The effects of adding platelet rich plasma to fat grafting to rejuvenate the face

Abstract

Background and objective: Despite refinement in surgical techniques, fat grafting survival is unpredictable, and the resorption rate varies. The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of adding Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) to fat grafting for facial rejuvenationin terms of longevity of the results, complications, and satisfaction rates. Methods: The thigh or lower abdomen was chosen as a donor site for fat graft harvesting using a 10-cc syringe, then washed with saline, processed by low-speed centrifugation, and then inserted into the face with a 1 mm blunt-ended cannula at several points. on several tissue planes. A total of 369 cases treated with autologous fat graft with or without PRP for facial rejuvenation were included in this comparative study. The results were assessed clinically and followed for up to 5 years. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social science SPSS V. 23. Results: The commonest minor complication was fat absorption (27% in group 1 and 11.9% in group 2), no major complications were reported. Adding PRP to the fat graft decreased the need for second session fat grafting from 31.2% to 15.3%. By adding PRP to fat graft, there was a significant increase in the number of highly satisfied patients (from 63.5% to 80.1%). Conclusion: We believe that adding PRP to autologous fat grafting has several advantages for facial rejuvenation with better long-term results, fewer complications, and better patient and surgeon satisfaction.