How do Volbella XC changes the chin and jawline? Duration and precautions

Volbella XC is a firm hyaluronic acid filler designed to project the chin forward and define the jawline[1][2]. In chin studies, the effect lasted until the time of re-treatment at 18 months, and in jawline studies, improvement was maintained for up to 12 months[3][4]. Western studies had few Asian participants, and similar effects have been confirmed in Chinese studies, a phase where findings are still being validated.[5][6].

How is Volbella XC different from other hyaluronic acids?

Volbella XC is a formulation with strong firmness and cohesion, and the shape is unlikely to break down after injection.[1][3]It is used for the chin and jawline with the purpose of creating support like a bone foundation.[1].

In the United States, it is approved for the purpose of defining the jawline.[2]Expert proposals organize how different people might benefit by dividing them into 5 types.[1].

How much does the chin change?

In a study of 119 people with a recessed chin, the profile angle, appearance as assessed by physicians and patients, and satisfaction all improved.[3]No serious adverse effects were recorded.[3].

In Chinese studies too, improvement lasted one year in people with moderate or greater chin recession.[6]The volume around the chin was maintained at an increase of 3.6 mL even one year later.[6].

Changes in jawline and satisfaction?

In the jawline study, 157 people received injections and 49 people were compared without injections for 6 months.[4]At 6 months, over 70% of people who received injections reported satisfaction with the appearance of the submental area and jawline.[4].

Improvement continued for up to 12 months, and no significant differences in effect were seen based on skin type, age, or sex.[4]Injection sites included the hollows beside the chin point and lines along the jawbone.[7].

What is the expected duration?

In chin studies, the effect lasted until the time of re-treatment at 18 months.[3]Based on expert experience, it is often said to last at least 24 months, but this is not a number confirmed by clinical trials.[3].

Duration varies among individuals and affects cost projections.[3]Before treatment, it is reassuring to discuss how often re-injection might be needed.

What risks are there and how can they be prevented?

In Chinese studies, reactions at the injection site were mild to moderate and temporary.[6]It is said that injecting a large bolus at once or injecting in too shallow a location tends to result in palpability and difficulty in integration.[3].

There have also been reports of inflammation appearing after some time. In a 23-year-old woman who received 4 mL injected into the chin, 70 days after injection and following dental treatment, the chin suddenly swelled with pain and redness.[8]When hyaluronic acid-degrading enzyme (hyaluronidase) is used, symptoms quickly resolve.[8].

This report proposes preventive measures such as limiting the amount injected at one time and injecting in multiple sessions.[8]There are also reports of serious complications if hyaluronic acid enters a blood vessel, causing skin damage or loss of vision.[9].

If severe pain, skin color changes, or vision abnormalities occur after injection, contact your clinic immediately.

What should be confirmed during consultation before treatment?

Whether Volbella XC is suitable depends on the degree of chin recession, the cause of jawline blurring, and overall facial balance.[1]An article alone cannot determine how much and where to inject into your chin.

During the consultation, confirm the amount and location of injection, whether it will be done in multiple sessions, the contact information for when swelling occurs over time, and management with hyaluronidase.