Risks and limitations of PRP

PRP works with the body’s own material and is therefore considered well tolerated. Well tolerated, however, does not mean free of any accompanying effects. A serious account names both: the favourable starting point and the realistic limits.

Possible reactions

Because PRP involves taking blood and then injecting it, the usual reactions to an injection can occur at the injection sites. These typically include:

• temporary redness in the treated area
• slight swelling or a feeling of tightness
• brief tenderness at the injection site
• rarely, a small bruise, as can also occur with a normal blood draw

These reactions are as a rule temporary and subside on their own. The studies available so far, for example on use in hair loss, report predominantly mild and temporary accompanying effects. This is consistent with the fact that the body’s own material is used. Individual information about possible reactions is part of every medical treatment.

The limits of the method

PRP can support the body’s own processes, but it does not override fundamental biological conditions. For hair, this means: where there are no longer any active hair roots, PRP cannot make new hair grow either. The method is therefore aimed at situations in which structures capable of regeneration are still present.

Expectations about the extent of the effect should also remain realistic. The strength of the scientific evidence varies depending on the area of application, and results differ between studies. One reason for this is the inconsistent preparation of the plasma in different studies.

Realistic expectations

Reputable providers do not promise guaranteed results or fixed percentages. An individual assessment that takes into account the findings, the expectations and the alternatives makes more sense. PRP is often not considered in isolation but as one component within a broader treatment concept.

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