PRF Fillers: Natural Under-Eye Rejuvenation with Platelet-Rich Fibrin

When you notice that your under-eye area looks hollow or tired, it’s often a sign of needing more rest and hydration. However, many people turn to fillers and search for solutions like platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) injections.

PRF under-eye injections involve drawing two to four 13-milliliter vials of your blood, spinning it in a centrifuge at a slow speed, and then injecting the separated PRF into your under-eye area. The goal is to use your body’s natural platelets and growth factors to rejuvenate the skin, enhancing volume and improving skin appearance.

Unlike synthetic fillers, PRF offers a more natural approach that is appealing to those looking for subtle results without foreign substances. However, the process of drawing blood and injecting it can be unsettling for some, especially those who dislike needles.

While traditional fillers typically show results after one treatment, PRF may require multiple sessions. Some patients experience significant swelling for over a week, and when the swelling subsides, the plumpness often decreases too, making it seem as though the results have faded. Over time, you may return to your baseline appearance.

Expert Opinions on PRF Fillers

Dr. John Doe, a Portland-based injector with 20 years of experience (10 of which have been with PRF), shared, "Fillers can attract water, creating an unnatural look, while PRF provides a natural rejuvenation for the under-eye area. We often see increased volume and a brighter appearance over time." He also mentioned that PRF can be used for hair and lip treatments, with growth factors slowly releasing over months for gradual results.

However, another expert noted that PRF does not provide lasting volume, especially in hollow tear troughs, as the body reabsorbs the material. He recommends more traditional hyaluronic acid-based fillers for longer-lasting results under the eyes.

Cost of PRF Fillers

The cost of PRF treatments varies, with microneedling starting at $499 and injections at $699. Packages that combine these treatments can cost thousands of dollars across the country. Before proceeding, it’s essential to consult with a qualified provider and ask questions about whether PRF is the best solution for your needs.

How to Get Rid of Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes are a common issue that can affect self-esteem and appearance. Understanding their causes and the available treatments is essential for those looking to reduce or eliminate dark circles.

Basic Facts About Dark Circles

• Dark circles are extremely common, affecting 9 out of 10 people to some degree.
• There are two main causes of dark circles:
  • Blue veins around the eyes: These dilated blood vessels can be visible through the thin skin around the eyes, giving a "raccoon-eye" appearance. These veins are called periorbital veins, similar to reticular veins in the legs.
  • Melanin deposition: Excessive melanin, often genetic, can darken the skin under the eyes, making dark circles more prominent.

Lifestyle Factors and Medical Conditions Worsening Dark Circles

• Sleep: Both lack of sleep and oversleeping can make dark circles more visible by dilating blood vessels.
• Sun Exposure: Excess sun can lead to age spots around the eyes, weakening the skin and contributing to dark circles.
• Fluid Retention: Salt intake can cause blood vessels under the eyes to retain fluid, making them more prominent.
• Aging: As we age, the fat pad beneath the eye thins, making veins more visible.
• Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss can cause a sunken-eye appearance, similar to the effects of aging.
• Iron Deficiency Anemia: Lower iron levels reduce oxygen in the blood, making dark circles appear darker.
• Smoking: Smoking damages skin, causes hypertension in upper body veins, and leads to higher hemoglobin levels, which darken the blood.
• Allergies and Nasal Congestion: These can cause the veins around the sinuses to dilate, worsening dark circles.

Treatment for Dark Circles

To treat dark circles, you must first address lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, and sun protection. Consult your healthcare provider to address any underlying medical conditions like anemia or nasal congestion. These steps can help reduce dark circles but may not be a complete cure.

Sclerotherapy for Dark Circles

Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment for dark circles caused by blue veins under the eyes. This procedure involves injecting a solution into the veins to close them permanently. It's a safe and proven solution for varicose, reticular, and spider veins in the legs, as well as periorbital veins around the eyes.

Although some fear the treatment may affect veins in the eyes, periorbital veins drain into the external jugular veins in the neck, not the retinal veins of the eye, making it a safe procedure when performed by an experienced doctor.

If you're tired of relying on makeup to cover dark circles, sclerotherapy offers a long-lasting solution.