Can PRF injection in the scalp cause vascular occlusion?

Question

Im thinking of having PRF injections for hairloss, and wonder if the scalp have the same anatomical risk in terms of the possibility of vascular occlusion as injections in the face does?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

PRF, or Platelet-Rich Fibrin, is similar to PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and is also used to treat hair loss. It involves taking a sample of your blood, processing it to isolate the platelet-rich fibrin, and then injecting this into your scalp.
Vascular occlusion is a rare but serious complication that can occur with any injectable treatment. It happens when the injected material enters a blood vessel and blocks it. This complication is more common in areas with abundant blood vessels, such as the face, but it's relatively rare in the scalp due to the scalp's vascular anatomy.
The risk of vascular occlusion in the scalp from PRF injections is considered to be extremely low. However, it's important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a trained and experienced professional who understands the anatomy of the scalp and can minimize the risk of complications.
Before proceeding with PRF injections, it's recommended to have a comprehensive discussion with your doctor about potential risks, benefits, and alternative treatment options.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Great question.  The answer depends upon the preparation of the PRP. If it's has an anticoagulant and is prepared using only non activated platelets, occlusion can not occur. If Acell or other particles are added or if the PRP is activated, then occlusion through communicating veins is a THEORETICAL,rare possibility.
It should be noted that this has never been reported.
Find a PRP expert.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
Realself Hall of Fame

Ryan Welter, MD · Answer

okay you see them firstVascular occlusion is a rare but serious complication associated with injectable treatments. Fortunately, the risk of vascular occlusion from Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) or Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections in the scalp is extremely low. Unlike the face, which has a dense network of blood vessels and higher anatomical risk, the scalp’s vascular anatomy makes such complications exceedingly unlikely.

When the scalp is numbed before PRP or PRF injections, Xylocaine with epinephrine is often used to minimize bleeding. While this can cause temporary vascular closure, it’s short-lived and has not been associated with long-term vascular issues or complications like tissue necrosis. Theoretical risks, such as temporary blanching if injected into an artery, remain just that—purely theoretical and without documented cases.

PRP and PRF treatments are excellent adjuncts to hair restoration, particularly when combined with hair transplants. By introducing growth factors from your own blood, these therapies strengthen hair follicles, stimulate growth, and improve the overall health of your scalp. As hair transplant experts, we recommend PRP as a valuable tool to enhance transplant outcomes and maintain existing hair density.

For safety and optimal results, always seek treatment from experienced professionals with a deep understanding of scalp anatomy. With proper technique, PRF and PRP offer a low-risk, high-reward approach to combating hair loss and achieving a fuller, healthier head of hair.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. The risk of vascular occlusion from PRF is very low. As with any medical procedure, be sure to find a very experienced medical professional to mitigate complications. Best wishes to you.

Dr. T

Dr. T

Can PRF injection in the scalp cause vascular occlusion?

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