Hand Rejuvenation with Radiesse

What Radiesse does for the hands

Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxylapatite and is an injectable implant. It is FDA-approved for hand augmentation to correct volume loss in the dorsum, or backs, of the hands. By adding volume, it restores fullness and can soften the look of visible veins and tendons.

FDA-approved use and treatment limits

The FDA approved this hand-augmentation indication through a 2015 PMA supplement. Radiesse adds volume under the skin; it is not a treatment for pigmentation, age spots, or skin texture changes such as crepey skin.

Hand rejuvenation with Radiesse is not the same as changing the skin surface. A consultation with Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS is needed to discuss whether volume restoration fits your concerns and medical history.

Who may be a candidate

People bothered by volume loss on the backs of their hands may be candidates. Dr. Yang will review your goals, examine your hands, and discuss whether Radiesse is appropriate. Treatment is individualized; an appointment is required before deciding on a plan.

What to expect at a visit

• A visit takes about 30 minutes in the office.
• Local numbing or other comfort measures may be used.
• Volume change is visible right away after treatment.
• Many patients have little to no downtime, though swelling or bruising can occur.

How long results may last

Results commonly last about a year, and individual results vary. The FDA hand study followed patients for 12 months. Safety beyond one year for use in the hand was not investigated in that trial. If volume changes over time, touch-up treatment may be discussed at a later visit.

Safety, precautions, and possible side effects

Radiesse should not be used in people with severe allergies, including a history of anaphylaxis or multiple severe allergies, known hypersensitivity to its components, or bleeding disorders. Treatment should be deferred if there is an active skin infection or inflammation near the treatment area.

Tell Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS about pregnancy or breastfeeding, blood thinners, allergies, bleeding concerns, and your hand-specific medical history before treatment. The safety of use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established.

Temporary swelling, bruising, redness, pain or tenderness, itching, lumps or nodules, and temporary difficulty with hand activities may occur. Rare but serious risks associated with soft-tissue fillers, including vascular events, will be discussed during consultation.

Aftercare

• Remove rings until swelling has resolved.
• Minimize strenuous activity and extensive sun or heat exposure for about 24 hours, or until initial swelling and redness have resolved.
• Follow the individualized instructions provided by the care team.