There are so many injectable products available today that it may feel challenging to determine which is right for you. The common nature of hyaluronic acid fillers, such as the Juvéderm family, can make this decision even more complicated. Why would so many fillers be formulated with the same base ingredient? And when they are, what makes one any better than the next? We get a lot of questions about the differences between Voluma and other fillers from clients who visit our La Mesa or Murrieta location. So we want to dive in a little deeper to explain 3 key characteristics of this filler.
Usage
Voluma was developed with specific intent, to settle into the deep dermal tissue that sit next to the facial bones. The unique chemical makeup and viscosity of this particular filler is appropriate for areas of the face that need more than a little support. FDA-approval of the drug has focused on the mid-face and the restoration of volume. So, right there we have a unique difference: Voluma has not been made to fill lines and creases; it has been developed to add volume.
Historically, the decrease in volume across the cheeks has been notoriously difficult. One may have a facelift to tighten and reposition tissue, but this does nothing for volume restoration. The cheeks to not “fill out” after a facelift. They can, however, be rounded with the precision use of Voluma; and when this happens, there is a secondary benefit on the lower part of the face. Because Voluma adds volume, it lifts superficial tissue. When this tissue is lifted across the mid-face, it relieves the sagging that may have developed along the jaw line.
Texture
It is the texture of Voluma that enables skilled injectors to use this product as they do. You could liken the difference between Voluma and other hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvéderm Ultra XC, to the difference between Jell-O and pudding. The thicker consistency of Voluma is achieved with cross-linking, a technique that binds individual strings of hyaluronic acid together for viscosity and longevity in the skin.
Longevity
And this is the third characteristic that makes Voluma an excellent choice for patients wanting a refresher on their appearance. The cross-linking of Voluma means that it takes longer for the body to break down the product once it has settled in the skin. Don’t worry, Voluma is still hyaluronic acid, so it can be reversed! Left to metabolize on its own, this filler will gradually diminish over about 2 years.
Understanding the differences between Voluma and other hyaluronic acid fillers is an important aspect of recognizing the value of this treatment.
Is it time to refresh your face for Spring? Contact our La Mesa office at 619-589-0028. Here, you can also schedule a visit for Voluma in our Murrieta practice.