By Gail Dobbins
VOLUMA XC® is the newest hyaluronic acid filler used in facial enhancements that is FDA approved to correct age-related volume loss in the cheek area. It is injected into the midface to elevate cheeks and return youthful contours to the face. As we age, the cheek ligaments relax, allowing the cheeks to fall down. This leaves indentations in the eyelid/cheek junction that make the eyelid look puffy. It ages the otherwise youthful appearance of a high cheekbone. The aging process also includes loss of cheek fat that allows the midface to sag. VOLUMA can restore the youthful contours of the face, elevate the cheekbone, and make the parenthesis (nasolabial folds) flatten.
VOLUMA XC is from the Juvéderm® family of hyaluronic acids (HA’s) with the XC (extra comfort) indicating there is local anesthetic included in each syringe to make the injection more comfortable. Improvement is instantaneous and lasts for two years; however, because it is an HA, it is reversible.
“Specialized training is required to offer these injections in reduced quantities and still provide significant results,” commented Dr. Mauricio de Maio (Brazil), one of the world’s leading experts in the use of VOLUMA. One can get results with 6-7 syringes. However, it takes a thorough examination, a keen eye, and precise technique to provide incredible results with just 1-2 syringes.”
Dr. Poulter states, “VOLUMA can provide structural support to the skin and soft tissues of the face, resulting in significant improvement in many areas.“ VOLUMA can work with Juvederm to treat both superficial and deep concerns, for both women and men.
JUVÉDERM Injectable Gel
Juvéderm, a dermal filler, is FDA approved for the superficial treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds such as:
- Smile lines or nasolabial folds
- Marionette lines
- Forehead furrows
JUVÉDERM is also well suited for enhancing the lower eyelids by filling tear troughs and augmenting thin or wrinkled lips. It also works well filling in scars from acne or injuries.
VOLUMA XC
VOLUMA is an innovative filler that’s specifically intended to replace age-related lost volume in the cheeks. This FDA-approved product’s cross-linking allows it to last two years. The slightly less post-injection swelling allows results to be seen at time of injection. VOLUMA has the same active ingredient as Juvéderm. Dr. Poulter suggests treating with VOLUMA first, as it may reduce the amount of JUVEDERM needed.
How Does It Work?
JUVÉDERM Injectable Gel and VOLUMA are both smooth-consistency gel fillers composed of synthetic hyaluronic acid — a substance that mimics the body’s own hyaluronic acid — which adds volume and hydration to the skin. Because the gel is biocompatible and biodegradable, it requires no allergy testing, and will be harmlessly absorbed and eliminated by the body over time. They both are reversible, making them very safe.
About the Procedure
The filler is injected through a very small needle to instantly restore volume and smooth wrinkles and folds. JUVÉDERM products come pre-mixed with lidocaine, a fast-acting anesthetic, for a more comfortable procedure. The precise injection process often surprises the patient who appreciates the subtle improvements and how quickly their youth is restored. Patients can return to normal activities, experiencing only slight discomfort, redness, and swelling at the injection sites. Improvements from JUVÉDERM can last up to one year, while those of VOLUMA can last up to two years. Most patients report best results with regular touch-ups and combining their filler treatments with BOTOX® Cosmetic injections.
Jeffrey S. Poulter, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has over 22 years of experience injecting fillers. Dr. Poulter is located at Senara in Peoria and at the Center for Cosmetic and Laser Surgery in Bloomington. For more information, visit www.drpoulter.com, call the Peoria office at 309-692-6869, the Bloomington office at 309-663-1222 or toll free 1-888-841-4108.
Photos courtesy of Dr. Poulter