Juvéderm Voluma

Juvéderm Voluma is an FDA-approved dermal filler designed to add volume to the cheeks.

Juvéderm is a brand of hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler, with several products under its umbrella. All Juvéderm fillers are used to minimize the facial signs of aging.

Each product in the Juvéderm line contains different bonding and concentrations of hyaluronic acid, tailored to address specific cosmetic concerns when injected into different areas and depths. Juvéderm fillers have a smooth, gel-like consistency that helps facilitate natural-looking results.

Juvéderm Voluma is great for filling in the hollows in the cheeks, restoring facial contours, and lifting sagging skin. The filler can also restore volume lost due to weight loss.

Patients should speak to their physician to find out if they are a candidate for Juvéderm Voluma.

Before a Juvéderm treatment, patients should speak with a medical professional about their cosmetic goals and expectations. Juvéderm injections are minimally invasive and frequently done on the same day as the consultation. Treatment requires minimal preparation, if any.

Before the consultation and treatment, patients should avoid taking medication like aspirin, ibuprofen, and St. John’s wort. Patients should also refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking in the weeks leading up to treatment. Avoiding these activities and substances can help prevent bruising after injection. Patients should also let their doctor know of any allergies or sensitivities.

Juvéderm’s active ingredient, hyaluronic acid, adds volume to the facial tissue. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body that stimulates collagen production, the connective tissue that plumps the skin. With age, the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen decreases and leads to the appearance of sagging and wrinkling of the facial skin.

During the procedure, the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse may use a pen to mark the treatment area. The doctor will then inject Juvéderm into the target area and lightly massage the area to ensure even distribution and reduce the risk of swelling. The entire procedure will last between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.

Juvéderm injections also contain a small amount of pain-reducing lidocaine which helps minimize discomfort during treatment.

After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling and bruising. Other common side effects include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Lumps or bumps
• Minor pain
• Tenderness

All of these side effects typically last no more than two to four weeks.

More serious side effects are typically associated with lack of experience. Unintentionally injecting Juvéderm into a blood vessel, for example, could lead to complications such as permanent scarring, vision abnormalities, blindness, or stroke. That’s why it’s important to choose a doctor wisely. Patients should make sure the doctor is trained, certified, and licensed to perform the procedure.

Recovery time after treatment is minimal. However, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, excessive exposure to sun and heat, wearing makeup, and consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours after treatment.

Most patients notice the effects of Juvéderm right away, or after the swelling reduces. Results can last up to two years.