Part of the Juvederm family, Voluma is a gel-based dermal filler designed to specifically add volume and restore contour to cheeks. Chicago plastic surgeon, Dr. Karol Gutowski, injects Voluma to provide a slightly lifted appearance in the apples of the cheeks, which have deflated due to aging. In addition, Dr. Gutowski recommends this as a viable alternative to patients who do not wish to have the more permanent cheek implants. Not only is volume added, but wrinkles and lines in the treatment area disappear. The effects of Voluma can last up to 2 years.
[testimonial_view id=”6″]
Voluma is injected into the skin with fine needles, so some patients may experience some minor pain from the initial prick. Numbing creams may be applied on the injection site to ease the patient’s discomfort. Patients also have the option to use lidocaine, which is mixed with the Voluma solution, to help provide anesthetic effects in and around the area. A treatment may last up to 30 minutes. Patients will be able to return to daily activities after several hours. There may be some swelling, discoloration and tenderness around the cheeks, but will subside after a few days. Results are readily evident, and can last up to 2 years.
Hyaluronic acid, Voluma’s main ingredient, is derived from natural substances found in the human body. Its main function is cell hydration, and with its cross-linking abilities, it is generally useful in helping facial areas that lack volume. Over time, the gel substance breaks down and is absorbed naturally by the body without any side effects.
Those who seek improved volume in the cheeks may consider Voluma as a noninvasive solution. The lack of cheek volume may be due to aging or the patient’s natural facial structure. The doctor will be able to recommend if Voluma is the best option during the initial consultation.
Right after treatment, patients will be able to resume to their normal routine with restriction on strenuous activities or any movement that may put pressure on the treated area. It may take up to 1 week before the derma filler settles within the cheek pockets.
Among derma fillers available in the market today, Voluma can last up to 2 years or longer. Reinjection varies as patients’ bodies process and break down hyaluronic acid at different rates.
[xyz-ips snippet=”NonSurgical-Procedures”]