What to Expect After Surgery

  • Swelling and bruising around your wrist, palm, and fingers are normal and should improve over time.
  • Soreness in the palm is normal and can last several weeks to It does not mean that there’s something wrong. This soreness is often times called pillar pain and will go away.
  • Altered sensation (tingling, numbness, or mild discomfort) is common as the nerve This may take several weeks to months depending on the severity of your pre-operative symptoms.

Wound Care

  • You may remove your dressing the night of surgery.
  • You may shower after removing the dressing. Allow soap and water to run over the incision, then gently pat it dry.
  • You may cover the wound with a Band-Aid or light dressing if you prefer, but it is not required.

Activity

  • There are no strict restrictions after surgery.
  • You may use your hand and wrist as tolerated—let pain be your guide.
  • Light activities such as typing, eating, or grooming are fine right away.
  • Gradually increase heavier activities (lifting, gripping, pushing) as your comfort improves.

Pain Management

  • Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
  • Elevating your hand and using an ice pack (15–20 minutes at a time) can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Follow-Up

  • Please keep your scheduled post-operative appointment so we can check your healing progress.

Call Our Office If You Notice:

  • Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling at the incision site.
  • Drainage of pus or foul odor from the wound.
  • Fever or chills.
  • Severe pain not controlled with medication.
  • New or worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness in your fingers.
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