This article focuses on Radiesse for the hands: why the backs of the hands start to look thin, with visible veins and tendons, how a hand treatment is done, what recovery is like and how long results usually last, plus the face areas where it is also used. A physician assesses suitability first; see our Radiesse page. If you want the basics before that (what calcium hydroxylapatite is and how Radiesse differs from hyaluronic acid filler), see What is Radiesse?
What Is Radiesse?
Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite injectable: its gel gives immediate volume, and the microspheres prompt your own collagen over the following months. How that works, and how it differs from hyaluronic acid filler, is explained in What is Radiesse?
Radiesse for Hand Rejuvenation
Why Hands Age — and Why They're Often Neglected
Your hands are one of the first areas to show aging. They're exposed to UV radiation daily, have thin skin with minimal subcutaneous fat, and are constantly in motion. Common signs of aging hands include:
- Visible tendons and veins — loss of subcutaneous volume
- Crepey, thin skin — collagen and elastin breakdown
- Age spots and uneven pigmentation — sun damage accumulation
- Bony, skeletal appearance — fat pad atrophy
Many patients invest in facial rejuvenation but forget their hands — creating an age mismatch that can be more telling than facial wrinkles.
How Radiesse Is Used for Aging Hands
Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite filler used for hand augmentation. It suits hands because:
- Immediate camouflage: Tendons and veins are instantly less visible
- Natural feel: The product is designed to blend with hand tissue
- Collagen stimulation: Skin quality improves progressively over 3-6 months
- Durability: Results in hands typically last 12-18 months
- Dilute Radiesse (hyperdilute): Can be used at lower concentration for skin quality improvement across larger areas
The Hand Rejuvenation Procedure at RAAC
- Assessment: Dr. Jiang evaluates volume loss, skin quality, vein prominence, and your aesthetic goals
- Preparation: A topical anesthetic or local nerve block is applied for comfort
- Injection: Radiesse is carefully injected into the dorsum (back) of each hand using a cannula technique to reduce bruising and help distribute it evenly
- Molding: The product is gently massaged into place for a smooth, natural contour
- Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes for both hands
- Recovery: Mild swelling for 1-3 days; you can resume most activities immediately
What to Expect Over Time
| Timeline | Hands |
|---|---|
| Immediately | Veins and tendons less visible; fuller appearance |
| Week 2 | Swelling resolves; natural result emerges |
| Month 3-6 | Skin quality may improve; collagen remodeling |
| Month 12-18 | Gradual, natural fading; maintenance recommended |
Radiesse for Facial Rejuvenation
Beyond hands, Radiesse is used in several facial areas:
Cheek Augmentation & Midface Volume
Radiesse can provide structural support for the midface. Its higher viscosity (G prime) makes it suited to lifting and contouring the cheekbone area, creating a more defined facial structure.
Jawline Definition
For patients seeking a sharper jawline without surgery, Radiesse can be placed along the mandible to create definition and reduce the appearance of jowls. For some patients, its structural properties may make it suitable for this application compared with softer fillers.
Nasolabial Folds
Radiesse can fill deep nasolabial folds while also stimulating collagen, which may improve skin quality in the area.
Chin Augmentation
Adding projection and definition to the chin can improve facial balance. Radiesse's firmness makes it one option for non-surgical chin enhancement.
Hyperdilute Radiesse for Skin Quality
A newer application involves diluting Radiesse with saline and lidocaine to create hyperdilute Radiesse, which is injected superficially over larger areas to improve overall skin quality, firmness, and elasticity — similar to a liquid facelift approach.
How Much Does Radiesse Cost in Richmond BC?
At RAAC Richmond, Radiesse pricing is personalized at your consultation based on the treatment area and number of syringes needed. Typical treatment requirements:
- Hand rejuvenation: 1-2 syringes per hand (both hands)
- Cheek augmentation: 1-2 syringes total
- Jawline contouring: 2-4 syringes total
- Nasolabial folds: 1-2 syringes total
- Hyperdilute (face/neck): 2-4 syringes
How Long Does Radiesse Last?
- Face: Typically 12-18 months, depending on the person
- Hands: 12-18 months on average
- Hyperdilute (skin quality): Effects build over 3-6 months; maintenance sessions every 6-12 months
Radiesse may last longer for some patients. Some patients who switch from HA fillers may have less frequent maintenance visits.
Radiesse vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Radiesse is firmer than most hyaluronic acid fillers, is not dissolvable with an enzyme, and is generally not used in the lips or under the eyes. A full comparison is in What is Radiesse?
Safety Considerations
Like any injectable, Radiesse carries risks, which your physician discusses before treatment. Important considerations:
- Not for lips or under-eyes: The product is too firm for these delicate areas
- Not reversible: Unlike HA fillers, Radiesse cannot be dissolved with an enzyme — choosing an experienced injector is critical
- Biocompatible: CaHA is naturally occurring in the body; allergic reactions are uncommon
- Radiopaque: CaHA can appear on X-rays — inform your healthcare providers about your treatment
At RAAC, Dr. Jiang discusses both what Radiesse can do and its limitations, and recommends it only where it suits your goals.
Combining Radiesse with Other Treatments
Radiesse is sometimes combined with:
- Neuromodulators (neuromodulator injections): Relax dynamic lines while Radiesse addresses volume loss
- Sculptra: Use Sculptra for global collagen stimulation and Radiesse for areas needing immediate structural support
- Dermal fillers (HA): HA fillers for lips and under-eyes where Radiesse isn't appropriate
- Skin treatments: Pair with medical-grade skincare for comprehensive rejuvenation
Why Choose RAAC Richmond for Radiesse?
- Physician expertise: Dr. Jiang's 29+ years of medical experience and deep understanding of facial and hand anatomy
- Cannula technique: Helps reduce bruising and supports even distribution — especially important for hands
- Customized approach: Every treatment plan is tailored to your anatomy, goals, and budget
- Combination planning: We consider your entire rejuvenation journey, not just one product or area
- Honest consultation: We recommend Radiesse only where it suits your goals
Book Your Radiesse Consultation
Interested in hand rejuvenation or facial contouring with Radiesse? Book a consultation at RAAC Richmond. Dr. Jiang will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Charles Jiang, MD — 29+ years of medical expertise. RAAC Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic: 5580 No. 3 Rd Unit 110, Richmond BC V6X 0R8. Serving Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, and Metro Vancouver.
