Treatment of atrophic acne scars using autologous platelet-rich plasma vs combined subcision and autologous platelet-rich plasma: A split-face comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Multiple therapeutic approaches are usually required when treating atrophic acne scars. Subcision was reported to be of value in improving rolling scars. Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has recently been proposed as an adjuvant treatment option for atrophic acne scars with few reports evaluating its efficacy.

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to compare the effect of intradermal injection of PRP vs combined PRP and subcision in the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

METHODS: Thirty patients with bilateral atrophic acne scars were enrolled. Each patient received three monthly sessions. Each side of the face was randomly treated either with intradermal PRP alone or with combined treatment with subcision followed by PRP injection. Patients were assessed at 3 and 6 months following the last treatment session. Evaluation of serial photographs was performed by two blinded investigators.

RESULTS: Platelet-rich plasma alone showed a better response, fewer side effects, and shorter downtime compared to combined subcision and PRP.

CONCLUSION: Autologous PRP injection can be a therapeutic option in the treatment of atrophic acne scars, with fewer complications and better tolerability than combined subcision and autologous PRP.