Aspen’s Clinic for Therapeutic Plasma Exchange
At the Aspen Institute for Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, longevity is not approached as a trend. We are committed to advanced, data-driven care that helps you feel, function, and perform at your highest level over time.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) represents one of the most innovative tools available today for individuals seeking to optimize health, reduce systemic burden, and support long-term vitality. This is advanced care designed not just to manage symptoms, but to help you operate at a higher level—physically, cognitively, and metabolically.
What Is Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE)?
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange is a medical procedure that works directly with your blood to help remove substances that may be contributing to inflammation, dysfunction, or disease.
During TPE, your blood is gently drawn through a small IV line and circulated through an FDA-cleared apheresis device. This device separates your plasma (the liquid portion of your blood) from your blood cells.
Your plasma can carry inflammatory proteins, toxins, metabolic waste, and immune-related compounds. During treatment, this plasma is removed and replaced with a purified protein solution, typically albumin combined with saline, to help restore balance within your circulation.
Your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are then safely returned to your body.
Throughout the procedure, a trained nurse continuously monitors your vital signs and comfort to ensure a safe and controlled experience. Most patients spend their session relaxing—reading, listening to music, or resting—and are able to return to normal activities later the same day.
As one patient shared:
“Watching all my bloodwork numbers move into or towards the green gives me a lot of confidence in what I’m doing with TPE.”
How TPE Supports Your Health
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange has been used in clinical medicine for decades and is recognized by the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) for treating a range of immune, neurological, and metabolic conditions.
In recent years, it has also gained attention for its potential role in longevity and performance-focused care.
At its core, TPE works by helping to “reset” aspects of your internal environment. By removing circulating inflammatory and potentially harmful substances, the body is given an opportunity to rebalance and function more efficiently.
Patients often report feeling clearer, lighter, and more energized following treatment.
TPE may help support:
- Reduced chronic inflammation and immune overactivation
- Improved cellular repair and regenerative processes
- Enhanced metabolic efficiency
- Greater mental clarity and energy levels
- Overall vitality and resilience
Rather than targeting a single symptom, TPE works systemically—supporting the interconnected systems that influence how you feel on a daily basis.
Conditions and Concerns TPE May Support
While TPE is widely used in clinical settings for specific diagnoses, it is also increasingly being explored in integrative and longevity-focused care.
TPE has been used or studied in relation to symptoms and conditions such as:
- Long COVID
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)
- Chronic pain
- Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes
- Post-exertional malaise (PEM)
- Lyme disease
- Mold toxicity
- Heavy metal exposure (including mercury)
- Environmental toxin burden, including microplastics
In addition, many patients pursue TPE as part of a broader wellness and longevity strategy—aimed at optimizing internal balance before more serious dysfunction develops.
What to Expect During Treatment
TPE sessions at our Aspen clinic typically last between two to three hours.
During your session:
- A small IV line is placed for blood circulation
- Blood is gently processed through the apheresis device
- Plasma is separated and replaced with albumin solution
- Blood cells are returned to your body
- Your vital signs are continuously monitored
The environment is calm and supportive. Many patients choose to relax with a book, music, or guided rest.
Comfort measures may include:
- Blankets and pillows
- Adjustable seating
- Temperature-controlled infusion
- Optional entertainment or personal devices
This is a treatment designed not just for effectiveness—but for an elevated patient experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many treatments will I need?
Your treatment plan is personalized based on your condition, biomarkers, and goals.
Most patients experience the greatest benefit from a series of treatments, as results tend to be cumulative. Some individuals complete an initial protocol, while others continue with maintenance sessions every few months to sustain results.
Is TPE safe?
Yes. TPE has been used safely in hospitals and specialty clinics for over 50 years.
Most patients experience no complications. Mild, temporary effects may include:
- Lightheadedness
- Tingling sensations
- Feeling cold during infusion
- Mild fatigue or stomach discomfort
These effects typically resolve quickly. Each session is closely monitored by a trained apheresis nurse to ensure safety and comfort.
Will it hurt?
Aside from a brief needle insertion for IV access, most patients describe TPE as painless and well-tolerated.
A local numbing agent is often used to minimize discomfort, and the replacement fluid is warmed to maintain body temperature throughout the procedure.
What is albumin—and why is it used?
Albumin is a naturally occurring protein in human plasma that helps maintain fluid balance and transport nutrients.
During TPE, it is used as a replacement fluid to restore plasma volume and help stabilize your internal environment. The albumin used is human-derived and meets strict safety and screening standards.
How should I prepare?
Preparation is simple:
- Stay well hydrated the day before
- Eat a light meal prior to treatment
- Wear loose or short-sleeved clothing
- Avoid over-hydrating immediately before your session
Your care team will provide detailed instructions tailored to your treatment plan.
What should I expect after treatment?
Most patients return to normal activities within 24 hours.
On the day of treatment:
- Avoid strenuous activity
- Focus on hydration and balanced nutrition
- Rest if needed
Some patients undergo follow-up lab testing to track improvements over time.
Does insurance cover TPE?
Coverage varies depending on your diagnosis and provider.
Many patients pursue TPE as part of a self-pay longevity or concierge care program. In some cases, documentation may be provided for potential reimbursement.
What Makes This Experience Different
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange at the Aspen Institute is delivered in a setting designed for performance-driven individuals who expect more from their care. This is not a hospital environment, but a refined, outpatient experience that integrates advanced apheresis technology, personalized medical oversight, a calm and restorative atmosphere, and a clear focus on both outcomes and patient experience.
Under the guidance of Dr. Julian Gershon, each patient benefits from a highly individualized approach, where TPE can be incorporated into a broader, custom wellness plan that may include regenerative therapies, hormone optimization, metabolic support, and other advanced treatments. You are not simply receiving a procedure.
You are engaging in a comprehensive strategy designed to help you perform at a higher level, recover more efficiently, and sustain your health for the long term.
Get Started with Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Aspen
If you’re ready to take a proactive approach to your health, Therapeutic Plasma Exchange offers a powerful way to support your body at a deeper level.
At the Aspen Institute for Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, you’ll work with a team that understands longevity, performance, and precision care.
Become a patient and experience what advanced medicine can look like when it’s tailored entirely to you. Schedule your consultation today and discover how Therapeutic Plasma Exchange can support your next level of health and vitality.
