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5 Differences Between PRP vs Botox [Expert’s Opinion]

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and Botox are both popular cosmetic treatments that can improve the appearance of specific skin concerns. PRP is a procedure that involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled injuries to the skin. At the same time, Botox is a prescription medication injected into the muscles to improve wrinkles’ appearance temporarily.

While both treatments have their unique benefits and drawbacks, it is essential to understand their differences to decide which treatment best suits your individual needs and goals.

This article will compare PRP and Botox, including how they work, their potential benefits and risks, and their suitability for different skin concerns.

What Are The Differences Between PRP vs Botox?

PRP and Botox have unique benefits and drawbacks; the most appropriate option depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals. Discussing your concerns and goals with a qualified healthcare provider like Dr. David Nazarian before undergoing any treatment is always a good idea.

Some critical differences between PRP and Botox include the following:

Procedure

PRP is a procedure that involves microneedling and the application of PRP to the skin, while Botox is an injection of prescription medication into the muscles.

Results

The effects of PRP may last longer than those of Botox, but the results of both procedures may vary from person to person.

Range of treatment

PRP can be used to treat a wider range of skin concerns than Botox, specifically used to improve the appearance of wrinkles.

Natural-looking results

Because PRP is derived from the patient’s blood, the procedure’s results may look more natural than Botox’s.

PRP is typically used to improve the appearance of particular skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, and uneven skin tone. It may also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can help improve the skin’s overall appearance.

Botox is a prescription medication injected into the muscles to improve wrinkles’ appearance temporarily. It works by blocking the nerve impulses that cause muscles to contract, which helps to relax the muscles and smooth out the appearance of wrinkles.

Consultation with Dr. Nazarian, MD: $450
Credited toward your first treatment
Labs and imaging ordered when needed
  • PRP from $800 per session
  • PRF from $1,100 per session
  • Discounted 3-session packages on every treatment
  • See the full PRP and PRF price list
  • 4 tubes of blood drawn per session, more than many clinics use; 10 to 15 cc of PRP obtained
  • 4-ingredient numbing cream
  • 6-needle injector used for hair treatments
  • Providing PRP therapy since 2008
PRP Treatment & Therapy Specialist Beverly Hills - David Nazarian

What Are the Advantages of Microneedling With PRP Over Botox?

Microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a very organic approach to facial rejuvenation because it uses the body’s innate healing mechanisms and the patient’s blood supply. It is also an allergy-free therapeutic option. This is because PRP is derived from the patient’s body, while Botox is synthetic and hence not.

Some advantages of microneedling with PRP over Botox include the following:

  • Longer lasting results: The effects of microneedling with PRP may last longer than that of Botox.
  • Natural-looking results: Because PRP is derived from the patient’s blood, the procedure’s results may look more natural than Botox’s.
  • Can be used on a wider range of skin concerns: Microneedling with PRP can be used to treat a wider range of skin concerns than Botox, specifically used to improve the appearance of wrinkles.

PRP works well on any skin type and rarely causes any adverse reactions. Botulinum toxin can have unwanted side effects, such as a frozen appearance or drooping eyelids; however, these are not concerns for patients receiving Dysport.

At what age should you not get Botox?

The safety and effectiveness of Botox in younger individuals have not been established, and it is not generally recommended for use in people under the age of 18.

The best age to start receiving Botox injections will depend on individual factors, such as the presence and severity of wrinkles, the individual’s skin type, and their overall goals and concerns.

It is also important to note that Botox is not a permanent solution for wrinkles, and its effects typically wear off over time. You may need repeated treatments to maintain the desired results.

What happens if you stop using Botox?

If you stop using Botox, the muscles treated with the medication will gradually return to their regular activity, and the wrinkles that were improved by the treatment will gradually reappear.

The exact timing of this process will depend on individual factors, such as the strength of the muscles, the severity of the wrinkles, and the individual’s response to the treatment.

Who shouldn’t get Botox?

It is generally not recommended for people who:

Are pregnant or nursing

Are pregnant or nursing

The safety of Botox for pregnant or nursing women has not been established, and it is generally not recommended for use in these individuals.

