Hand Rejuvenation in Louisville, Lexington, Kentucky
As we age, not only do our faces show some of the tell-tale signs of sun exposure, environmental toxins, and genetic programming, but our hands also show the same. The skin over the back of the hand thins and the fat melts away, exposing the veins and tendons at the back of the hand, making them appear older. The skin of the hand deteriorates with increasing brown spots and a rough texture. Fortunately, we have many solutions to improve the appearance of the back of the hands.
How Hand Rejuvenation Can Help
We can also improve the texture of the hand skin with both ablative and non-ablative lasers. Sometimes, the removal of color and texture can be done at the same time. Downtime for the treatments will vary depending on the severity of the changes desired. Halo laser, which has minimal downtime, can improve the appearance of the skin at the back of the hand.
With the combination of adding volume and improving the appearance of the skin over the back of the hand, we can rejuvenate the hands to match the improvement that we commonly achieve for aging of the face.
What Does Hand Rejuvenation Help Treat?
Our team approaches hand rejuvenation with the patient in mind. Just like facial aging, we all experience changes to the backs of our hands differently than anyone else. Generally, we see common concerns that affect the hands and make them appear older. These include sun damage and spots, rough texture, and a bony appearance that results from the loss of the minimal layer of fat we have to pad the space between the bones, veins, and the skin. Hand rejuvenation developed by your provider will address the concerns that are unique to you.
Is Hand Rejuvenation Painful?
No. The various treatments that are performed to refresh the skin and appearance of the hands involve conservative modalities. Dermal fillers, for example, are administered using a very small needle. Most dermal fillers contain a mild anesthetic that also works to desensitize the skin throughout treatment. Other therapies for hand rejuvenation, including lasers and broadband light treatments, are gentle and effective. Laser treatments may feel warm. Broadband light treatments may cause a mild snapping sensation on the skin. None of the sensations are particularly painful, just momentarily uncomfortable.
What Treatment Options Are Available With Hand Rejuvenation?
There are numerous ways to address the signs of aging that affect the backs of the hands. These include:
- Dermal filler injections plump and shape the skin to make veins and bones less prominent.
- Fat grafting, which uses your own fat cells as an autologous dermal filler product.
- HALO laser treatment to soften the texture of the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation and spots.
- Ablative fractional laser skin resurfacing stimulates collagen production to thicken, smooth, and brighten the skin.
Our team has extensive training and experience with lasers and other hand rejuvenation techniques. During a consultation, we can discuss your concerns and needs. Combined with a thorough examination of your hands, your provider can develop a hand rejuvenation treatment protocol around your unique situation.
How Can I Prepare for Hand Rejuvenation Treatment?
Depending on the treatment you may have to rejuvenate your hands, your provider may advise you to avoid sun exposure during the week prior to your appointment. Certain medications and supplements may need to be avoided, as well, to reduce the risks of bruising. Examples include aspirin and vitamin E.
What is Recovery Like?
There is minimal recovery associated with hand rejuvenation treatments. Dermal filler injections and fat transfer may cause temporary swelling and bruising. These side effects do not require special care. They will fade within 24 to 48 hours, or slightly longer for fat grafting. Side effects from laser treatments may last slightly longer. However, they do not typically get in the way of normal activities. Patients who schedule laser hand rejuvenation may experience redness that resembles a sunburn. After a few days, the skin may become slightly rough. Tiny scabs may form. These must be left alone to fall off on their own. If applicable, our team will provide specific aftercare instructions to maintain moisture and protect the skin as it heals and regenerates with healthy new collagen.
What Can I Expect From My Results?
Hand rejuvenation that involves dermal filler injections is very rewarding because it achieves immediate results. Depending on the product that is used, the plumping and shaping effects of this treatment may last between 18 and 24 months. Retreatment can be scheduled accordingly. Fat grafting results are also immediate, like dermal fillers. However, when we use a patient's fat cells to restore fullness to the backs of the hands, results are expected to last many years, if not indefinitely. While it takes a few days to realize the impressive results of laser treatments, and may sometimes take a few treatments, the rejuvenation achieved can last years. Patients should be diligent in their use of sunscreen on their hands to sustain the effects of their treatment.
How Long Will I Not Be Able to Use My Hands After Treatment?
You will be able to use your hands after your rejuvenating treatment, regardless of the modality that you select. Your provider will discuss restrictions based on your treatment choice, but these are typically limited to keeping pressure off the site and avoiding excessive heat and sun exposure. You may need to avoid strenuous exercise and activities that require you to grip objects or lift heavy objects. Restrictions should last a few days to a week or two.
"Dr. Salzman is a highly skilled surgeon who takes great pride in his work. He is very intuitive so it's not necessary to go into great detail about your desired outcomes because he likely knows best what fits any given situation. He is a perfectionist and will not stop until everything looks perfect. I have already recommended him to all of my friends and family."
