Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses your body’s own healing powers for rejuvenation. It’s a nonsurgical procedure that relies on your own blood to stimulate collagen and ramp up healing.
One popular application of PRP is for under-eye rejuvenation. PRP injections under the eyes can lessen the appearance of dark circles and that crepey skin texture that can develop over time. The goal is to improve skin texture and tone, leaving the under-eye area looking brighter and more youthful.
This article will break down everything you need to know about platelet rich plasma under eyes before and after treatment, including what to expect, the benefits, and important things to consider.
Understanding PRP: The Science Behind the Treatment
Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is an anti-aging treatment that harnesses the healing power of your own blood to rejuvenate your skin.
What is PRP?
A trained professional draws a small amount of your blood, then spins it in a centrifuge to isolate and concentrate the platelets in your plasma.
The resulting platelet-rich plasma is packed with growth factors, platelets, mesenchymal stem cells, and cytokines, which all work together to repair tissues in the treatment area. They also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins that give skin its youthful bounce and firmness.
How PRP Works for Under-Eye Rejuvenation
When injected into the under-eye area, PRP stimulates collagen production and tissue repair, leading to increased skin volume and elasticity.
This treatment targets common under-eye concerns like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines, improving skin texture and tone to create a brighter, more youthful appearance.
PRP Under-Eye Treatment: What to Expect
If you’re considering PRP treatment for your under-eye area, here’s a sense of what to expect.
The Procedure
The process usually begins with a blood draw, from which platelet-rich plasma is isolated. That plasma is then injected directly into the skin under your eyes.
A blood draw and injections can be uncomfortable, so most practitioners apply a numbing cream to the area before beginning the procedure.
PRP Under Eyes Before-and-After: Specific FAQs
Here are some things to keep in mind as you’re considering PRP for the under-eye area:
What changes can I expect to see?
Most people report that PRP treatment reduces the darkness and puffiness under their eyes. Patients often say they look more refreshed after the procedure.
When will I see results?
It varies, but most patients report that they see some improvement within a few weeks. The full effect of PRP therapy becomes obvious after a couple of months, as the body produces more collagen. As the collagen regenerates, the skin looks better.
Are the results permanent?
Unfortunately, no. You’ll likely need maintenance treatments to sustain the results over the long term.
Before-and-after results: Setting realistic expectations
Before-and-after photos can give you a general idea of what platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment can achieve, but it’s important to understand the range of possible results.
Everyone’s different, and your results will depend on individual factors like skin type, age, and lifestyle. Goals generally include improvements in skin tone and texture, along with a reduction in dark circles under the eyes.
Results often last for 6 to 12 months, depending on your age and how well your body responds to the treatment.
To get the most out of your PRP treatment, you’ll want to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The better care you take of yourself, the longer the benefits of PRP are likely to last.
Safety, Risks, and Candidacy
As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to consider whether you’re a good candidate for PRP injections, what the risks are, and how to choose a practitioner.
Are you a good candidate for PRP treatment?
Whether or not PRP injections are right for you depends on your overall health, the condition of your skin, and the type of under-eye issues you’re hoping to correct. Not everyone is an ideal candidate, and a consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential to help you decide.
What are the risks and side effects?
Right after treatment, you may notice some redness or swelling, which is considered a normal part of the healing process. Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site are common.
More serious side effects are rare, but they can happen. These include infection or tissue damage. It’s important to ensure that a qualified professional performs the treatment in a sterile environment to minimize these risks.
Why is it important to choose a qualified practitioner?
The experience and skill of the practitioner performing the PRP treatment can have a big impact on the results you see. Choosing a practitioner with the right training and experience can help minimize the risk of complications.
Additional considerations: Cost and maintenance
Cost
The cost of PRP injections under the eyes can vary widely, depending on your provider and the number of sessions you undergo.
Keep in mind that you’ll likely need multiple sessions to see the full effects. Be sure to factor those costs in as you weigh your options.
Post-treatment care
Following your practitioner’s post-treatment instructions on skincare, sun protection, and other aftercare practices can help you get the most out of your PRP treatments.
Proper aftercare is essential to achieving and maintaining the best possible results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see PRP results under eyes?
Patience is key! You likely won’t see immediate results. The collagen remodeling process takes time. Most people start noticing improvements in skin texture and dark circles within a few weeks, with optimal results appearing after a few months. Multiple sessions are often recommended for the best outcome.
Is PRP under eyes worth it?
That’s a personal decision. PRP can be a worthwhile investment for those seeking a natural approach to under-eye rejuvenation. If you’re looking to reduce dark circles, improve skin texture, and minimize fine lines, PRP may be a good option. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that results vary.
What are the side effects of PRP under the eyes?
Common side effects are mild and temporary. You might experience redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites. These usually resolve within a few days. More serious complications are rare but can include infection or nerve damage.
How painful is PRF?
Most people report minimal discomfort during PRF injections. A topical numbing cream is usually applied beforehand to minimize any pain. You might feel a slight pinching or pressure sensation during the procedure, but it’s generally well-tolerated.
What are the risks of PRF under eyes?
Like any injectable procedure, PRF carries some risks. These include infection, bruising, swelling, pain, and rare instances of nerve damage or vascular occlusion. Choosing an experienced and qualified practitioner is crucial to minimizing these risks.
Key Takeaways
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) under-eye treatments harness your body’s own healing abilities to brighten and refresh the area under your eyes for a more youthful look. It’s an appealing choice for many people seeking rejuvenation.
While PRP is considered safe and effective, it’s important to go into it with realistic expectations. Be sure you’re aware of the possible side effects and risks. And most of all, seek guidance from a qualified and experienced practitioner.
If you’re curious whether PRP injections are right for you, consult with a provider to learn more.