Have a skin infection or inflammation at the injection site

Botox should not be injected into an area of the skin that is infected or inflamed, as this may increase the risk of complications.

Have an allergy to any of the ingredients in the medication

Botox contains several ingredients, and people allergic to these should not receive the treatment.

Have a neuromuscular disorder

People with certain neuromuscular disorders, such as myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome, may be at increased risk of experiencing side effects from Botox.

Can You Have PRP After Botox?

Yes, it is generally safe to have PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment after receiving Botox injections. PRP is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled injuries to the skin.

The procedure is typically performed by a trained medical professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. It is generally recommended to wait at least two weeks after receiving Botox injections before having PRP treatment.

Conclusion

PRP and botulinum toxin differ in mechanism, evidence, duration, and risk profile. It is not appropriate to state that PRP is generally safer or that its effects reliably last longer; duration varies by indication, protocol, and individual response.

PRP is not a direct substitute for botulinum toxin because the treatments address different concerns. Cost, treatment time, expected benefit, and recovery should be compared in the context of the patient’s specific goals.

For candidacy, expected benefits, risks, alternatives, and the treatment process, visit our PRP Facial with Microneedling service page.

PRP Micro-needling for Hyperpigmentation

Are you getting upset due to some areas of your skin becoming darker than others? In medical terminology, it is called hyperpigmentation. It can appear as small patches, sometimes on larger areas, and even affect the entire body.

Although it is not harmful, it could indicate underlying health issues. So, timely evaluation is essential. We bring out the PRP microneedling. But what is that? Does PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation work or not?

PRP micro-needling therapy involves injecting your blood plasma, enriched in platelets and supplemented with vitamins and minerals, directly into the skin. It is applied to your skin to repair damaged skin and regenerate new tissue for removing hyperpigmentation.

Read the entire article to get some authentic information about the procedure. And if you are thinking about trying the procedure, contact Dr. David Nazarian in PRP Treatment Beverly Hill clinic now.

What Happens To Hyperpigmentation After PRP Microneedling?

The effectiveness of PRP microneedling for treating hyperpigmentation may vary from person to person, and you may need additional treatments to achieve the desired results.

PRP microneedling may improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which can help even skin tone.

However, it is essential to note that the procedure may not eliminate hyperpigmentation, and additional treatments may be needed to achieve the desired results.

Discussing your specific concerns and goals with a qualified healthcare provider before undergoing any treatment is always a good idea.

Consultation with Dr. Nazarian, MD: $450
Credited toward your first treatment
Labs and imaging ordered when needed
  • PRP from $800 per session
  • PRF from $1,100 per session
  • Discounted 3-session packages on every treatment
  • See the full PRP and PRF price list
  • 4 tubes of blood drawn per session, more than many clinics use; 10 to 15 cc of PRP obtained
  • 4-ingredient numbing cream
  • 6-needle injector used for hair treatments
  • Providing PRP therapy since 2008
PRP Treatment & Therapy Specialist Beverly Hills - David Nazarian

Role of PRP micro-needling in hyperpigmentation

Before discussing that, let’s get a short outlook on PRP, micro-needling, and hyperpigmentation individually. It will help to find out why these things are happening to you. And how this procedure is going to help you out of your condition.

Firstly, Our skin’s color is determined by a chemical called melanin, and hyperpigmentation arises after our skin generates too much melanin.

Factors that play a role in these are:

  • If you are exposed to sunlight for a long time or,
  • When your skin cells get damaged
  • If you have hormonal issues, the number of melanin increases, and it causes hyperpigmentation.

If we talk about micro-needling is simply a skincare tool consisting of a small portable wheel and many needles. It is applied to the skin with PRP,platelet-rich plasma, to stimulate collagen generation.

As of now, you know that PRP and microneedling are two distinct procedures. Study shows that the combined effects of these two shows better results in aiding hyperpigmentation.

