Facial PRP injection (vampire facial) in Istanbul, Turkey: price, results and risks

Platelet Rich Plasma PRP Facial Treatment in Istanbul

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facial treatment, often called the vampire facial, is an autologous procedure: it uses plasma concentrated in platelets from your own blood. Growth factors released by the platelets, such as PDGF, TGF-beta and VEGF, are thought to stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin; this effect has been observed mainly in laboratory studies.

Clinical evidence is limited. An overview of 13 systematic reviews (2024) concluded that it is insufficient to draw firm conclusions on PRP for facial rejuvenation, because most studies are small and uncontrolled. PRP does not fill volume or lift sagging skin, so it is used with realistic expectations of modest, gradual changes in skin quality.

Clinics in Istanbul offer PRP facial treatment. Ask each clinic how it prepares the plasma (system used, number of spins),who performs the injections and which accreditations it holds. For other skin options, see dermatology in Turkey.

How is the Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy Performed?

The treatment has three steps.

1. Blood draw and plasma preparation. A small blood sample is taken from your arm, like a standard blood test. It is spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma rich in platelets from the red blood cells. The volume and the protocol depend on the system used.

2. Injections. The practitioner chooses the areas to treat according to your concerns. A numbing cream is often applied beforehand, and the injections cause moderate discomfort. They are placed in or just under the skin.

3. Gradual changes. Any change in texture and radiance appears gradually over several weeks and varies from person to person.

A session lasts under an hour and does not require hospitalization. If several sessions are planned, they are spaced a few weeks apart: you can have the first one in Turkey and plan the next ones with your clinic. Arrange follow-up with a dermatologist at home, especially if you have a complex skin history.

Vampire Facial Side Effects & How to Minimize Them

Facial PRP is widely used in aesthetic medicine. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, but rare serious risks exist.

Common effects

Swelling and redness at the injection sites are frequent and usually go away within 1 to 3 days. Bruising, particularly under the eyes, can last longer. Temporary sensitivity, mild itching or a feeling of tightness may also occur.

Rare risks

• Infection, rare. Choose a clinic that prepares the plasma under sterile conditions.
• Vision loss: a systematic review of case reports (Wu et al.) describes very rare cases of sudden vision loss after PRP injections, mostly between the eyebrows (glabella) or in the forehead, caused by a blocked artery. See a doctor immediately in case of vision changes or severe pain.

Because PRP comes from your own blood, allergic reactions are uncommon.

Precautions

Tell your doctor about all your medicines. If you take an anticoagulant, never stop it on your own: the prescribing doctor decides. After the session, avoid the sun, harsh skincare products and intense exercise for a few days. Discuss your full medical history beforehand if you have a platelet disorder, a bleeding disorder, an active skin infection, a history of keloid scars or an autoimmune disease.