Transforming Lives with PRP Injections for Smell Loss Recovery
- Brennan Dodson, MD, FARS
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Losing the sense of smell can deeply affect daily life. Whether it is a complete loss, partial loss, or distorted smell, olfactory dysfunction changes how people experience the world. Traditional treatments often fall short, leaving many searching for answers. Recently, a new approach using Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections inside the nose has shown promise in restoring smell. This blog explores how PRP injections work, who can benefit, and what to expect from this emerging treatment. Dr. Dodson is the only medical provider in the Mountain West who provides intra-nasal PRP injection.
Understanding Olfactory Dysfunction and Its Impact
Olfactory dysfunction includes several conditions:
Anosmia: Complete loss of smell
Hyposmia: Partial loss of smell
Parosmia: Distorted or altered smell perception
These conditions can result from infections, head injuries, aging, or other causes. The loss or distortion of smell affects taste, safety (such as detecting smoke or gas leaks), and emotional well-being. Many patients report feeling isolated or frustrated when treatments do not work.
Why Traditional Treatments Often Fail
Common treatments include olfactory training, medications, and lifestyle changes. Olfactory training involves repeated exposure to specific scents to stimulate nerve recovery. Medications may target inflammation or underlying causes. Unfortunately, these methods do not always lead to significant improvement, especially for long-term cases.
Patients with smell loss lasting more than six months often find limited options. This gap has led researchers and clinicians to explore new therapies that can directly promote healing in the olfactory system.
How PRP Injections Work for Smell Recovery
Platelet-Rich Plasma is a concentration of platelets derived from a patient’s own blood. Platelets contain growth factors that encourage tissue repair and regeneration. PRP has been safely used for years in dermatology, orthopedics, and wound healing.
For smell loss, PRP is injected into the olfactory zones inside the nose. The process includes:
Drawing a small amount of blood from the patient
Using centrifugation to isolate the platelet-rich plasma
Numbing the nasal area for comfort
Injecting PRP into targeted olfactory regions
This treatment aims to stimulate the damaged olfactory nerves and surrounding tissues to regenerate, potentially restoring the sense of smell.
Who Can Benefit from PRP Treatment
Candidates for PRP injections typically include adults who have experienced smell dysfunction for more than six months. A screening visit is essential to determine suitability. This visit usually involves:
A detailed nasal and medical history
Nasal endoscopy to examine the olfactory area
Comprehensive smell testing, such as the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT)
Patients who meet the criteria and show no contraindications may proceed with PRP treatment.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
The PRP injection procedure is straightforward and minimally invasive. Patients can expect:
Mild discomfort during blood draw and nasal numbing
Possible mild swelling or irritation inside the nose after injection
A series of three injection sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, following protocols similar to those used by leading medical centers
Many patients notice gradual improvement in their sense of smell over months. Continuing smell training alongside PRP treatment may enhance results.
Safety and Research Behind PRP for Smell Loss
Research indicates that intra-nasal PRP injections are safe with minimal side effects. Since PRP uses the patient’s own blood, risks of allergic reactions or infections are low. Studies published in reputable journals have shown that PRP can improve olfactory function more effectively than other treatments.
While PRP is not yet FDA approved specifically for smell loss and is not covered by insurance, ongoing research supports its potential. Patients should discuss all options with their healthcare provider and consider PRP as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Practical Tips for Patients Considering PRP
Seek a thorough evaluation from a specialist, like Dr. Dodson, experienced in olfactory disorders
Ask about the specific PRP preparation and injection protocols used
Understand that multiple sessions are usually necessary for best results
Combine PRP treatment with smell training exercises for improved outcomes
Monitor and report any side effects promptly to your provider
The Future of Smell Loss Treatment
PRP injections represent a promising step forward for people struggling with smell loss. As more clinics adopt this therapy and research expands, patients may have greater access to effective treatments. The goal is to restore not only the sense of smell but also the quality of life that comes with it.
If you or a loved one has experienced persistent smell loss, consider a free olfactory dysfunction screening visit with Dr. Dodson to see if you or your loved one is a candidate for life-changing PRP therapy. Early screening and intervention can make a meaningful difference.