If we see the basic mechanisms, the core player in PRP is platelets. Its normal function in the body is to enable clotting and heal the body by repairing damaged tissue. Since platelets contain protein, they act as growth factors too.

Besides, It targets cells, activates receptors on the cell membrane, and stimulates tissue regeneration. As mentioned earlier, micro-needling involves needles that the doctor pierces the skin. And afterward, apply PRP to begin repairing damaged tissue.

Eventually, it will reduce the hyperpigmented areas on your skin. Also, if there is any dead tissue remaining, it will clear out and promote new tissue growth. This therapy also improves overall skin issues like brightening dark skin tones, fading blemishes, and repairing dull skin.

But how are these changes going to happen? You probably wanted to know the entire procedure. For your convenience, we will talk about them in the next.

What is the procedure for removing hyperpigmentation by PRP micro-needling?

Here you will find an idea about the whole procedure of PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation –

  • A doctor will examine your blood sample first. The plasma will now be separated from your blood using a centrifuge.
  • The doctor will introduce an anesthetic 45 to 60 minutes before starting the process, so you are pain-free.
  • Since micro-needling consists of tiny needles, the doctor pierces the skin through it, and the wheel of microneedling is held to apply to the entire skin.
  • The next step is to apply the PRP to the skin’s pores so that the PRP can penetrate.
  • PRP can be directly injected into more pores to reduce pigmentation.
  • A hyaluronic acid serum, which is very effective for the skin, is then used to moisturize and nourish your skin at the very end.
  • Since this process is a bit complicated, it takes a minimum of 2 hours to complete the treatment.

How many sessions are required for this treatment?

If the skin does not have too many complications, 3 to 4 treatments will usually cure this hyperpigmentation. There is a gap of 4-6 weeks between one session and the next. After 1 session, you may not notice any improvement in your skin.

For Significant improvement, you may need at least 2 to 3 sessions. Having said that, treatment effectiveness may vary depending on age. In this case, you may need more treatments.

What happens before and after PRP microneedling for hyperpigmentation?

Before the procedure, the doctor will clean the treatment area, and they may apply a numbing cream to reduce discomfort. The healthcare provider will then draw a small amount of blood from the patient’s arm and place it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the other components. The resulting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is then applied to the treatment area.

What happens before and after PRP microneedling for hyperpigmentation

During the procedure, the healthcare provider will use the microneedling device to create tiny punctures in the skin. The PRP is then applied to the treatment area and is absorbed into the skin through the punctures. The process is usually repeated a few times to ensure that the PRP is evenly distributed.

After the procedure, the treatment area may be red and swollen for a few days. The healthcare provider will provide instructions on caring for the treated area and may recommend using a moisturizer and avoiding sun exposure. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to help ensure optimal results.

How much does Microneedling with PRP for hyperpigmentation cost?

The expense of using PRP micro-needling to treat hyperpigmentation is high. One PRP injection might cost anywhere between $200 and $500. Since at least 4 sessions are required to cure hyperpigmentation, it becomes more expensive.

What kind of side effects can occur after this treatment?

Even though this therapy has many positive outcomes, it also has some negative ones. They are as follows:

  • Soreness
  • Allergic problems
  • Blood clotting
  • Infection

FAQs

Do dermatologists recommend this treatment?

Dermatologists recommend PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation treatment due to its effectiveness and fewer side effects. Dermatologists also forbid you to take this treatment if you have any major skin issues like sensitive skin, herpes simplex infection, etc. So, before making any decisions, you must consult with your doctor.

Can I do PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation treatment at home?

If you do this treatment without the help of experts, there is a risk of infection, blood clotting, inflammation, etc. Micro-needling requires a vertical angle, so it is better to go to the clinic instead of doing the treatment at home.

How long does it take to remove hyperpigmentation after PRP?

The typical recovery time of PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation is four to six weeks after treatment. You can see the results within 3 weeks. Improvement is not noticeable after the first treatment, requiring at least two sessions.

Is PRP Microneedling better than Microneedling alone for hyperpigmentation?

