Ophthalmic Vascular Occlusion and Blindness After Platelet‐Rich Plasma Injections: A Systematic Review

Background Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is widely used in aesthetic and regenerative medicine; however, rare vision‐threatening complications such as blindness have been reported following facial injections. Aims This systematic review aimed to identify and analyze all published cases of visual impairment following PRP injections. Methods A systematic literature search was performed until August 2025, using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, supplemented by a manual Google Scholar search. Search terms combined “platelet‐rich plasma” with ophthalmic complications. Case reports describing visual impairment after PRP injection were included without date or language restrictions. Data extracted included patient demographics, indication, injection site, onset and pattern of vision loss, ophthalmologic findings, management, and outcome. Results Seven articles reporting 10 cases of PRP‐associated unilateral visual loss published between 2017 and 2025 were identified. All patients were female (22–64 years). Most cases ( n = 9) followed PRP injections for facial rejuvenation, predominantly in the glabella ( n = 6) and forehead ( n = 4), while one followed scalp PRP for alopecia. Vision loss was immediate and painful in 9 cases; 8 presented with no light perception. Two cases with delayed or partial visual impairment demonstrated visual recovery after corticosteroid therapy. Fundoscopic findings indicated retinal and choroidal ischemia. Conclusions Although rare, PRP injections can cause irreversible blindness, likely due to embolic ophthalmic artery occlusion (OAO). Prevention through safe injection technique is essential, as treatment options remain limited and often ineffective. Over half of the reported cases were performed by non‐physicians or inadequately trained practitioners, underscoring the critical need for proper credentials and training.