Allergan’s JUVEDERM VOLUMA XC Gets FDA Approval, Staking Its Claim in the Facial Filler Marketplace
What is Voluma?
Cosmetic dermatologists, aestheticians, and facial plastic surgeons like Dr. Honrado are anxiously anticipating stocking their shelves with the latest mid-face volumizer, Juvederm Voluma XC. This newly FDA approved filler from Allergan, the makers of Botox, claims to “temporarily correct age-related volume loss in the cheek area of adults over the age of 21.”
What can patients expect from Voluma?
Already in use in many countries, cosmetic doctors in the U.S. are excited about the clearance of this new cheek filler. It is being touted as the injectable that will revolutionize the way doctors address facial volume loss. It is the first hyaluronic acid (HA) to receive FDA approval for the scaffolding of cheeks and the region just above the cheekbone, restoring volume to fat pads for 18-24 months.
Why all the hype about Voluma?
Voluma’s longevity, double that of Restylane, is extremely long for an HA, making it alluring for patients who don’t want to come in more than once a year for touch ups.
Who is candidate for Voluma?
Loss of volume, hollowing and sagging skin in the mid-face region is one of the earliest signs of aging resulting from a combination of fat and bone absorption. Voluma has a thicker, more viscous substance (technically called it’s “G Prime”) than Juvederm Ultra. Patients with average to severe cheek volume loss are perfect candidates for the on-label filler.
What makes Voluma different from other fillers?
The higher the G Prime, the greater the ability for the filler to lift and support skin and surrounding structures. Voluma’s G Prime is 10 times higher than Juvederm Ultra. It is also infused with the numbing agent lidocaine, allowing for it to be injected at a deeper level above the cheekbone, pain-free. Voluma can be immediately erased with a syringe of the antidote enzyme hyaluronidase if unsatisfied with the results. This knowledge is a huge relief for skeptical patients hesitant to try fillers fearing undesirable results. It is also comforting knowing that any subtle unwanted asymmetry can be immediately corrected.
How much does it cost?
Voluma promises more bang for the buck. Physician prices will range from $800 to $1000 for a one cc-syringe. Patients may require two to four syringes for average volume loss and more for severe hollowing. With the product lasting up to two years, this could end up costing patients significantly less than what they would normally spend in the same time period.
How do I get on the waiting list?
Want to be the first to book a Juvederm Voluma XC appointment with Dr. Carlo? Please sign here and we will put you on the call list as soon as it is in!
Next, take a look with us as we predict the hot procedures in aesthetic and cosmetic medicine for 2014!