Final answer:
Hypodermic tissue building is a post-embalming treatment used to correct emaciation in the deceased by restoring a natural appearance. It involves the injection of fillers into the hypodermis to add volume to the facial area. Formaldehyde-based chemicals are used in embalming to preserve the body and prevent decomposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypodermic tissue building may be performed as a post-embalming treatment primarily for emaciation. Emaciation refers to the extreme loss of weight and muscle, which can make the deceased appear sunken or gaunt, especially in the facial area. Tissue building is used to restore a more natural and lifelike appearance.
During the embalming process, chemicals like formaldehyde are used to preserve the body and prevent decomposition. Formaldehyde causes coagulation of proteins, effectively killing bacteria and stopping biological processes that lead to tissue decay. This preservation step is crucial for maintaining the appearance and integrity of the body.
The hypodermis is the deepest layer of the skin, comprised mainly of fat and connective tissue, which adds contour and fullness to the skin's appearance. As individuals age, changes occur, such as decreased cell division and fat redistribution, leading to thinned and sagging skin. Embalming techniques, including hypodermic tissue building, can help counter these effects after death.