Frequently Asked Questions: Juvéderm Volbella
Dr Lisa Fay answers your questions
Juvéderm Volbella is a dermal filler from the well-respected Juvéderm range.
It’s used to treat delicate areas in the face, such as lips and the under-eye region (or ‘tear trough’).
Volbella is formulated with Vycross technology, giving it a smooth and soft consistency.
It differs from the other products in the Juvéderm range with cross-linking; the process of chemically binding the hyaluronic acid’s individual chains to transform them into a long-lasting gel.
This allows Juvéderm to develop specific fillers with an appropriate consistency for use on targeted areas of the face.
It is extremely important to get Volbella treatments from an experienced cosmetic doctor, as the injections are more complex to perform than some other dermal fillers.
How does Volbella work?
Volbella is formulated as a gel, containing hyaluronic acid (HA) which adds volume in the area it is injected.
HA is a substance produced naturally in the body. Its most important feature is its ability to attract and retain a lot of moisture. A single gram of HA can hold up to six litres of moisture.
As we age our skin cannot retain moisture, as production of our own HA slows. Skin becomes dry and wrinkles more noticeable. Natural collagen and elastin production also slows, and the result is lax, sagging skin.
HA is used in dermal filler to supplement and augment areas of the face that have lost volume. Its immediate effect is to restore moisture retention to the area to plump it up, and revitalise the skin’s outer layer for a smooth, soft appearance.
What areas does Volbella treat?
Volbella can be used in the tear trough area, the curved depression running under the eye.
It replaces lost volume and eliminates the hollow, shadowed look that makes you appear tired and old.
Volbella is also used in the lips, to add fullness to thinning lips and to fill ‘smoker’s lines’ – the little wrinkles radiating outwards from the mouth. In the lips it can also be used to restore definition or to correct asymmetry.
Do Volbella injections hurt?
Volbella contains 0.3 lidocaine, an anaesthetic that lessens the pain at the injection site.
You may also request further topical anaesthetic to make the procedure even more comfortable.
Depending on the area being treated, we may need to inject the filler quite deeply in the skin. However, to further minimise any discomfort, it’s important that you remain still while we are injecting the filler.
Will I have bruising or swelling after Volbella?
You will notice some degree of bruising and possibly swelling, as with most injectables. The amount depends on your skin type and propensity to bruise.
All minor reactions will resolve fairly quickly, on their own.
If you do experience an adverse responses to Volbella, we can reverse the HA filler injection immediately with an injection of hyaluronidase.
Is there any down time?
You can resume your normal activities after the procedure. However, we recommend you avoid strenuous activity, exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat for about 24 hours.
You should also not drink alcohol for 24 hours after the treatment session.
These are precautions that we recommend after every cosmetic procedure.
Are there any side effects?
You may experience minor irritation, swelling or a mild itchiness at the injection sites.
These side effects should resolve in a couple of days.
You should not rub or massage the area after Volbella injections, as you need to allow the filler to settle.
How soon before an event can I have treatment?
If you have an upcoming event, we recommend you schedule your treatment session at least a week beforehand.
This will give any bruising, swelling or side effects time to settle before you have to look your best.
How will I know if I am a good candidate for Volbella?
Before starting a course of treatment, we will need to arrange a consultation and examination of your skin.
Your bone structure and facial musculature will help Cosmetic Doctor us determine if you are an appropriate candidate.
We will also discuss your expectations and concerns with you, so that you have a good idea of what to expect as a result of your treatment.
How long does Volbella last?
Juvéderm Volbella can last up to a year, but it depends on the patient as everyone is unique.
It may depend on your overall health as well as on your skin care, your age and your nutrition.
Book your consultation at Cosmetic Doctor and Dr. Fay to find out how you can achieve a beautifully rejuvenated look. Call us on 01 685 3100
