Injectable platelet-rich fibrin for perioral rejuvenation as assessed by 3D lip volume imaging.

BACKGROUND: Various injectable autologous platelet aggregate preparations have been developed and used for facial rejuvenation. Limited evidence exists for the use of these for augmentation of the lip. OBJECTIVES: This prospective, uncontrolled, single-center study evaluated the qualitative and quantitative effects of an injectable platelet-rich fibrin preparation (known as i-PRF+) for lip augmentation. PATIENTS/METHODS: PRF® PROCESS system technology was used to prepare i-PRF+ supernatant. Ten healthy females were included in the study and received a single intradermal injection of i-PRF+ in the upper and lower lips (5 ml in each quadrant, total ~2 ml). Participants were followed for 3 months post-procedure. The efficacy of the procedure was assessed qualitatively by a subjective patient-reported outcome (FACE-Q) assessment and quantitatively by objective 3D skin surface volume analysis (ProFace® ) at baseline and after 3 months. RESULTS: FACE-Q scales that measure satisfaction with skin and lip showed a statistically significant improvement from baseline (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). Satisfaction with lip lines showed a numerical improvement with mean total scores for adverse effect scales related to the skin and lips reduced at 2 weeks post-procedure (p = 0.03 and p = 0.13, respectively). Overall lip volume at 3-month follow-up was unchanged (p = 0.11). The treatment was well tolerated with only minor adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: A single session of i-PRF+ injections resulted in significant lip rejuvenation at 3-month follow-up, shown by improved patient-reported outcome measure. No significant change in lip volume was observed.