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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.