Body

Restore Your Hand's Function and Comfort

Expert Care for Carpal Tunnel and Hand Conditions

Relieve pain, numbness, and tingling caused by nerve compression — restoring grip strength and full hand function.

Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel at a Glance

  • Overview

    Our plastic surgeons specialize in a range of hand surgeries, including the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These procedures alleviate pain and restore function to hands affected by nerve compression, injury, or other conditions.

  • Recovery

    Hand surgery is typically an outpatient procedure. You may experience some soreness and a limited range of motion for a few weeks. Most patients return to light activities in a few days, with a full recovery and return to strength and function over a few months.

  • Results

    Results are long-lasting. In carpal tunnel cases, the procedure provides immediate relief from pressure on the median nerve — leading to progressive reduction in pain, numbness, and tingling, and significant restoration of hand function.

Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel

Am I a Good Candidate?

You are an excellent candidate for hand surgery if you are experiencing persistent pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand and fingers that is not responding to non-surgical treatments. Carpal tunnel syndrome — caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist — is a common condition we treat. We also provide surgical solutions for hand injuries, nerve conditions, and congenital deformities. This procedure is ideal for patients who want a permanent solution and are ready to regain the full use of their hands. Our board-certified plastic surgeons have extensive training in the complex anatomy of the hand, ensuring a safe and effective outcome.

What Do Scars Look Like?

Hand surgery requires small incisions. For carpal tunnel release, a small incision is made on the palm of the hand. Our surgeons are meticulous in technique to ensure the resulting scar is a fine line that is barely noticeable once healed. With proper aftercare, the scar continues to fade over time.

More Details About Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in the wrist. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. When non-surgical options like splinting and physical therapy are no longer effective, a carpal tunnel release can provide a permanent solution. The surgeon makes a small incision and cuts the ligament that is pressing on the nerve, immediately relieving the pressure.

The Expertise of Plastic Surgeons

While many doctors perform hand surgery, plastic surgeons have extensive training in the delicate anatomy of the hand — including the nerves, tendons, and blood vessels. This expertise allows us to perform the surgery with precision and care, not only to restore function but also to ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome — particularly important for visible palm-side incisions.

Surgeon's Notes

Jane Namkung, MD
Dr. Namkung MD

Why plastic surgeons do hand surgery — and when to choose us

Patients are often surprised to learn that plastic surgeons perform hand surgery. The history is actually straightforward: plastic surgery training programs include extensive hand training because the field grew out of reconstructive work, and hand surgery requires the same delicate technique with nerves, tendons, and small blood vessels. For straightforward carpal tunnel release, you have options — general orthopedic hand surgeons do this procedure too. Where our training distinctly helps is in cases where the aesthetic outcome of the scar matters (palm-side incisions in someone who plays piano or uses their hands professionally), or in cases involving combined nerve and soft-tissue work. We're happy to be your second opinion if you've been told you need carpal tunnel release and want to understand whether a plastic surgeon's approach is right for you.

Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel

Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel Recovery & Results Timeline

Please remember this is just a guide for Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel recovery. Every individual and recovery is unique. Your surgeon will provide you with personalized instructions and recovery times after your procedure.

1

After the Treatment

Your hand will be bandaged, and you may experience some soreness. You can return to light activities and work that don't require strenuous use of your hand.

2

1 – 2 Weeks

Any sutures will be removed. You will begin to regain strength and dexterity in your hand, but avoid heavy lifting or gripping.

3

1 – 3 Months

The majority of soreness will be gone, and you will have regained most of your strength and function. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in full recovery.

4

3 – 6 Months

You will be fully recovered and can return to all normal activities without pain or discomfort.

Your Surgeons

Jane Namkung, MD

Jane Namkung

MD

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a consultation to discuss Hand Surgery & Carpal Tunnel with our board-certified surgeons.

(360) 823-0860 Request Consultation