Yes, PRP micro-needling is better than microneedling alone for hyperpigmentation. Microneedling makes tiny holes in the top layer of the skin with needles that remove dead cells and induce growth factors. But when PRP is added to it, it heals faster.

Conclusion

PRP micro-needling for hyperpigmentation has very minimal risk and is quite beneficial in its functions. It repairs hyperpigmentation by rejuvenating the skin, with few side effects making it a reliable and popular treatment.

The improvement of this hyperpigmentation treatment started to appear within four weeks of treatment. However, caution should be needed if you have any skin disease. Such treatment should be avoided, or you can consult an experienced dermatologist.

PRP for Wrist Tendonitis: Evidence, Recovery & When Tears Need Surgery

Are you feeling a catching or popping sensation in your wrist? The wrist becomes so stiff you cannot open a jar or turn doorknobs. Wrist tendonitis is an inflammatory condition of the wrist. During repetitive wrist movement, the wrist tendon rubs against the bone.

PRP is sometimes considered for persistent wrist tendinopathy after the diagnosis is clear, but it is not appropriate for every source of wrist pain and should not be presented as a default solution.

PRP uses a concentrated portion of the patient’s own blood and may be considered for selected tendon problems after the diagnosis is clear. Recovery time varies widely, and current evidence does not support promising faster healing or an absence of meaningful risks.

But, Is PRP safe? How much money do you have to pay? Does PRP produce adverse effects?  Don’t worry. Just stay with us to get all the valuable information.

Role of PRP for wrist tendonitis

PRP is prepared from the patient’s blood and injected into a selected target when clinically appropriate. The goal is to influence local biologic signaling, but current evidence does not establish that PRP reliably speeds tendon healing.

Wrist tendinopathy may improve with activity modification, rehabilitation, and time. PRP is sometimes considered when symptoms persist, but it should not be presented as eliminating inflammation quickly or fully healing a tendon within days.

How does PRP help with wrist pain?

PRP contains platelet-derived signaling proteins that may affect local tissue responses. Improvement in pain or function, when it occurs, is variable and should not be attributed to a guaranteed cellular repair mechanism.

That means A cascade of cells can repair the damaged nerves and heal the pain. Another type of pain may arise by tearing cartilage. PRP fulfills the needs of blood and heals tissue.

Kienböck disease involves impaired blood supply to the lunate bone and requires orthopedic or hand-specialist evaluation. PRP should not be presented as an established treatment for Kienböck disease or as a way to heal a wrist fracture.

Consultation with Dr. Nazarian, MD: $450
Credited toward your first treatment
Labs and imaging ordered when needed
  • PRP from $800 per session
  • PRF from $1,100 per session
  • Discounted 3-session packages on every treatment
  • See the full PRP and PRF price list
  • 4 tubes of blood drawn per session, more than many clinics use; 10 to 15 cc of PRP obtained
  • 4-ingredient numbing cream
  • 6-needle injector used for hair treatments
  • Providing PRP therapy since 2008
PRP Treatment & Therapy Specialist Beverly Hills - David Nazarian

What is the procedure for PRP injection for wrist tendonitis?

Here you will get a brief idea of the entire procedure. Let’s move.

Before

A few things should be in consideration before going into treatment. Otherwise, the procedure might not be fruitful for you. Besides, you may also encounter intense side effects after going through the PRP procedure.

Those pre-procedures are:

  • Stop using any blood-thinning medicines or herbal supplements a week before your operation.
  • You must stop all systemic steroids at least one or two weeks before your pro treatment. And steroid injection before one month.
  • Eat healthy foods and drink enough water before you go for the operation.

During

PRP is a cell-free and nonsurgical treatment for accelerating growth function. Here we will discuss the overall procedure:

  • In the beginning, a doctor will draw out the patient’s blood.
  • Then the doctor will examine the blood sample. After that, if he thinks it is suitable, he will take it to the spinning equipment known as a centrifuge.
  • The centrifuge will separate the elements of blood from platelets.
  • The doctor will push the anesthetic before the treatment starts so that the treatment can be done entirely pain-free.
  • The PRP will inject into your injured wrist through the ultrasound-guided injection.

