Aging gracefully is something many of us aspire to, but living a well-lived life often involves expressions that result in subtle signs of aging over time. You may have noticed this around the eyes, and specifically under the eyes where the skin thins with age. The lower eyelids are particularly prone to developing fine lines, wrinkles, and hollows. While traditional hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane have been popular treatments for softening the age at the eyes, a newer, more natural option is gaining traction: platelet-rich fibrin (PRF).

In this blog, we’ll explore what PRF is, how it works, who can benefit from it, the treatment process, and why it might be a better choice when compared to traditional dermal fillers.

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate, similar to the well-known Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) but with a few key differences that make it superior for certain applications. PRF is derived from your blood, which is centrifuged at a lower speed than PRP, resulting in a product that contains a higher concentration of platelets, leukocytes (white blood cells), and a fibrin matrix. This fibrin matrix acts as a scaffold, allowing the slow release of growth factors and cytokines that promote tissue regeneration and healing over a longer period.

The high concentration of growth factors in PRF stimulates collagen production, improves blood flow, and enhances tissue regeneration. These benefits make PRF particularly effective for rejuvenating the delicate skin around the lower eyelids, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and hollowing, and giving a more youthful appearance.

Who is a Good Candidate for PRF for Aging Lower Eyelids?

PRF is suitable for individuals who:

-Are beginning to notice signs of aging around the eyes, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and hollowing.
-Prefer a natural treatment using their biological material. 
-Are looking for a procedure with minimal risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects.
-Have realistic expectations about the outcomes and are willing to undergo multiple sessions for optimal results.

PRF is ideal for those who want a subtle, natural improvement rather than the more dramatic changes that fillers or surgery might offer.

Read More: Lunchtime Lids: Effortless Eyelid Rejuvenation

The PRF Treatment Process

The PRF treatment process is straightforward and minimally invasive. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation: During your initial consultation, your practitioner will assess your lower eyelids and discuss your goals and expectations. They will also review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for PRF. At our practice, our Nurse Practitioner, Laura Stelk, facilitates your consultation and PRF treatments.

Blood Draw: On the day of the procedure, Laura will draw a small amount of your blood (typically 10-20 ml) from your arm to separate the PRF.

Centrifugation: The vial of blood is placed in a centrifuge and spun at a low speed to separate the PRF from the other components.

Application: The PRF is carefully drawn into syringes and injected into the areas around the lower eyelids that need rejuvenation. Because it’s derived from your own blood, the risk of complications is minimal.

Duration And Results

From start to finish, a PRF treatment takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including the time needed for the blood draw and centrifugation. You may experience mild swelling or bruising around the injection sites, but these side effects typically resolve within a few days.

Results from PRF are not immediate but develop gradually over weeks as the growth factors stimulate collagen production and tissue regeneration. Most patients start to see improvements within 2-4 weeks, with optimal results visible after 2-3 months. Multiple sessions (typically 2-3) spaced a few weeks apart are often recommended for the best results.

In conclusion, PRF is a promising and natural alternative for rejuvenating aging lower eyelids. By harnessing the body’s own regenerative capabilities, PRF offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for those seeking a refreshed and youthful appearance at the eyelids. Always consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if PRF is the right choice for you and to ensure the best possible results.

Laura Stelk, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Laura Stelk is our Advanced Practice Nurse Injector specializing in nonsurgical rejuvenation of the face and body.  Get in touch with Laura to schedule your complimentary consultation for PRF eyelid rejuvenation.