with communication between nerves and muscles.
Plasmapheresis helps to:
- Remove the antibodies responsible for muscle weakness.
- Improve muscle strength and functionality.
- Reduce symptoms during crisis or worsening phases.
While it does not replace other treatments, it is a key therapeutic tool in the integrated management of this condition.
Guillain-Barré syndrome
Guillain-Barré syndrome affects peripheral nerves, causing inflammation and, in many cases, progressive paralysis.
Plasmapheresis is one of the reference treatments because it allows:
- Removal of pathological antibodies attacking the nerves.
- Slowing of disease progression.
- Faster and more complete recovery.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that generates immune complexes capable of damaging organs and tissues.
Plasmapheresis helps to:
- Eliminate these immune complexes from the plasma
- Reduce flare-ups and systemic inflammation.
- Improve the patient’s overall condition as part of combined therapy.
Although it is not a definitive cure, its detoxifying effect provides significant clinical benefits.
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How is plasmapheresis performed?
Plasmapheresis requires the placement of two intravenous lines, usually one in each arm. One line serves as the outflow, and the other as the return, creating a continuous and stable circuit that allows safe and efficient blood processing.
Through the outflow line, blood is directed to our state-of-the-art plasmapheresis technology, an innovative system that not only filters but separates plasma through controlled centrifugation. This is essential because it:
- Preserves cellular integrity, avoiding cell damage associated with traditional filtration methods.
- Optimizes plasma purification, enhancing the removal of unwanted substances
Once purified, the blood is returned to the body through the return line.
Using two venous access points allows the treatment to be faster and more comfortable, as the circuit works continuously. Unlike single-line systems—which alternate extraction and reinfusion and double the treatment time—our technology maintains constant flow, significantly reducing session duration.
At Clínica Planas, we work with one of the most advanced plasmapheresis machines on the market, recognized for its precision, cellular preservation, and safety.
Benefits and results of the treatment
Plasmapheresis is designed to improve overall health by eliminating harmful substances present in the plasma.
Key benefits include:
- Reduced toxic load: plasma purification creates a cleaner internal environment.
- Progressive improvement in overall well-being: not an immediate painkiller, but over time patients notice increased vitality, better stress tolerance, and greater resistance to fatigue.
- Reduction of chronic low-grade inflammation: a key factor in healthy longevity and the prevention of inflammatory conditions.
As inflammation decreases and the body functions in a more balanced environment, the sense of well-being increases naturally and sustainably.
Risks and side effects: how to prevent them
Plasmapheresis is a safe procedure with a very low side-effect profile when performed by experienced professionals.
The most common side effect is a mild bruise at the venipuncture site, typical of any intravenous procedure.
To minimize risks:
- The procedure is performed by highly trained professionals.
- Sterile materials and precise venipuncture techniques are used.
Overall, tolerance is excellent and no recovery time is usually required.
F.A.Q.
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How long does a plasmapheresis session last?
Session duration depends on individual factors such as weight, height, and hematocrit. In general, each session lasts between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes, with a maximum of approximately 2 hours. Recovery is immediate: you can resume your normal activities the same day without rest or special care.
Recovery is immediate: you can resume your normal activities the same day without rest or special care. -
How much does a plasmapheresis session cost?
The cost of a plasmapheresis session may vary depending on the personalized treatment plan recommended by the medical team and whether it is combined with other regenerative medicine therapies.
At Clínica Planas, we follow a fully individualized approach, so the final cost is confirmed after the initial medical assessment.
As a general reference, the indicative price of one plasmapheresis session at Clínica Planas Barcelona is €4,500.
Our team will be happy to assist you with personalized guidance or answer any questions. -
What can I expect after plasmapheresis?
After treatment, the body begins a progressive improvement process driven by two main effects:
● Reduction of chronic low-grade inflammation, essential for metabolic health and longevity
● Elimination of toxins and pro-inflammatory substances from the plasma
Results are noticeable in the medium to long term, with improved well-being, increased energy, and better tolerance to daily stress and fatigue. -
How long do the effects of plasmapheresis last?
The duration of benefits largely depends on the patient’s lifestyle. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary habits, and poor nutrition can shorten the effects.
In general, it is recommended to undergo one plasmapheresis session per year to maintain optimal detoxification and balanced health.
