Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Blepharoplasty: Healing and Postoperative Outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Upper and lower blepharoplasty are among the most commonly performed surgical procedures for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Postoperative complications such as edema, pain, dry eye, lower eyelid malposition, and scar formation are frequently observed, affecting patient comfort and outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) on postoperative healing, early complication incidence, and scar quality in blepharoplasty. The hypothesis was that i-PRF application shortens the healing period, reduces early postoperative complications, and improves scar outcomes.

METHODS

A prospective intraindividual clinical study was conducted at the Azerbaijan Medical University Teaching Surgery Clinic (March 2023 to November 2025) involving 36 patients. Only one eyelid per patient received i-PRF injection, whereas the contralateral eyelid served as a control. Healing was assessed on postoperative Days 1, 3, 7, and 14, and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Edema, pain (visual analog scale), erythema, and scar tissue were evaluated using the Vancouver scar scale (VSS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, with significance defined as P < .05.

RESULTS

Eyes treated with i-PRF demonstrated significantly lower edema and pain scores (P < .05). Scar erythema and VSS scores were more favorable in the i-PRF group (P = .00055). Symptoms such as dry eye and irritation were also less frequent. These findings indicate a positive effect of i-PRF on postoperative healing and tissue regeneration.

CONCLUSIONS

i-PRF application accelerates postoperative recovery after blepharoplasty, reduces edema and pain, and improves early functional and aesthetic outcomes. Scar quality was enhanced, and periocular tissue integrity was better preserved, suggesting both aesthetic and functional benefits of i-PRF in blepharoplasty procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2 (THERAPEUTIC): For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.