Problems and Solutions for Platelet-Rich Plasma in Facial Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review
October 2018
in “
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
”
TLDR PRP shows promise for improving facial wrinkles, skin elasticity, and hair growth, but more research is needed to standardize its use and understand its effects.
The systematic review from 2018 analyzed the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in facial rejuvenation, including its effects on aging skin and hair loss. The review included 108 articles, with clinical studies showing PRP's effectiveness in improving facial wrinkles, skin elasticity, and hair growth. For example, one study with 10 patients reported a significant reduction in underarm dark circles and wrinkles after PRP injections, and another with 23 alopecia patients found increased hair number and density. Despite these positive outcomes, the review highlighted issues such as the lack of standardized PRP preparation methods and inconsistent results across studies. It also mentioned the need for more research to understand PRP's mechanisms and to establish standardized protocols. The most severe complication reported was irreversible blindness due to an injection error. The review concluded that PRP has potential benefits for tissue regeneration and facial rejuvenation but called for further research to optimize its clinical application.
