Voluma Earns FDA Approval, Top Doctor Explains Benefits of New Filler
Just in time for the holidays, a new facial filler has been approved by the FDA that promises superior results for the same cost as existing filler Radiesse, and less money (and more predictable results) than Sculptra, a very expensive facial filler that takes a few months to see if it “takes” with the person’s skin.
A brand new type of injectable called Voluma was tested extensively by Dr. Alexander Rivkin, one of the top Cosmetic Surgeons in Los Angeles (www.westsideaesthetics.com) – who was chosen to study Voluma as one of a handful of doctors by the manufacturer, Allergan (makers of Botox).
Dr. Rivkin was part of a select group taken to Vancouver to train and test this amazing breakthrough product for the US markets and he was also selected by Allergan to train other medical professionals in the United States.
But what is Voluma and how is it different from other similar products on the market today? Dr. Rivkin broke it down for us:
What makes it different from other injectables?
Dr. Rivkin: This is a filler that gives your face volume not just by filling in lines. It fills out the sunken look that comes with aging. We know that volume loss is a big component in aging with patients looking hollow or empty. They complain that their “face is falling”. Voluma, according to Dr. Rivkin, is the best product for replacing volume in the face. It has been used in Europe and Canada for many years and it has finally been approved for the US market. It is a game changer in the aesthetic field. For the first time we will have a product that refills the volume lost with age and is reversible at any time.
How long does it last?
Dr. Rivkin: 18 months to two years
Is it reversible?
Dr. Rivkin: Yes, with injection of a special enzyme called hyaluronidase.
Why Voluma instead of other fillers like Juvederm and Restylane?
Dr. Rivkin: It lasts longer — up to two years. It is reversible (unlike Radiesse and Sculptra). It gives more volume than anything else on the market. Cost effective over time (it costs a bit more than Juvederm and Radiesse, but will last at least twice as long)
How does it compare to other popular fillers like Radiesse and Sculptra?
Dr. Rivkin: Radiesse does not last as long. Sculptra requires three sessions to see results (with each session costing $1000 to 3,000).
What about using the patient’s own fat as a facial filler instead of Voluma?
Dr. Rivkin: Fat can work well but is unreliable, and it is a surgical procedure. If anything goes wrong, then it is very hard to repair. Fat lasts anywhere from four months to 20 years, so it’s unpredictable.
Does it reactivate collagen?
Dr. Rivkin: Voluma stimulates collagen. This is part of the “volumizing” effect
How much do you need to use?
Dr Rivkin: Depends on the need but usually two syringes is enough to make you look years younger.
How much does it cost?
Dr. Rivkin: Voluma will probably cost about $800 to 900 per syringe. In comparison, Juvederm costs about $650 per syringe. (And a facelift might cost upwards of $20K)
