Written By Lauren Cardone, APRN, Owner, Revitalize Medspa & Skincare Center
What is Juvederm Voluma and What Does it Do?
Voluma is a unique filler from the makers of Juvederm. Juvederm Voluma is the first filler formulated with lidocaine that is FDA approved to restore age-related volume changes in the cheeks. Juvederm Voluma is specifically designed to restore a full, plump look to your cheeks and chin. As we age, the cheek area loses its youthful shape. The cheeks flatten out and the skin may begin to sag. Voluma is an injectable gel that is injected into the cheek area to lift the skin. It temporarily adds volume to the cheek area and results in a smoother contour and a more youthful appearance to the face. Because it works so deep in the skin, it can last longer than many other fillers usually up to two years.
Unlike other fillers commonly used to treat the midface, Voluma is a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler. HA fillers are made from long chains of sugars that occur naturally in the skin. Juvederm Voluma is unique in that the HA is cross-linked through a process called Vycross that helps provide an excellent lifting capacity. This special cross-linking helps to avoid degradation, making Voluma last almost twice as long as other fillers. Studies have shown that it can last up to two years. And since it is an HA filler, it can be molded and shaped into the desired contour after injection.
Who is a Candidate for Juvederm Voluma?
Virtually anyone with volume loss in their midface is a candidate for treatment with Voluma, as well as individuals with poorly defined cheekbones. Patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s benefit from Voluma treatment. Patients in their 60s and beyond who have more significant skin laxity and volume loss tend to require more filler volume. And while these patients are often good candidates for surgery, they often choose volumizing filler treatments due to surgery concerns such as anesthesia and potential complications.
Can I have a Natural look with Voluma?
Some people worry that dermal fillers will cause their face to look artificial or strange. As with all aesthetic treatments, it is not the product, but rather the injecting provider’s artistic vision, skill, experience, and ability that creates a natural aesthetic appearance. Lauren Cardone, APRN is an injectable specialist and as one of the top injectors in Connecticut, she customizes treatments for each patient, which often includes a combination of different fillers and techniques in order to achieve the best outcomes.
Juvederm works by harnessing the natural moisture in your skin, so you will find that you have a completely natural look when you move or smile. These natural results are part of what makes Juvederm Voluma a popular dermal filler. Results are noticeable immediately and can last for up to two full years.
Is It Safe?
The FDA announced in 2006 that Juvederm was safe for use and that it would not cause any serious side effects. Because Juvederm relies on hyaluronic acid, which everyone has in their skin, it is suitable for almost anyone. Juvederm Voluma was FDA approved for use in the US in December 2013.
What Else Can Juvederm Do?
Juvederm has produced an amazing array of options with its line of fillers. Each type is specifically designed to work in a specific area. Although Voluma is designed for use on the cheeks, other Juvederm products are used to address:
- Sagging cheeks
- Unwanted wrinkles
- Chin & Jawline
- Nasolabial folds
- Frown lines
- Lip lines
- Marionette lines
- Worry lines
- Crow’s feet
What Should I Expect at My Juvederm Appointment?
At our office, every patient is first examined and evaluated whether Voluma will be beneficial. Most patients can benefit from Voluma rejuvenation of their cheeks. Pre-treatment photos are taken. The face is washed with an anti-bacterial soap. The injection session is similar to having other filler injections. Depending on the amount of facial volume needed, anywhere from 1 to 6 syringes of Voluma may be used, but most patients have 1 or 2 syringes.
How Will I look When I leave Revitalize Mespa after Voluma injections?
You will notice an immediate notable improvement in your facial volume. There may be a variable amount of swelling that usually resolves within 2 to 3 days.
How Many Voluma Injection Sessions Will I Need?
Patients typically only need one session. We ask our patients to return to our office for a “facial check-up,” 10-14 days after their treatment for post-treatment evaluation. At this time, you might possibly need a small additional amount of Voluma to achieve the look you desire.
Are There Any Special Post-Treatment Instructions After Voluma Injections?
Patients should not exercise and should avoid heat and sun exposure for at least 24 hours after Voluma injections to minimize the risk of swelling and bruising. Our patients are given ice packs to use for a few minutes after their injections. We ask that you try to sleep on your back for two nights if possible.
Will I Bruise from Voluma Injections?
Voluma is injected deep, just above the bone in the cheeks and below the muscle. There is the possibility of minor to more noticeable bruising. As with all injectable treatments, we ask our patients to not take any medications that cause the blood to thin such as aspirin, Advil, Motrin, anti-inflammatories, or other supplements that may increase the chance of bruising for at least 7 to 10 days before their injections. Patients are encouraged to use both oral and topical Arnica to help minimize bruises.
Will I have Lumps and Bumps after Voluma is Injected?
As a skilled provider, Lauren palpates the face after the injection to ensure that there are no lumps or bumps from the Voluma. If any are felt, they can be easily massaged down and smoothed out.
What Does Voluma Cost?
Once again, Voluma is not a commodity. Our Voluma charges reflect Lauren’s expertise, artistic vision, master training, and excellent natural aesthetic results. US studies showing that Voluma lasts up to 2 years were based on the use of 5 to 6 syringes. Thanks to her Voluma Master Injection Technique, Lauren Cardone, APRN is able to use 1 or 2 syringes strategically placed to get lasting results.
Call for a Consultation
As we age, changes in appearance can cause many people to lose confidence or become frustrated with their looks. But with Juvederm, you can finally find a solution that’s both natural-looking and low-hassle. Would you like to know more? We will work with you every step of the way. We always work to make sure that you are 100% satisfied with your results and that you walk out of our medspa with the look of your dreams.
