Juvéderm Volbella is an injectable gel designed to augment the lips and fill fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth (perioral rhytids).
The FDA-approved formula has a lower concentration of hyaluronic acid than previous injectables, providing patients a smoother, longer lasting result than experienced with previous Juvéderm fillers. The result is subtle volume to the lips and a softening of perioral lines.
Procedure Walk-through
- Preparation: Begin preparing for your procedure at least two weeks ahead of time, especially if you take blood thinning medications or smoke. Blood thinning medications include NSAIDs like aspirin and Ibuprofen as well as certain vitamins and supplements like Gingko biloba. Stop smoking and increase hydration both before and after your procedure to aid in healing.
- Anesthesia: This procedure does not require anesthesia, as the gel itself contains the numbing agent lidocaine. However, you may request a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
- Preoperative Consult: During your consultation, Dr. Vallecillos discusses your goals with treatment and helps you set reasonable expectations. He also looks at your full medical history, including any medications you take and previous procedures. With this procedure, in particular, sharing any history of allergic reactions is important, as is whether you are on an immunosuppressive therapy regimen. This is also the time to ask any procedural questions you have. Finally, the doctor provides both pre-and postoperative instructions.
Volbella
Dr. Vallecillos prepares the treatment area, including applying a topical numbing agent if requested. He then uses a very fine needle to inject Volbella into the treatment area. Results are visible immediately following the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a candidate for Volbella?
Adults over the age of 21 are approved for this treatment. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or allergic to lidocaine, you should not receive Volbella injections.
What is the recovery time for Volbella?
You may immediately return to your normal activities after treatment. However, for the first 24 hours, abstain from alcohol and avoid strenuous activities. In addition, avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat or the sun. Apply sunscreen generously to the treatment area whenever going outside during these first 24 hours. You may apply makeup 12 hours after treatment.
Are there risks or side effects associated with Volbella?
All injectable procedures come with the risk of infection. There is also the risk of accidental injection into a blood vessel. This is rare, but complications may be permanent and include vision problems, stroke, and scarring.
Common side effects include bruising, discoloration, itching, lumps/bumps, pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness. These side effects are typically mild and disappear within the first few weeks.
How long do the results last?
Results last up to 12 months.