Hand and Wrist Plastic Surgery

Hand surgery may be performed to correct the effects of a traumatic injury, inflammatory disorders, or aging.  In recent years, many advances have been made to correct a wide variety of conditions that affect the hand and wrist.  Our team of plastic surgeons are equipped to address most common hand issues, with the goal to restore function of the upper extremity through complex surgical techniques. 

Meet our Hand and Wrist Plastic Surgery Specialists

Common Hand and Wrist Conditions We Treat

Our plastic surgery hand surgeons are trained to address a range of conditions including:

  • Broken hands
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Congenital defects
  • Trigger fingers
  • Fractures and dislocations of the hand and wrist
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Replantation of fingers or hand
  • Ligament reconstruction
  • Wrist and tendon injuries
  • Nerve injuries
  • Hand trauma
  • Tennis elbow

Preparing for Hand and Wrist Plastic Surgery: What You Need to Know

Before Hand and Wrist Surgery

  • Transportation and Support: Arrange a ride home, and plan for someone to stay with you during the early stages of recovery, if needed.
  • Medications: Some medications or supplements—such as aspirin, certain anti-inflammatories, and herbal products—can increase bleeding risk and may need to be stopped before the procedure. Your care team will advise you on which medications to pause and when to resume them.
  • Preoperative Testing: Lab work or medical evaluations may be required.
  • Lifestyle Changes: You may be asked to stop smoking, change eating habits, or make other lifestyle changes to support healing.
  • Fasting and Hygiene: You might need to fast for a set period before the procedure. Bathing instructions may also be provided.
  • Infections: Existing infections, including dental or urinary, may need treatment first.
  • Follow-Up Planning: Know your follow-up schedule and any therapy needs in advance.
  • Questions: Consider what questions you will want to ask your surgeon or the medical staff before the procedure, including what type of anesthesia you will have, the expected recovery time, what should be avoided after surgery, and whether you will need therapy.

After Hand and Wrist Surgery 

  • Elevation: Keep your hand elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Splint or Cast: Follow care instructions if you are placed in one.
  • Pain and Activity: Understand expected pain levels and activity limits.
  • Therapy: You may be referred for hand therapy to regain strength and mobility.
hands measuring wood to cut

Make an Appointment

To schedule an appointment with any of our plastic surgeons, please call 401-444-2701.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hand and Wrist Plastic Surgery

What’s the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive hand surgery?

Reconstructive hand surgery is performed to restore function, relieve pain, or correct abnormalities caused by injury, illness, or congenital conditions. This may include repairing tendons or nerves, correcting deformities, treating hand fractures, or improving mobility after trauma or arthritis. The primary goal is to improve the hand’s ability to function. 

Cosmetic hand surgery, on the other hand, is performed to improve the appearance of the hand. This may involve procedures to reduce visible signs of aging, revise scars, or address other aesthetic concerns. While cosmetic procedures may also improve function in some cases, their main focus is appearance.

Brown Health plastic surgeons are trained in both cosmetic and reconstructive techniques and will work with patients to determine the best approach based on their needs and goals.

How long does it take to recover from broken hand surgery ?

Recovery from broken hand surgery usually takes six to 12 weeks, but this can vary depending on the type of hand fracture and procedure. Following your Brown University Health plastic surgeon’s instructions is key. This may include wearing a splint or cast, managing swelling, and avoiding certain activities. Many patients also work with Brown Health hand therapists to restore strength and movement. Your care team will guide you through each step of recovery to help you regain function safely and effectively.

Are there risks involved with hand and wrist plastic surgery?

All surgeries carry some risk, and hand and wrist plastic surgery is no exception. While serious complications are uncommon, possible risks include: 

  • Infection
  • Bleeding or blood clots
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Scarring
  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion
  • Delayed healing or problems with bone or tissue repair 

Your Brown University Health plastic surgeon will discuss the specific risks related to your procedure and take steps to reduce them. Following your care team’s instructions before and after surgery is important to support a safe recovery and the best possible outcome.

Pediatric Hand Surgery

Our hand surgeons use the latest techniques to correct your child’s congenital defect or repair the damage caused by an injury.

Among the conditions we treat:

  • Underdeveloped hands or fingers at birth
  • Overgrowth or undergrowth of hands or fingers at birth
  • Syndactyly of the hand (fused fingers)
  • Polydactyly of the hand (finger duplication)
  • Radial club hand
  • Ulnar club hand
  • Cleft hand

Contact Brown University Health Pediatric Hand Surgery for more information

What Is Plastic Surgery