As one ages, muscles and fat atrophy, causing some depressions and sagging skin in various places. One common location is the backs of the hands. Hollowing may develop between the bones of the hand and in the space between the thumb and the hand. There is no “face-lift” available for the hands, but a filler is the optimal treatment to reverse the appearance of this condition. Radiesse, a gel of calcium hydroxyapatite, is commonly used for facial rejuvenation by filling in deep facial folds and lines, such as the nasolabial folds. Now, Radiesse may also be injected into the backs of the hands, elevating the skin, smoothing out the depressions, and giving the hands a youthful look again. The effect is not permanent, but lasts up to 2 years.

In the procedure, Radiesse mixed with anesthetic is injected under the skin. Pain is minimal. The material is then massaged into the necessary areas. Initially, moderate swelling may develop that is treated with ice and elevation, but generally subsides within a week. Some bruising may also occur. Typically one 1.3 cc syringe is used per hand for significant muscle atrophy, but would depend on the amount of filling desired.

In addition to Radiesse, treatment of sun damage and skin discoloration may be desired as part of the rejuvenation procedure. A chemical peel such as a glycolic or a Vi Peel may be very beneficial to achieve a completely revitalized look to the hands.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 26th, 2008 at 2:37 am and is filed under Injectable Fillers. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.