Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Hand rejuvenation treatment is in high demand in cosmetic medicine. Radiesse®, a commercially available formulation of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), is safe, biocompatible, and provides long-lasting results. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of the presented formulation of Radiesse® and its injection procedure. METHODS: The hands of 58 women were treated employing Radiesse® diluted with lidocaine. The treatment was performed using a blunt cannula following the proximal-to-distal fanning technique at two entry points on the dorsum of the hands. The patients received 1-4 treatments over a follow-up period of up to five years. RESULTS: The hands of 58 females were evaluated using the Merz Hand Grading Scale (MHGS) and treated with the presented CaHA formulation. After the first treatment, 55 patients (94.8%) achieved a 1-point improvement, and 19 patients (32.8%) did not receive further treatment, being satisfied with the results. The remaining 39 women (67.2%) received 2-4 follow-up treatments. At the end of the treatment(s), 46 women (79%) achieved a final improvement of one point, and 12 women (21%) a final improvement of two points. Three minor adverse events were registered. CONCLUSIONS: Radiesse® diluted with lidocaine is an excellent choice for hand rejuvenation. The formulation and technique proved to be safe and efficient. In our experience, a blunt cannula should be employed for optimal vein correction. The treatment was highly satisfying, although planning a second treatment during the 1-month follow-up visit is recommended to best achieve long-lasting results.