PRP Treatment for Smell Loss
Smell loss can be frustrating
If you’ve been living with smell loss or smell distortion, you may feel as though you’ve tried everything without seeing change.
The Smell Clinic offers a structured PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment pathway designed to support recovery in suitable patients. This page explains what PRP is, how the treatment works and what you can expect at each step.
What is PRP and how can it help smell loss?
PRP is an emerging treatment that uses a small sample of your own blood to support healing. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets – cells which are rich in growth factors and can help tissue repair.
In smell loss, PRP is injected into the upper nasal area near the smell nerves. Early research suggests it may help support recovery after viral or inflammatory changes, including long-COVID-related smell loss. While outcomes vary from person to person, many patients find it offers a meaningful next step when smell has not returned on its own.
Who is PRP suitable for?
PRP may be a suitable treatment option if you have any of the following:
Persistent loss
Persistent smell loss or distortion after a viral infection (including COVID)
Reduced smell
Reduced sense of smell linked to sinus or nasal inflammation
Ongoing changes
Ongoing parosmia (smells that seem different) or phantosmia (smells that aren't there)
Lasting changes
Smell changes lasting longer than four weeks
What does PRP treatment look like?
Whilst the PRP treatment itself is straightforward and usually completed in a single appointment, the pathway is a four-step process that consists of an initial appointment, the treatment and then two follow-up consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone’s recovery timeline is different. Some people begin noticing changes within a few weeks, while others progress more gradually over several months. PRP is an emerging treatment, so results vary, but many patients value having a structured pathway rather than waiting for improvement on their own.
PRP is generally considered low risk because it is made from your own blood, which means allergic reactions are extremely unlikely. The procedure is carried out by an ENT specialist under local anaesthetic using established clinical techniques. Your clinician will explain everything clearly and answer any questions before treatment.
PRP may support recovery in some people with post-viral smell loss, including long-COVID-related changes. While outcomes differ from person to person, early research is encouraging. Your consultation helps determine whether PRP is appropriate for your specific symptoms.
If PRP isn’t the right option for you, your specialist will guide you through alternative approaches. This may include smell training, managing underlying nasal or sinus issues or further assessment where needed. You will always receive clear, supportive guidance.
Some people experience meaningful improvement, while others see more gradual change. PRP is still considered experimental, so full restoration cannot be guaranteed. Your specialist will talk honestly about what is realistic for your situation.