After

After completing the procedure of the PRP injection, you should maintain these things carefully.

  • Immediately after the injection, cover the treated place with the band-aid. Before wrapping up, ensure the site is cleaned well and dried.
  • After treatment, don’t use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines such as Naprosyn, Motrin, Voltaren, etc. You can still take Aspirin in an emergency as it is a weak anti-inflammatory.
  • For 2-3 days after the treatment, go on complete rest. Don’t do any work with the treated wrist.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 days.

How long does PRP take to work for tendonitis?

It may take around 4 weeks to get noticeable changes. However, the recovery process depends upon factors like severity, overall health conditions, sources of the injury, etc. Based on these factors, you may get rid of that inflammation sooner or later.

How long does PRP take to work for tendonitis

How much does this treatment cost?

The entire shot may cost you around $800 to $1,500. But, the cost also varies depending on the severity of the patient. Some of you now may ask -whether it is covered by insurance.  Well, this PRP therapy has not yet got insurance coverage. So, it is entirely a fee-for-service kind of treatment.

Side effects of PRP injection for wrist tendonitis

Platelet Rich Plasma(PRP) is a very low-risk operation or treatment. It has no significant side effects. Some side effects are,

Tissue Damage

It may damage some tissue, but it is not a significant issue. The damages will be recovered pretty soon if you give the treated wrist enough rest.

Bleeding

After injecting the PRP, blood from the injured site can come out. You should adequately cover the injected area to avoid bleeding. However, it rarely happens.

Infection(rare)

Bacteria may enter and spread if there is any fault in the immediate aftercare and the injected site is not properly covered. Then infection may occur.

Nerve injury

This also happens rarely. Sometimes, after injection of PRP, you may encounter nerve injury. It will hamper your daily life to a great extent.

Pain in the injected place

For 2 or 3 days, the inflammation may remain on the site.

Swelling

After the procedure, you may experience swelling in the injected place. This can last for a maximum of 3-7 days. This will be eliminated automatically.

Soreness

Sometimes, you may experience soreness in the injected place. This is not a significant issue. It will take 2-3 days to remove the pain automatically.

Discoloration

Sometimes the procedure may discolor the area of injection. It is normal to be bruised. But if the color is deeper and darker, immediately call a doctor. If any side effects make you nervous, you can consult a doctor.

FAQ

Is platelets-rich plasma safe for wrist tendonitis?

Yes, of course, it is safe. The great advantage of this treatment is that the plasma and the blood sample come from the patient on his own. However, it sometimes carries some side effects, but there is no major issue with PRP injection.

How long does PRP take to work for tendonitis?

The entire procedure takes approximately one hour to complete, from drawing blood samples to injecting PRP. There is no reliable one- to two-week timeline for a “full effect” of PRP in wrist tendon disorders. When benefit occurs, improvement may take weeks or longer and depends on the underlying diagnosis, severity, rehabilitation, and individual response.

How Painful is the PRP injection?

Injection discomfort varies by patient and treatment site. PRP injections are not pain-free; temporary soreness, tenderness, swelling, bruising, or increased pain can occur after treatment.

Are there any people who can’t take PRP?

Yes, there are. If a person has a history of cancer, he can’t be a candidate for taking PRP. Also, active smokers and leukemia patients can’t take PRP.

Conclusion

Evidence for PRP in wrist and tendon disorders is mixed and condition-specific. It should not be presented as appropriate for everyone, as a guaranteed way to heal an injury, or with a single success rate that applies across different tendons and diagnoses.

For physician-supervised information on PRP for tendon disorders, visit our PRP for Tendon & Sports Injuries service page. The appropriate treatment depends on the diagnosis, severity, prior care, imaging when indicated, and patient goals.

Swelling After PRP Injection Under Eyes: Recovery & After-care

Medically reviewed by David Nazarian, MD — Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Director of PRP Treatment Beverly Hills.

For treatment candidacy, expected benefits, risks and procedure details, see our PRP Under Eyes in Los Angeles & Beverly Hills service page.

