Most of the signs of aging in our hands revolve around the loss of soft tissue, mainly fat, along the top of the hand. This leads to prominence of bones, joints, veins, and tendons. There are also signs of sun damage such as age spots and wrinkling. Finally, arthritic bone spurs along joints can also add to the aged appearance.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-invasive treatments primarily involve injection of filler materials into the top (dorsum) of the hands. Adding volume to the areas under the skin can soften the appearance of veins and bones to achieve a softer, younger appearance. Laser treatments of age spots can also be helpful. There is no role for Botox in aging hands as it is likely to result in weakness due to muscle relaxation.
Surgical Options
The surgery for aging hands is typically minor. The loose, wrinkly skin can be removed to tighten the skin. The scars are well hidden in existing creases. Fat transfer (grafting) is an option that is rapidly gaining in popularity. Small amounts of fat can be removed from the abdomen via liposuction. This fat can then be re-injected into the hands to restore the soft tissue that has been lost. This is a quick and effective office procedure with little downtime. The results can be quite dramatic because the correct amount of fat can be removed to inject into the hands. The results can also be permanent.
Arthritic Changes
Bony or joint changes can be improved with the surgery. These procedures have the added benefit of taking care of issues of pain and joint dysfunction while improving the appearance of the hands as well.
People no longer have to hide their hands because of their appearance. Modern treatments for aging hands are now available which are both safe and effective. At Advanced Specialty Care, our specialists offer the newest and most sophisticated cosmetic surgery procedures for men and women of all ages. In addition to hand rejuvenation, we offer body contouring such as liposuction and tummy tucks, facial procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose surgery), eyelid lifts and facelifts, as well as injectables such as Botox and Juvederm. All procedures are done by ASC surgeons in our offices located in the Fairfield County, CT towns of Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, Ridgefield and Southbury.
– Sohel Islam, MD