handfat

Handfat is a term used to describe the adipose tissue located in the hand, including the subcutaneous fat of the palm and the dorsal surface, as well as the palmar fat pads that cushion joints and tendons. This tissue is part of the soft tissue envelope that contributes to hand contour and provides padding during grasping, pinching, and other functions involving the palm and fingers.

Anatomically, the hand contains distinct fat deposits in the palm (palmar fat pads) and a thinner layer of fat on the back of the hand (dorsal hand fat). The thenar and hypothenar regions—at the base of the thumb and little finger—also contain fat in addition to muscle and other tissues. The amount and distribution of hand fat vary among individuals and can be influenced by age, sex, body composition, and genetics.

Development and aging can affect hand fat. In adults, subcutaneous fat on the dorsum may diminish with age, contributing to a more prominent skeletal appearance, while overall body fat levels can alter hand circumference. The functional impact of fat quantity is generally modest, as fat pads primarily serve cushioning rather than strength.

Clinical relevance includes cosmetic and reconstructive considerations. Autologous fat grafting (lipofilling) is sometimes used to restore hand volume after aging, injury, or disease, aiming to improve contour and skin quality. In medical literature, hand fat is typically described using terms such as palmar fat pads or subcutaneous hand fat rather than the broad term “handfat.”