Swelling after PRP under-eye treatment is common and is usually related to injection trauma, local inflammation, and temporary fluid accumulation in the thin periorbital tissues.

If you’re experiencing swelling after PRP injection under the eyes, there are a couple of reasons why that may be the case and some after-care tips to consider.

Temporary under-eye swelling is common after injections in the periorbital area. The degree of swelling depends on injection volume, technique, anatomy, and individual inflammatory response; it should not be assumed to increase in direct proportion to platelet concentration. Most swelling improves over several days, but duration varies.

Here’s what you need to know about swelling after PRP injection under the eyes, how to deal with it, and suggestions for proceeding once the initial swelling has settled down.

What Causes Swelling Under Eyes After PRP Injections?

Swelling under the eyes after PRP can occur because the periorbital tissues are thin and prone to edema after injections. The degree of swelling varies with injection technique, volume, individual anatomy, and inflammatory response; it is not simply caused by whether numbing was used.

Temporary tenderness and swelling can occur after needle placement. Because PRP is autologous, allergic reactions to the platelet product itself are uncommon, although reactions to antiseptics, anesthetics, or other materials used during a procedure can occur.

The chemicals include an activating stimulus (typically a soluble agonist), a plasma protein (predominantly fibrinogen), or a platelet surface receptor (integrin αIIbβ3 or GPIIb-IIIa).

How to Manage Swelling Under Eyes After PRP Injections

It is common to experience some swelling after a PRP injection under the eye. Swelling will generally subside within a few days, but you can take steps to reduce or manage it. Follow these tips for reducing swelling after a PRP injection under the eye.

  1. Keep your head elevated as often as possible.
  2. Apply cold compresses to your eyes for 20 minutes every 2 hours.
  3. Do not massage the treated area unless the treating clinician specifically recommends it.
  4. Get plenty of rest and avoid excess sun exposure.
  5. Use pain medication only as advised by the treating clinician, because medication recommendations can vary around PRP procedures.

When to Seek Help

Mild to moderate swelling after PRP injection under the eyes is nothing exceptional, and it can sometimes last for days or a week. The good news is that this will likely go away within a few days to a week.

However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, call your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe swelling in your face and under your eyes that does not go away even after a week of the treatment
  • Acute pain in your under eye area that does not go away even after taking OTC painkillers
  • If you notice bruises or any unexpected bleeding
  • Contact your doctor immediately if you experience excessive redness or itching in that region.

Call your doctor or seek medical attention if you notice these symptoms.

How Does PRP Help Under Eye Skin?

PRP is not a single protein; it is a platelet-rich preparation made from the patient’s own blood. It may be considered for selected under-eye skin-quality concerns, but evidence is limited and it does not treat every cause of puffiness, dark circles, wrinkles, or uneven tone.

The process involves drawing and processing the patient’s blood to prepare PRP, which is then injected when clinically appropriate. Any improvement should be described in terms of observed skin-quality outcomes rather than guaranteed tissue regeneration.

Consultation with Dr. Nazarian, MD: $450
Credited toward your first treatment
Labs and imaging ordered when needed
  • PRP from $800 per session
  • PRF from $1,100 per session
  • Discounted 3-session packages on every treatment
  • See the full PRP and PRF price list
  • 4 tubes of blood drawn per session, more than many clinics use; 10 to 15 cc of PRP obtained
  • 4-ingredient numbing cream
  • 6-needle injector used for hair treatments
  • Providing PRP therapy since 2008
PRP Treatment & Therapy Specialist Beverly Hills - David Nazarian

PRP Injections Under Eyes Side Effects

PRP injections under the eyes can treat wrinkles and fine lines, but they are not without side effects.

Swelling after PRP injection under the eyes is usually edema caused by local inflammation and fluid movement within the tissues after injection. It should not be explained as injected plasma needing to ‘set’ in the skin.

PRP Injections Under Eyes Side Effects

Other side effects include redness, rashes, inflammation, and mild pain under the eyes. The side effects may last for up to 2 weeks after the injection. It’s important to remember that this is normal and should go away with time.

