Injectable dermal fillers are delivered just under the skin to restore volume and improve facial contours where collagen has been lost. In the past, dermal filler treatment options were limited, typically involving collagen replacement which lasted less than six months. Today’s injectables are formulated for longer-lasting effects and Juvederm Voluma has been shown to last up to two years for some. Dr. Trenkle and her staff of qualified medical professionals at Ingrid E. Trenkle, MD, Inc. in Redlands, CA are proud to offer this treatment along with a comprehensive menu of companion services.
Does Voluma Really Lift the Face?
This treatment is formulated using hyaluronic acid (HA), a molecule naturally occurring in the body. As we age, the production of hyaluronic acid slows down, causing the skin to lose hydration and stretch thinner. High-mobility areas such as the mouth, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines are usually most affected.
When injected into these areas, this product lifts and plumps the skin while tightening the epidermal layer (the outermost layer of skin). It is a thicker, stronger gel than other products in the Juvederm family, thus it is injected more deeply into the skin. Because of this, it resists migration and can be massaged into facial contours to instantly improve the skin and lift the face.
How Is Voluma Different?
Hyaluronic Acid: An Overview
Hyaluronic Acid is a molecule that can hold almost one thousand times its weight in water, which is what makes it such an important agent of hydration. The higher the percentage of HA in a product’s solution, the thicker the gel. The thicker the gel, the longer the product resists breaking down in the body.
Some research shows that long-term use of HA can actually stimulate the body’s own production of collagen while also encouraging improved nutrient transfer. This helps promote better skin resilience and faster healing from environmental damage and ultraviolet exposure. Along with its hydrating effects, evidence of HA’s long-term benefits make it a unique ingredient for skin rejuvenation treatment.
Vycross Technology
Juvederm uses hyaluronic acid that has undergone a process using Vycross technology, which makes its chain of sugars stronger and more resistant to breaking down. In this process, the HA molecules of various weights are bonded tightly together, creating a thick, viscous gel. This is what allows the product to stay put and give the middle and upper cheeks that signature long-lasting contour.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
While Voluma was specifically intended as a cheek filler, it has also been used to successfully lift and firm the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth, also called the nasolabial folds (NSFs). These folds succumb to gravity over time, sagging and drooping more as they lose collagen. Similarly, since the lower face is susceptible to frowning (or descending) lines, many doctors are using this product to treat the mouth, chin, and jawline.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Treatment?
Almost anyone over the age of 21 who is dissatisfied with the effects of aging can benefit from injectable dermal fillers. While most people who seek treatment are over age 30, younger men and women may experience sagging skin due to heredity, weight loss, and many other factors. In addition, many people are not good candidates for cosmetic surgery and turn to dermal fillers as a non-invasive option with long-lasting benefits.
Benefits of Juvederm Voluma
Longer-Lasting
Juvederm’s Vycross technology builds a more stable molecule by cross-linking lower-weight and higher-weight hyaluronic acid molecules, which enhances its durability. Since Voluma consists of a high-concentration gel, it lasts almost twice as long as other hyaluronic acid products. Many people have seen results lasting up to two years.
Non-Invasive
Ultrafine needles deliver the hyaluronic acid gel into the skin’s layers, giving a great deal of accuracy over a small surface area. Because the product is formulated with lidocaine, a skin-numbing agent, most patients report little to no discomfort during treatment. In addition, since the key ingredients in this product are not sourced from animals, adverse reactions are very rare. Typically if there are any reactions at all, they are due to other compounds in the product, such as the lidocaine.
Combines With Other Treatments
Hyaluronic acid treatments pair well with other cosmetic services such as chemical peels, laser treatments, and other types of facials. The key to successful combination treatments is timing. Dr. Trenkle and her qualified team are experts at scheduling companion services to achieve your desired results.
Convenient
Injectable dermal fillers are given in-office and are considered an outpatient service. Most sessions last under an hour and most people are free to immediately return to their normal daily activities. In addition, since Voluma lasts longer than other HA products, there are fewer maintenance treatments required. Fewer office visits mean less time and money expenditure.
Immediate Results
Upon injection of the gel, results are instantly noticeable. Moderate to severe fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed out immediately as they assimilate into the skin. Because of this product’s plumping and lifting effects, it not only restores volume but also hides other flaws such as acne scars, blood vessels, and environmental damage. It instantly brightens shadowy and sunken areas of the face, giving the convenience of fast results.
