Q: I hear there is a new filler on the market called Voluma. How is it different from other fillers?

A: Voluma, produced by the makers of Botox™ Cosmetic and Juvederm (Allergan), is the first injectable filler indicated to temporarily correct age related volume loss in the cheek area in adults over age 21. Although it has been used in Europe and Canada for years, it was recently FDA approved in the U.S. October. It represents a major step forward in the realm of cosmetic injectable treatments because it marks a shift away from just filling lines to actually addressing volume loss in the mid face which occurs gradually as we age. A single treatment with Voluma gives instant gratification which can last up to 2 years. Although traditional fillers and Sculptra have been used off-label to address volume loss for years, we now have an on-label approval.
When selecting a physician to perform your treatments, be sure to select someone with experience who understands facial anatomy. I have seen far too many people coming in looking over-plumped or over stuffed! When I discuss facial rejuvenative treatments with my patients, I want them to understand the need to look natural and the importance of reshaping the face and replacing lost volume. It’s much more complex than just filling in lines — some areas on the face need superficial correction and other areas require deeper volumization.
Mary Hurley, MD