Who Should Avoid PRP Treatment For Under Eyes?

PRP under-eye treatment is autologous but not risk-free. Temporary swelling, bruising, tenderness, bleeding, infection, pigment changes, vascular injury, and other injection-related complications can occur, and candidacy should be assessed individually.

The most common reasons for avoiding PRP injections for under-eye bags are people with a history of bleeding disorders, blood clotting disorders, or allergies to any of the ingredients in the injection.

Ensure you provide every detail of your medical conditions to your doctor before treatment.

After-care of PRP treatment Under Eyes – Things to Do and Not To Do

Here are a few things listed that you should maintain post-PRP treatment of the under eyes.

  • Follow the treating clinician’s aftercare instructions. Cold compresses may be recommended for comfort in the early recovery period; avoid heat unless your clinician specifically advises it.
  • Apply cold compresses or ice packs to the treated area for 20 minutes every hour (or more often if needed) on the first day following treatment.
  • To avoid inflammation and pain, take OTC painkillers before bedtime for the first three nights following your injection.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure after your procedure- wear sunglass when stepping out.
  • Continue your regular skincare routine as usual but try to avoid rubbing harsh products such as exfoliants or retinol products into your skin until you see how your skin reacts post-procedure.
  • Keep the under-eye area hydrated with neutral moisturizers or oils.

How Long Does Swelling Last After PRP Under Eyes?

Swelling commonly improves over several days, but the amount and duration vary by injection volume, technique, anatomy, and individual response. Persistent, severe, worsening, or one-sided swelling should be medically evaluated.

The lesser your age, the longer it will last. Also, sleeping well, sun protection, and properly hydrating the under eyes will retain the effects of PRP for a long time.

However, remember that PRP treatment is not a permanent solution to your under eyes issues. But it works long enough compared to other non-invasive treatments for under eyes such as microneedling or laser.

For physician-supervised treatment details, risks, candidacy, and pricing, see our PRP under-eye treatment page. Swelling often improves over several days, although recovery varies and persistent or worsening symptoms should be medically reviewed.

How Many Sessions of PRP for Under Eye is Required?

The number of sessions required for this procedure will vary depending on how your body responds to the injections, but most people can see some results after a single session.

Usually, to obtain the best results for a long time, your doctor will recommend 2-3 sessions max, at the interval of two months between each session.

FAQs

How long does swelling last after PRP injection?

The main side effect of the treatment is swelling, which should go away within a couple of days post-treatment. The swelling lasts 24 hours to a week, depending on your treatment’s intensity.

What are some PRP injections under eye side effects?

Some common side effects from PRP treatment under the eyes are swelling, redness, itching, and inflammation. If these side effects are out of control or last more than a week, you should seek help from your doctor as soon as possible.

Does PRP work under the eyes?

Yes, PRP treats under-eye issues like dark circles, wrinkles, etc., in that region. Because the treatment uses your blood, it is one of the safest minimally invasive cosmetic treatments making all your money worth it.

Conclusion

Although many people have had PRP injections, also known as platelet-rich plasma injections, few know about the healing process and side effects that can occur after one of these procedures.

The most important thing to remember is that swelling after a PRP injection under the eyes is common and will disappear. If you follow these tips, it should be gone in a few days. Be sure to keep your eye area clean and moisturized throughout this time.

To improve your under-eye look, call us or text us today.

Numbing Cream for PRP Injections: Lidocaine, Benzocaine & Safety

Quick answer: Topical lidocaine is commonly used before PRP injections to reduce discomfort. The safest product and concentration depend on the treatment area, amount applied, skin condition, application time, and whether the area is covered. High-concentration numbing creams can cause serious toxicity if misused.

PRP injections are used for selected orthopedic, hair-loss, and aesthetic indications. Injection discomfort varies by treatment site and technique, and topical anesthetics may be used when appropriate to improve comfort.

Fortunately, numbing creams are available that can help numb the skin during the injection process. Some are topical, while others are prescription-based- so you should talk to your doctor before putting anything on! Remember, there are side effects of such creams too!

