Volbella XC (Hyaluronic Acid - Allergan)

What is Volbella XC

Volbella XC (Product Code: VYC-15L) is an injectable hyaluronic acid formulation developed by Allergan (now AbbVie). Through its proprietary VYCROSS cross-linking technology, it combines low molecular weight and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid in a specialized ratio and cross-links them to achieve an exceptionally flexible and smooth gel texture. Additionally, to reduce pain during the procedure, a local anesthetic (lidocaine 0.3%) is pre-formulated, making it a formulation that prioritizes patient comfort.

Scientific Evidence: Clinical Trials Demonstrating Efficacy and Safety

A multi-center prospective trial published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology in 2012 (DOI: 10.2147/CCID.S35800) injected Volbella around the perioral region in 60 subjects and conducted a 12-month follow-up. The improvement rate on the Lip Fullness Scale at the 3-month timepoint significantly exceeded the predetermined criterion (≥40%), with high patient satisfaction. Furthermore, a randomized controlled trial published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open in 2015 (DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000266) compared Volbella XC with competitor hyaluronic acid formulations in 280 subjects, demonstrating non-inferiority in lip fullness, perioral line, and commissure improvement. A multi-center study published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2019 (DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjy019) confirmed the safety and efficacy of repeated treatments with VYC-15L (Volbella XC), with favorable results and a favorable safety profile reported at re-injection one year after the initial injection.

Characteristics of VYCROSS Technology

The VYCROSS cross-linking technology in Volbella XC exhibits higher cross-linking efficiency compared to conventional hyaluronic acid formulations and has a structure that resists degradation by enzymes (hyaluronidase). While this provides excellent durability, gel hardness is minimized, maintaining a natural texture that preserves facial expression even when used in dynamic delicate areas such as the lips, tear trough, and perioral wrinkles. The concentration is set at a relatively low 15 mg/mL (VYC-15L), which is the key to achieving both flexibility and spreadability.

Primary Indications and Treatment Flow

Volbella XC is suitable for the following areas.

Lips (volume enhancement and shape refinement of upper and lower lips)

Perioral vertical wrinkles and perioral muscles around the lip border definition

Tear trough and under-eye hollows (infraorbital hollows)

Fine height adjustment of the nasal bridge and nasal tip (when using small amounts)

The procedure begins with facial cleansing, followed by application of topical anesthetic cream to the injection site and waiting 15-20 minutes for penetration. Subsequently, using a fine needle or cannula, the product is injected carefully in small amounts while adjusting the depth of the skin. The procedure time varies depending on the area and volume, but typically takes 15-30 minutes for each eye or lip area. Since the formulation contains lidocaine, pain is significantly reduced immediately after injection begins.

Downtime and Precautions

Mild swelling, redness, and bruising may occur for 2-3 days after injection. Lip injections tend to swell more noticeably, typically settling within approximately one week. Makeup is permissible from the next day onward, but direct irritation to injection sites should be avoided. After the procedure, refrain from alcohol, strenuous exercise, and sauna on the day of treatment as these promote blood circulation. Bruising is typically absorbed within 1-2 weeks. The duration of effect varies between individuals, but the VYCROSS cross-linking characteristics are expected to provide approximately 6-12 months of durability for lip injections. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Surgery in 2021 (DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2021.681028) also demonstrated that lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid formulations has a high safety profile, with serious adverse events being rare.

Application for Tear Trough and Under-Eye Areas

A multi-center randomized trial published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2023 (DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjad100) evaluated the safety and patient-reported outcomes of Volbella XC (VYC-15L) when used for under-eye hollows (infraorbital hollows). The treatment group showed significantly greater improvement compared to the control group, with patient self-assessment also reporting improved satisfaction with appearance. The flexible gel characteristics of Volbella XC make it less likely to produce unnatural firmness or Tyndall effect (skin appearing blue or translucent) under thin skin, making it well-suited for tear trough enhancement.