Scar Management After Hand Surgery: Tips for Faster Healing

Your Hand Is Healing—But the Scar Might Feel Like a Setback.

You’ve come through surgery. You’re doing your therapy. But now, there’s a new challenge: the scar. It may feel tight, sensitive, or in the way. You might wonder if it will always look like this—or keep you from moving freely.

This Is a Normal Part of Healing—And You’re Not Alone.

Scars are the body’s natural way of closing a wound. But when scar tissue builds up, it can lead to discomfort, stiffness, or even limited movement in the hand. That’s why caring for your scar is just as important as any other part of your recovery.

At Hands for Living, We Help People Heal Every Day.

Scar care is a key part of our post-surgical therapy. With the right steps—and some patience—you can reduce tightness, improve the look and feel of your skin, and get back to using your hand more freely.

Here’s What You Can Do to Support Healing:

1. Keep the Scar Clean and Moisturized.
Once your incision is fully closed (and your doctor gives the go-ahead), wash gently with mild soap and water. Follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer or a silicone-based gel or sheet to support smoother healing. Silicone treatments are especially effective when used consistently for 8 to 12 weeks.

2. Try Gentle Scar Massage.
Massage helps soften thick tissue and improve circulation. Use clean hands and a small amount of lotion to gently massage the scar in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes, twice daily. This can improve flexibility and comfort over time.

3. Protect the Scar from Sun Exposure.
Fresh scars are vulnerable to sun damage, which can darken and thicken the skin. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) or cover the area when outdoors—even on cloudy days.

4. Keep Moving—But Move Smart.
Scar tissue can cause stiffness if the area isn’t stretched. As part of your therapy, you’ll be guided through safe, effective movements to maintain range of motion. Avoid pushing through pain or doing too much too soon. Trust your therapist to pace your recovery.

Some Scars Need Extra Help.
If your scar stays raised, painful, or restricts your hand function, additional treatments may be needed. These could include ultrasound, laser therapy, or corticosteroid injections. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to speak up—we’ll help you explore your options.

Healing Takes Time, but You’re on the Right Track.
Scar recovery isn’t just about appearance—it’s about comfort, flexibility, and function. And it doesn’t happen overnight. But with expert care and consistent effort, your hand will keep improving.

We’re Here to Support Your Recovery.
At Hands for Living, we understand that healing doesn’t end when the stitches come out. Our therapists are here to guide your scar care, support your mobility, and help you feel more confident in your recovery.

If your scar is slowing you down, we’re ready to help you move forward.