Let’s have a look at a few that work well!

PRP With Numbing Creams

The good news is that this procedure doesn’t have to be as painful as you think! Many numbing creams are on the market, with different benefits and side effects. Here’s a look at some popular types of numbness creams, what they do, and their potential risks.

  • Lidocaine: Topical lidocaine is commonly used to reduce procedure discomfort, but concentration, application area, duration, and whether the skin is covered all affect absorption and safety. High-concentration or improperly used products can cause serious systemic toxicity, including cardiac and neurologic effects.
  • Benzocaine: Benzocaine is a topical anesthetic, but it is not simply a weaker substitute for lidocaine. It has a recognized risk of methemoglobinemia, a potentially serious reduction in the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity.
  • Tetracaine: Tetracaine is a potent local anesthetic used in some topical preparations. Onset and duration depend on formulation and application. Because systemic absorption and toxicity are possible, it should be used according to clinician or product-specific guidance rather than a fixed timing rule.

How to Make PRP Less Painful?

PRP injections are a quick procedure that usually only takes a few minutes. The numbing cream is applied to the area where you will be receiving the injection. A topical anesthetic may also be used on the surface to help with any discomfort.

Topical anesthetic preparations may contain agents such as lidocaine, benzocaine, tetracaine, or combinations. They are generally applied before a procedure; the appropriate product, concentration, area, and application time should be determined by the treating clinician or product instructions.

Can Scalp Numbing Cream Be Used As Face Numbing Cream For PRP?

Scalp numbing cream can be used as face numbing cream for PRP injections to help ease the pain of the process. While scalp numbing cream typically contains a topical anesthetic, it is not the same as the numbing creams specially formulated for the face.

Medically reviewed by David Nazarian, MD — Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Director of PRP Treatment Beverly Hills.

Topical anesthetic safety depends on the drug, concentration, treatment area, amount applied, application time, skin condition, and whether the area is covered. Do not use high-concentration numbing products or apply them to large, irritated, or broken areas unless specifically directed by a qualified clinician.

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Labs and imaging ordered when needed
  • PRP from $800 per session
  • PRF from $1,100 per session
  • Discounted 3-session packages on every treatment
  • See the full PRP and PRF price list
  • 4 tubes of blood drawn per session, more than many clinics use; 10 to 15 cc of PRP obtained
  • 4-ingredient numbing cream
  • 6-needle injector used for hair treatments
  • Providing PRP therapy since 2008
PRP Treatment & Therapy Specialist Beverly Hills - David Nazarian

Side Effects of Numbing Creams

While applying numbing cream can effectively decrease pain, it may lead to some adverse effects.

Side Effects of Numbing Creams

Numbness is a PRP numbing cream’s most common side effect, but some people may experience burning or itching sensations. These adverse effects may include skin irritation, redness, swelling, dry or sensitive skin, hives, or rash.

If you are going through a numbing cream treatment with a physician or doctor, ask if any of these side effects will occur.

FAQ

Can numbing cream work on scalp PRP?

Numbing cream can be a great way to reduce the pain associated with a PRP injection. It works by numbing the injected area, which will also help you feel less pressure. You can also use it to numb your scalp before getting a hair PRP procedure.

What types of numbing creams for PRP are available in the market?

The two leading numbing creams available today are topical anesthetic and nerve-blocking agents. Topical anesthetic creams decrease pain signals to the brain, while nerve-blocking agents interfere with nerve function by targeting specific receptors.

How to get rid of pain after PRP at home?

Menthol has been shown to relieve minor soreness and pains after the procedure. It can also ease muscle aches, headaches, and sore throats. You can also use ice packs to alleviate soreness or redness after PRP procedures.

Final Thought

Numbing cream can help decrease the pain associated with PRP injections and help you get through the procedure without feeling sore afterward.

There is no single “best” numbing cream for every PRP procedure. The appropriate anesthetic and technique depend on the treatment area, expected discomfort, medical history, medication interactions, and clinician judgment. For a broader overview, see our PRP pain and numbing guide.