Introduction to Juvéderm Voluma

Juvéderm Voluma is a well - known dermal filler that has gained popularity in the field of cosmetic medicine, especially in New York City. It is a technologically advanced hyaluronic acid - based product. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar complex in the skin that retains water and moisture, contributing to a supple and youthful appearance. As we age, the body produces hyaluronic acid at a decreased rate, leading to the development of signs of aging such as fine lines, skin laxity, and loss of volume.

Juvéderm Voluma was specifically designed to address these issues, especially in the cheek area. It was first approved by the FDA in 2013 and is currently one of the most popular fillers in the Juvéderm family. The main ingredient is hyaluronic acid, and it also contains lidocaine, an anesthetic that acts locally to make the injection procedure more comfortable for patients. Allergan, the creator of Juvéderm Voluma, formulated it with Vycross technology, which allows the filler to lift and restore volume loss in the face, creating immediate and natural - looking results.

Benefits of Juvéderm Voluma

• Replenishing Volume: It can effectively replenish the lost volume in the mid - face, such as the cheeks. This helps to restore a more youthful and plump appearance. For example, as people age, the natural fat pads in the cheeks tend to shrink, causing the face to look gaunt. Juvéderm Voluma can reverse this process by adding volume to the cheeks, giving a more rounded and youthful contour.
• Reducing Signs of Aging: By restoring volume, it also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the mid - face area. The increased volume provides support to the skin, making the surface smoother and reducing the visibility of these signs of aging.
• Chin Augmentation: In addition to its use in the cheeks, Juvéderm Voluma XC was FDA - approved for chin augmentation in June 2020. It can add projection and definition to the chin, improving the overall facial profile. Patients with a “weak” or receding chin can achieve a more contoured jawline with Juvéderm Voluma injections.
• Long - Lasting Results: When injected into the cheeks, the results of Juvéderm Voluma can last up to two years, and when used on the chin, it can last for up to one year. This makes it a cost - effective option compared to some other fillers that may require more frequent touch - ups.
• Non - Surgical Option: It offers a non - surgical alternative to plastic surgery for facial rejuvenation. This means less downtime, lower risk, and a quicker recovery compared to surgical procedures such as a facelift.

Candidates for Juvéderm Voluma Injections

A good candidate for Juvéderm Voluma XC injections is a man or woman who is 21 years or older and in overall good health. They should not be allergic to any of the filler components and should not be pregnant or breastfeeding. Patients of all ages may find that their mid - face lacks the volume they desire. The natural aging process, genetics, smoking, or environmental factors can contribute to this volume loss. Younger patients may want to add volume and contour to the cheek area for enhanced definition, while older patients with increased skin laxity and significant volume loss usually require a more substantial amount of dermal filler to replace the lost volume and smooth the skin.

How a Doctor Determines Eligibility

When a patient consults with a board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, the doctor will first review the patient's complete medical history, surgical history, and current medication profile. This is important to identify any potential risks or contraindications. Then, the doctor will physically assess the cheek area and other potential treatment areas. They will discuss with the patient which facial features they would like to treat and what their aesthetic goals are. Based on this assessment, the doctor can determine whether the patient is a suitable candidate for Juvéderm Voluma injections and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The Injection Procedure

Initial Consultation

During the initial cosmetic consultation, which usually takes place in a private dermatology or plastic surgery office, the patient has the opportunity to discuss their skin care concerns in detail. The doctor will review the patient's previous cosmetic treatments, if any, including dermal filler injections, laser treatments, and plastic surgery. This information helps the doctor understand the patient's history and any potential reactions or complications they may have had in the past. The doctor will then explain all the available treatment options, including the number of syringes and the type of Juvéderm dermal filler product needed. They will also discuss the expected results and the prices for the complete treatment, ensuring that the patient has a clear understanding of what to expect before the procedure.

