Voluma
Voluma is the first and only hyaluronic acid filler FDA-approved for cheek volume restoration. Results are nearly instantaneous and can last up to 18 months.
Since hyaluronic acids are simple sugars that naturally occur in the body, they are safer and less likely to cause reactions than synthetic fillers.
Voluma uses a technology called Vycross that is a specific process of binding the hyaluronic acids, making it last longer and creating a smoother consistency than other fillers. This allows for its unique use of filling larger areas and such as the cheek region of the face.
What is Voluma?
Voluma is a hyaluronic acid filler used to restore volume loss to the cheek area.
Who makes Voluma?
Allergan, Inc., the company that makes Botox cosmetic.
Are Voluma injections safe?
Yes, although Voluma is the newest filler to the United States market, it has been used in Brazil and Europe for over 5 years. Most patients have few if any side effects.
Are Voluma injections painful?
Voluma generally requires the least amount of injections, which usually has people remarking that it is the least painful.
How long does the procedure take?
After consultation, filler injections typically take 15-30 minutes.
How much recovery time do I need?
No recovery time is needed. However, bruising is a possibility with any injection.
What are the side effects?
Most patients tolerate Voluma well with no side effects. However, risks exist with all medications and procedures. The most common of these side effects include, but are not limited to redness, pain/tenderness, swelling, bruises, discoloration, firmness, lumps/bumps, and itching at the injection site. Please visit Allergan’s website for additional side effects.
Where can Voluma be injected?
Voluma is a hyaluronic acid filler that is usually used in the cheeks, however it may be used in other areas that can be discussed during your FREE consultation.
What can I do to reduce the risk of bruising?
Patients should try to avoid fish oil, flax seed oil, multivitamins, NSAID’s such as Ibuprofen and alcohol (including beer wine and liquor) at least 3 days before injections. You should consult with your physician about stopping aspirin, coumadin or other blood-thinning medications. These medications increase the risks of bruising and should be stopped about 7 days before your injections if possible.
Some over-the-counter remedies that help reduce bruising in my patients are Arnica Montana and Bromelain. Arnica Montana should be taken at least 2 days before receiving injections. Three tablets are usually placed under the tongue. Bromelain is a substance found in pineapples and helps prevent bruising. Some of my patients eat pineapple or drink pineapple juice 2 days before receiving in injections.
How much does Voluma cost?
This depends on the amount of volume loss and the number of areas treated. The cost starts at $700 for the first syringe. Any additional syringe purchased within one month of the first purchased syringe will be discounted to $600. Patients typically start with two syringes of Voluma.
Any post care instructions?
Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours, direct sunlight, excessive heat, strenuous exercise all of which can cause additional bruising.
If you develop a bruise, it will resolve like any other bruise. It is ok to use cold compresses but avoid direct skin contact with ice. Any lumps, bumps, or small puncture marks should subside within a few hours. It is ok to cover the areas with makeup if needed. If you have any questions after your injections, call me with your concerns.
I’m afraid of looking overdone
It is best to take a conservative approach with cheek fillers to give you naturally looking results. Fillers should be used to correct volume and restore youth in the face without appearing unnatural.
What if I don’t like the result?
If you do not like the result, an enzyme can be injected at the site to breakdown Voluma.
DO NOT USE VOLUMA IF:
- You have an active skin injection including cold sores.
- Are pregnant or breast-feeding.
- Have had reactions to Voluma in the past.
- Have a history of keloid scarring
