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If you need to undergo hand surgery, you’re probably wondering what the recovery process is like. Hand surgery is intricate and complex, and recovery time varies depending on the extent of your surgery and whether you need to undergo physical or occupational therapy following your surgery. Each person is different, and you should listen to your hand surgeon and follow all post-surgery instructions to the letter in order to facilitate a smooth recovery.

If you are suffering from carpal tunnel, rheumatoid arthritis, Dupuytren’s contracture, or another type of debilitating hand condition that requires surgery, please don’t hesitate to contact the hand surgery specialists at UCI Plastic Surgery at 714-456-3077 to schedule your consultation.

What to Expect During Hand Surgery Recovery

It can take months to fully recover from hand surgery, but it is important to be patient and follow your surgeon’s and physical therapist’s post-surgery instructions. You’ll be given prescription medications to manage any pain or discomfort, and you may be given special wrappings or splints to keep your hand still and control swelling.

Although recovery may seem to take a long time, you shouldn’t try to push yourself too hard. Trying to do too much too fast can be detrimental to the healing process and set your recovery back. On the other hand, you should also try your best to do everything asked of you by your physical or occupational therapist, even if it’s painful or uncomfortable.

We use our hands every day, so it may be difficult at first to adjust to having limited use of one or both hands. You may find yourself automatically reaching for things or trying to pick up things that would normally be no problem, but that after surgery are too heavy for you. Do your best and try not to get too frustrated – remember that once your healing is complete, your hand will be in much better shape than it was previously.

Tips for a Smooth Hand Surgery Recovery

Here are some things you can do to ensure your hand surgery is as smooth and quick as possible:

• Ask a friend, family member, or significant other to help you out around the house after your surgery
• Make things easy for yourself before surgery by doing things like preparing meals and moving everyday household objects into easy to reach locations
• Follow all post-surgery instructions and guidelines given by your surgeon
• Call your surgeon if you experience any complications
• Don’t skip any post-surgery appointments
• Be patient

Patience and following your surgeon’s instructions are key to a smooth recovery.

Schedule Your Hand Surgery Consultation

There are a number of conditions that hand surgery may help with. If you are interested in learning whether hand surgery may be right for you, call UCI Plastic Surgery at 714-456-3077 to schedule your consultation. We serve patients in Orange, Tustin, Costa Mesa, and other nearby areas of southern California.