Preparation for the Procedure

On the day of the procedure, a topical numbing cream is typically applied to the mid - face and cheek area about one hour before the injections. This helps to minimize discomfort during the procedure. When the patient arrives at the office, the treatment area is cleaned with alcohol to prevent infection. Photographs may be taken before the cosmetic procedure for the patient's private record, which can be used to track the results over time.

The Injection Process

The doctor uses very small needles to inject the Juvéderm Voluma. They take a gentle approach to avoid any bruising or discomfort. The hyaluronic acid gel is carefully injected into the targeted areas, such as the cheeks or chin, to achieve the desired volume and contour. After the injections are completed, the doctor may massage the treated areas to distribute the product evenly. Ice packs are then applied to the treatment area immediately to reduce side effects like swelling.

What to Expect After the Injections

Immediate Aftermath

After receiving Juvéderm Voluma filler from an expert injector, the process is generally quick and painless. However, there are some mild side effects that patients should expect. The most common side effects are mild swelling and bruising at or near the injection sites. The swelling may resemble small lumps or bumps. These side effects are normal and usually resolve independently within 1 - 2 weeks. Other possible side effects may include redness, soreness, and discoloration at the treatment area. In many cases, ice can be used to reduce any swelling or bruising.

Long - Term Results

Juvéderm Voluma takes around two weeks to settle and reveal the full cosmetic results. During this time, the filler becomes integrated with the skin tissue in the treatment area. Once settled, the patient can enjoy a more youthful appearance with restored volume and enhanced facial contours. The results can last up to two years in the cheeks and up to one year in the chin, but this can vary depending on factors such as the patient's metabolism and lifestyle.

Follow - up and Touch - ups

The doctor may request the patient to return in two weeks to re - evaluate the results and see if a touch - up is needed. Some patients may choose to have yearly touch - up treatments to maintain the consistently stunning results from this popular filler. The touch - up treatments can help to keep the volume and contour of the face looking fresh and youthful.

Side Effects and Safety of Juvéderm Voluma

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of Juvéderm Voluma are temporary redness, swelling, lumps, tenderness, discoloration, or bruising at the injection site. Even though a small needle is used to inject the product deep into the dermis, irritation can often occur at the injection site. These side effects usually resolve independently within two weeks of injections. To prevent swelling, patients are usually advised to discontinue all blood - thinning medications and supplements, including aspirin, ibuprofen, motrin, advil, and vitamin E, two weeks before their filler treatment. Patients who are particularly prone to bruising may choose to take arnika, an oral herbal supplement, for several days before their dermal filler injections to prevent bruising.

Serious Side Effects

Although rare, there are two other potential serious side effects: infection and occlusion. Infection can occur if proper sterile techniques are not followed during the injection procedure. Occlusion happens when the filler blocks a blood vessel, which can lead to tissue damage if not treated immediately. If either of these events occurs, they require immediate medical attention.

Safety of Juvéderm Voluma

Juvéderm Voluma has received FDA approval, which means that the US Food and Drug Administration has deemed it safe and effective for its intended purpose. However, the safety of the treatment also depends on the injector. When performed by an experienced, board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon, the risks of an adverse reaction are relatively low. On the other hand, the risks increase when an inexperienced injector, such as a nurse injector at a medspa, performs the injections. Patients should always disclose their medical history, including any allergies, during the initial consultation. They should also thoroughly research their injector before scheduling an appointment to ensure they receive treatment from a qualified and experienced practitioner.

Cost of Juvéderm Voluma

The cost of Juvéderm Voluma can vary depending on several factors. The price per syringe of Juvéderm Voluma in New York City generally ranges from $1,200 to $1,800. The total cost also depends on the number of syringes needed, which is determined by the patient's facial anatomy, the severity of volume loss, and the desired cosmetic results. Treating the cheeks alone versus treating the chin and cheeks will require different amounts of filler, and thus different costs. Additionally, the cost may be higher when a board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is performing the injection compared to a nurse injector. However, it is important to note that choosing an experienced injector can reduce the risk of developing unwanted cosmetic results and severe side effects.