Many people also report an even more noticeable improvement after one to three weeks, after the hyaluronic acid settles further into the skin. Some swelling or redness at the injection sites may occur temporarily, but usually, patients are allowed to resume their use of personal care products and makeup within 24 hours of treatment. Dr. Trenkle will advise you of easy-to-follow aftercare treatment to get the most out of your results.
Variables Affecting Individual Results
Age and Lifestyle
As with many things, age plays a role in your body’s resiliency. It stands to reason that younger skin will take to rejuvenation treatments more quickly and effectively than mature skin. Likewise, skin that has been exposed to environmental damage, harsh conditions, or unhealthy lifestyle choices will likely show less resilience than skin that has been protected from these conditions. High levels of stress can put the body’s functions on the defense and affects how well it responds to therapeutics.
In addition, unhealthy habits such as smoking will actually accelerate the aging process and slow down the healing process. Making positive, healthy choices allow your body it’s best chance to store the energy reserves needed to assimilate beneficial treatments. Observing your lifestyle choices and introducing healthy habits can enhance the longevity of your desired results.
Injection Location
High-mobility areas of the face such as the mouth, lips, and nasolabial folds metabolize hyaluronic acid products more quickly than static areas like the nose. Constant muscle movement and stretching of the skin will encourage more breaking down of the product. Therefore, it makes sense that areas with less movement will see longer-lasting results.
Amount of Product
Similarly, areas that receive more product will also see longer-lasting results. While locations that are treated with less hyaluronic acid will experience a faster break-down rate, Juvederm’s Vycross technology makes Voluma the best choice due to its molecular stability and durability.
Experienced Professionals
Don’t put your skin’s health in the hands of inexperienced professionals. Incorrect application of injectable dermal fillers can leave you with skin that is tight, asymmetrical, and even restricted. You deserve the highest quality of treatment, and it goes without saying that your results are only as good as your administering professional. Dr. Trenkle and her team of experts are substantially trained in injectable dermal filler treatments.
Your Treatment Session: What To Expect
The Consultation
In the consultation, Dr. Trenkle will ask you about any skin treatments you are currently receiving as well as what medications (both prescribed and over-the-counter) you may be taking. She will assess your skin and inquire about your treatment history, such as chemical peels or surgical procedures you have had. This information helps her develop a personalized treatment plan to optimize your results.
Preparation and Pre-Treatment
In preparation for your session, you may want to spend some time writing down any questions or concerns you have. Dr. Trenkle and her qualified team make your comfort a top priority. There are a few guidelines and precautions you may be advised to follow in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
It is important to take especially good care of your skin prior to treatment. Wearing sunscreen, minimizing irritating habits such as bleaching or tanning, and avoiding retinol products (or any other product that may dry out the skin) can go a long way to extend your treatment results. Avoiding alcohol and blood-thinning medications can also reduce your chances of bruising after your session.
During Your Session
Your appointment should take less than an hour and should be painless and quick. The lidocaine formulation minimizes discomfort and allows the tiny, ultrafine needles to painlessly deliver the gel just under the outermost layer of your skin Dr. Trenkle will massage the product into the skin to encourage a smooth appearance and ensure symmetry. If you happen to be particularly sensitive, Dr. Trenkle may recommend the use of an approved pain reliever or offer breaks between injections.
Post-Treatment
You may notice some redness and tenderness after treatment, which is to be expected. Applying an ice bag to the area two to three times a day can help with this, as well as avoiding intense heat and exercise for the first day or two after your session. In the 48 hours following treatment, it is a good idea to avoid anything that could be irritating to the skin, such as plucking, shaving, or bleaching.
It is also a good idea to continue following the same guidelines as in the pre-treatment stage, including avoiding ultraviolet exposure, alcohol, and over-the-counter blood-thinning medications. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately and any lingering redness should subside within a week.
Recovery
In the days and weeks following your session, it is important to drink lots of water and ensure that the skin receives the nutrients it needs. Prioritizing and developing a consistent skincare routine will enhance and extend the effectiveness of your treatment. Taking good care of your skin and protecting it from harsh elements is necessary for lengthening the longevity of your results.
Keep in mind, it is normal to experience some redness and swelling for the first day or two after treatment. However, if you continue to experience symptoms after one week, please call Dr. Trenkle’s office for a follow-up appointment.
Stop Time in Its Tracks
Juvederm Voluma’s proven effectiveness and low-risk profile make it a top choice for dermatologists. Regain your confidence and reverse the signs of dull, aging skin. Don’t let time get the best of you – there are always possibilities. Call Dr. Trenkle and her team at Ingrid E. Trenkle, MD, Inc. in Redlands, CA to schedule a consultation today.
