After Your Hand Surgery

What to Expect

• Mild swelling, stiffness, and bruising are common.
• Hand and finger swelling is common for several days and improves with elevation.
• Temporary numbness or tingling around the incision can occur and usually improves as healing continues.
• Symptoms generally improve steadily over the first week

Pain Control

• Use prescribed medication if needed.
• Ice the area for 15–20 minutes at a time.
• Elevate the hand above heart level when resting.
• Gentle finger motion helps reduce stiffness.

Activity

• Light use of the hand is encouraged.
• Avoid heavy gripping or lifting.
• Do not remove splints unless instructed.
• Return to normal activities gradually, or as directed by Hand Therapy.

Dressing Care

• Keep the dressing clean and dry.
• Do not remove the dressing unless instructed.
• If the dressing becomes loose, reinforce it with clean gauze and tape.

When to Call the Office

• Increasing redness or warmth around the incision.
• Fever greater than 101°F.
• Drainage from the incision.
• Severe swelling or worsening pain.