Combining Juvéderm Voluma with Other Procedures

Many patients choose to combine Juvéderm Voluma with other non - invasive procedures for overall facial rejuvenation. Here are some common combinations:

Botox

Botox is one of the most popular non - invasive injection treatments in the United States. It is the gold standard for preventing and eliminating dynamic wrinkles, which are fine lines that appear over time due to repeated facial movements. Botox is a neuromodulator that is injected into muscles to limit their contractions, leading to a smoother texture. While Juvéderm Voluma addresses volume loss and sagging skin, Botox targets dynamic wrinkles. Many patients have Botox and Juvéderm Voluma injections during the same appointment to target both age - related volume loss and dynamic fine lines.

Vbeam Laser Treatment

The Vbeam laser treatment targets the pigmentation in facial redness, pigmented acne scars, rosacea, surgical scars, and stretch marks to reveal a more even skin tone. It releases a burst of light with a 595 - nanometer wavelength to target the red pigment in blood vessels. The energy is converted into heat in the skin and absorbed by the compounds responsible for the red color. Dr. Michele Green often performs Vbeam and Juvéderm Voluma injections in the same appointment for her patients to give them a refreshed look.

Thermage

The Thermage treatment utilizes radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin. It is the gold standard for laser skin tightening and is used to encourage the production of new collagen in the skin with no downtime. When volume loss causes sagging and lax skin, Dr. Green often performs dermal filler injections and Thermage treatment together to achieve better results.

Fraxel

Fraxel is a skin resurfacing laser treatment often recommended for patients who suffer from the consequences of sun damage. It can improve skin tone and texture concerns, treat various skin concerns such as sun spots, unwanted hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and deep wrinkles. Fraxel can be combined with Juvéderm Voluma for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, and most patients experience mild side effects with almost no downtime.

Comparisons with Other Dermal Fillers

Juvéderm Ultra vs. Juvéderm Voluma

Juvéderm Voluma has a thick, gel - like consistency compared to Juvéderm Ultra. The thick consistency of Juvéderm Voluma makes it well - suited to replenishing loss of volume and contour in the midface, which requires more support. Juvéderm Ultra, on the other hand, has a smoother, lighter consistency, making it well - suited to treating fine lines and lip augmentation.

Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC vs. Juvéderm Voluma XC

Juvéderm Voluma is ideal for addressing signs of aging in the cheek area and for chin augmentation. Juvéderm Ultra Plus XC is a dermal filler primarily used to treat the nasolabial folds (laugh lines). Juvéderm Ultra Plus is a thinner filler that smooths the lines, while Juvéderm Voluma adds volume and plumps.

Juvéderm Vollure vs. Juvéderm Voluma

Juvéderm Vollure is a thinner filler that is injected superficially into the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and smile lines to smooth and soften the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. Juvéderm Voluma is a thicker filler that adds volume and shape to the midface and chin.

Well - Reputed Hospitals for Juvéderm Voluma in New York City

When it comes to getting Juvéderm Voluma injections in New York City, choosing a well - reputed hospital or medical facility is crucial for ensuring a safe and effective treatment. Here are some of the top - ranked hospitals in New York City:

These hospitals have highly qualified doctors and staff who are experienced in performing cosmetic procedures, including Juvéderm Voluma injections. Their reputation for quality care and expertise makes them reliable choices for patients seeking Juvéderm Voluma treatments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Juvéderm Voluma is a highly effective and popular dermal filler for facial rejuvenation, especially in the cheek area and for chin augmentation. It offers numerous benefits such as replenishing volume, reducing signs of aging, providing long - lasting results, and being a non - surgical option. However, it is important for patients to choose a qualified and experienced injector and a well - reputed hospital or medical facility for their treatments. The cost of the treatment can vary, but considering the long - term results and the improvement in appearance, it can be a worthwhile investment for many patients. By understanding the procedure, the potential side effects, and the available combination options, patients can make an informed decision