Voluma XC (Hyaluronic Acid - Allergan)

What is Voluma XC?

Voluma XC (Juvéderm Voluma XC) is a hyaluronic acid preparation for aesthetic injection developed by Allergan. Using the company's proprietary Vycross (Vycross) crosslinking technology, low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid are mixed and crosslinked at optimal ratios, achieving higher viscoelasticity and long-term durability compared to conventional products. It is approved in over 90 countries worldwide primarily as a preparation suitable for volume restoration in the cheeks, temples, and jawline area, and has obtained regulatory approval in Japan.

Scientific evidence for volume loss due to aging and injection treatment

With aging, facial adipose tissue, bone, and skin collagen each independently atrophy and shift. In particular, the reduction in the volume of fat compartments in the cheek area causes loss of cheekbone prominence, deepening of nasolabial folds, and a hollowed appearance of the face. Guidelines published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2022, DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjac007) conclude that "cheek projection and fullness of the upper cheek significantly contribute to a youthful appearance. Hyaluronic acid fillers are the first-choice treatment for cheek rejuvenation with immediate effects and minimal downtime." Voluma XC is a high viscoelasticity filler designed for the purpose of facial volume restoration.

Vycross Technology and Safety of BDDE Crosslinking

The metabolism and safety of BDDE (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether) crosslinked hyaluronic acid used in Voluma XC is covered in a comprehensive review published in Dermatologic Surgery (2013, DOI: 10.1111/dsu.12301). BDDE itself is rapidly metabolized in the body, and the toxicity of its breakdown products has been confirmed to be low. It is widely used as a filler material internationally approved by the FDA, CE, and other regulatory bodies. The preparation also contains lidocaine (local anesthetic) (indicated by "XC"), which significantly reduces pain during injection.

Treatment Flow and Downtime

After confirming your desired contour and areas of improvement in a consultation, cleansing and disinfection are performed. Surface anesthetic cream or local anesthesia (upon request) is applied before injection, and Voluma XC is injected in small amounts using an ultra-fine needle or cannula into the target layer (periosteum or subcutaneous fat layer). One session typically takes 15–30 minutes. You can see results immediately after treatment, and swelling, redness, and bruising typically subside within a few days to one week in most cases. Makeup is possible from the next day onward. Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas, and massage from the day of treatment through the next day.

Duration and Safety

The duration of Voluma XC in the cheeks and temples varies individually, but clinically is reported to be approximately 18–24 months. This is because the high crosslinking density achieved by Vycross technology delays breakdown in the body compared to conventional hyaluronic acid fillers. Overfilling beyond an appropriate amount or injection into an inappropriate layer increases the risk of complications. As shown in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2013, DOI: 10.2147/CCID.S50546) and expert consensus (Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2018, DOI: 10.1007/s00266-017-1063-0), treatment by an experienced physician based on anatomical knowledge is key to safety. Our clinic performs procedures after the physician conducts careful counseling and anatomical evaluation.

Precautions and Contraindications

The following individuals may not be eligible for treatment: pregnant or nursing women / those with active infection or inflammation at the injection site / those with a history of allergy to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine / those with blood coagulation disorders or those taking anticoagulants. Additionally, if you have had previous permanent filler injections in the same area, please notify us in advance.