After your surgery · Nicholas Genovese, M.D.
Swelling, scar and sensitivity care at home
A home program for the weeks after the incision has healed.
Use this program once your surgeon or therapist says it is safe. Swelling control starts immediately. Scar massage and desensitization start only after the stitches are out and the incision is fully closed, with no scabs or drainage.
Exercises
Swelling control
Keep the hand above heart level when resting and pump the fingers open and closed often. If the fingers stay puffy after the first week and your surgeon or therapist approves, wrap each finger lightly with Coban from the tip toward the hand. Remove any wrap that makes the fingertips cold, blue or numb.
Scar massage
Start only after the stitches are out and the incision is fully closed, with no scabs or drainage (usually about 2–3 weeks). Use a fragrance-free moisturizer such as Aquaphor. Press firmly enough to move the skin and massage in small circles, then side to side and up and down. 2–3 minutes, 2–4 times a day for 6–8 weeks. Protect the scar from the sun for several months.
Desensitization
If the skin around the scar is very sensitive, rub it with a soft material (cotton ball, soft cloth) for 1–2 minutes, then slowly progress to rougher textures such as a towel or denim. Light tapping around the tender spot and moving the hand through a bowl of dry rice or beans also help. 3–6 short sessions a day. Mild discomfort is fine; stop if it causes sharp pain or a flare that lasts hours.
A simple daily schedule
- Morning: elevate for 5–10 minutes; open and close the hand 20 times; scar massage.
- Midday: open and close the hand 20 times; wrist and elbow motion if allowed; desensitization for 5 minutes.
- Evening: elevate for 5–10 minutes; light swelling massage from the fingertips toward the wrist; desensitization for 5 minutes.
- Night: do not sleep with the elbow tightly bent; keep the hand raised if it is swollen.
Stop and call if
- The incision opens, drains, or becomes very red or hot, or you have a fever.
- Swelling increases quickly, pain becomes severe, or the hand turns pale, blue, cold or numb.
- Tingling becomes constant or weakness is new.
About these instructions
These instructions are general guidelines for patients of Nicholas Genovese, M.D. Your surgeon may change your plan based on your surgery and how you are healing. If anything here differs from what your surgeon or therapist told you, follow their instructions, and call the office before changing any activity, splint use or therapy.