Restoring Youthful Contours

As we age, one of the most noticeable changes in our appearance is the gradual loss of facial volume. Collagen, elastin, and fat diminish/shift over time, leading to hollowed, sagging, or tired-appearing features. Fortunately, modern aesthetic dermatology offers advanced injectable options that restore balanced, natural-looking volume. Among these, Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM) has become an exciting and increasingly popular regenerative treatment—especially for patients seeking a natural alternative to traditional fillers.

At Steel City Dermatology, we use a boutique, individualized approach to help you look refreshed without looking “done.” Below, we explore where volume loss occurs and how PRFM and dermal fillers can help, while highlighting why PRFM is becoming a standout option.

Why Does Facial Volume Loss Happen?

Starting in our 30s, multiple structural changes occur:

• Decline in collagen production

• Loss and redistribution of facial fat pads

• Bone resorption along the temples, midface, jawline, and orbital rim

• Thinner, less elastic skin

The result: hollowness, flattening, and decreased support in key areas of the face.

What Is Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM)?

PRFM is a next-generation platelet-based regenerative treatment derived from your own blood. Unlike traditional PRP, PRFM uses a special centrifugation and fibrin-matrix system that creates a more stable, longer-lasting scaffold. This fibrin matrix holds platelets in place so they release growth factors slowly and effectively.

Benefits of PRFM

• Natural option — no synthetic ingredients

• Stimulates collagen, elastin, and tissue regeneration

• Improves texture, tone, and volume gradually

• Minimal risk of allergic reaction or lumpiness

• Beautifully subtle, soft fill ideal for delicate areas

Because PRFM works with your body, results develop gradually, creating a refreshed, healthy look rather than a dramatic overnight change.

Dermal Fillers: A Quick Comparison

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers remain a staple for immediate volume restoration. They offer:

• Instant lift and contour

• Customizable structure (firm fillers for jawline; softer for lips or tear troughs)

• Reversibility

Fillers are excellent for patients wanting instant gratification or structural contouring.

However, they don’t stimulate collagen the way PRFM does, and some areas—especially the infraorbital region—can be prone to swelling or irregularities with fillers. This is where PRFM truly shines.

How PRFM & Dermal Fillers Treat Common Areas of Volume Loss

Below are the major areas where age-related volume loss is most apparent and how these treatments can help.

1. Temporal Hollows

As temples become hollow, the face can appear gaunt and aged.

PRFM for Temples

PRFM adds soft, natural fullness while improving skin quality. Because it integrates seamlessly, it avoids the “overfilled” look that can sometimes happen with fillers in this area.

Dermal Fillers

HA fillers can provide structural support here but require careful placement to avoid heaviness or palpability.

2. Infraorbital Region (Tear Troughs)

This is one of the most delicate areas of the face and one where patients commonly seek help for shadows or hollowness.

PRFM for Tear Troughs

PRFM is a game-changer in this region. Its smooth, natural consistency reduces the risk of:

• Tyndall effect

• Puffiness

• Long-term swelling

It gradually improves under-eye hollowness and skin texture, leading to a brighter, more rested appearance.

Dermal Fillers

While fillers can provide immediate volume, they have a higher risk profile here and require an experienced injector.

3. Midface / Cheeks

Loss of volume in the midface contributes significantly to a tired or flattened appearance.

PRFM

PRFM stimulates natural fullness over time, subtly lifting the midface and improving skin quality. Ideal for patients seeking a natural soft lift rather than a sculpted or dramatic contour.

Dermal Fillers

Fillers are great for adding more pronounced lift or cheekbone definition.

4. Jawline & Gonial Angle

A well-defined jawline is a hallmark of youthful structure.

PRFM

PRFM can improve skin texture and subtly enhance jawline contour over time. It is excellent for soft tissue improvement but is not meant for strong “sharp edge” sculpting.

Dermal Fillers

Fillers—especially firmer HA fillers—provide immediate, structural contour to define the angle of the jaw, smooth jowls, or enhance mandibular lines.

5. Lips

Aging lips lose volume, hydration, and border definition.

PRFM

PRFM can be injected into the lips for hydration, subtle fullness, and rejuvenation. It improves lip quality without the “filler look” and is ideal for patients seeking natural enhancement.

Dermal Fillers

Fillers remain the best option for patients wanting shape, structure, or more significant volume.

Why Many Patients Choose PRFM First

For patients seeking natural, regenerative results, PRFM is often the preferred first step. It’s especially beneficial for:

• First-time injectable patients

• Those worried about looking overfilled

• Anyone wanting collagen stimulation

• Delicate or high-risk areas (infraorbital region)

• Long-term skin quality improvement

In many cases, we use a combination approach—PRFM for regenerative benefits and fillers for structural lift and contour. This delivers the most balanced, youthful, and natural results.

Finding the Right Approach for You

Every face is unique. Choosing PRFM, fillers, or a combination depends on your anatomy, volume loss pattern, and aesthetic goals. At Steel City Dermatology, we guide you through a personalized treatment plan designed to enhance your natural features while keeping you looking like…you.

If you’re noticing volume loss in your temples, under-eyes, cheeks, jawline, or lips, PRFM may be the ideal next step in your aesthetic journey.