Use of platelet-rich fibrin and platelet-rich plasma in combination with fat graft: which is more effective during facial lipostructure?

[PURPOSE] Fat grafts have always represented a challenge in inducing the necessary neoangiogenesis, which results in significant resorption. This study was designed to compare the efficiency of first- and second-generation platelet-rich plasmas (PRPs) combined with a fat graft during facial lipostructure surgery.

[METHODS AND MATERIALS] To address the research purpose, the investigators designed and implemented a double-blinded prospective clinical trial. The patients underwent bilateral facial lipostructure, a natural long-lasting method of filling and supporting the face using intricate layers of infiltrated autologous fat. The method involved the use of PRP on 1 side and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on the other side. The study population was composed of all patients presenting to the authors' department for the evaluation and management of facial contouring in the cheek and cheekbone areas from June 2008 through December 2010. The primary predictor variable was the type of combination (PRP/fat or PRF/fat). The outcome variables were the amount of resorption, which was estimated by comparing pre- and postsurgical photographic views, pain, edema, and bruising. The statistical evaluation of the findings was performed using SPSS software. Parametric tests (t test and Levene test) were used to compare the treatment efficacy and complications between the groups.

[RESULTS] Twenty-five patients (8 men and 17 women) underwent bilateral facial lipostructure surgery in the cheek and cheekbone areas using PRP and PRF. One year after the operation, a slight esthetic asymmetry was noticeable, with greater average resorption on the PRP/fat side.

[CONCLUSIONS] This first comparative clinical study highlights the value of using concentrated platelets for adipocyte grafts. The results suggest that the combination of fat and PRF is more effective than the combination of fat and PRP in the context of facial lipostructure surgery.