Hand Surgery

Hand Surgery

There are many reasons a patient may be looking for hand surgery in Fort Lauderdale. Trauma can impair a hand’s proper function and impact its aesthetic appeal. So can cancer and other diseases, congenital defects, burns, and even prior surgery. The problem may be limited to one portion of one hand, or it could involve massive injury to the fingers and forearm.

Dr. Zoran Potparic is an expert in microsurgery, a field that focuses on procedures of an incredibly small magnitude, sometimes requiring the doctor to make repairs to blood vessels or nerves less than 1 millimeter in diameter. Hand surgery is precision work, but the tiny changes can have enormous results, giving function and visual appeal to sufferers previously unable to fully enjoy the use of such an important part of their body.

 

A HAND SURGERY EXPERT

Practitioners of microsurgery began making great strides in the 1970s, particularly when it came to hand surgery. Their efforts in re-attaching severed fingers and transplanting another digit for use as a thumb was a medical breakthrough. The technology and reconstructive possibilities have only increased since then. Advances in nerve repair have allowed for the restoration of mobility and sensation, and hand transplants are now a reality.

Dr. Potparic has a fellowship in reconstructive microsurgery and nerve surgery. He performs surgery on patients suffering from carpal tunnel, trigger finger, scars and hand contractures, nerve and tendon injuries, cancers and benign tumors of the hand, and more.

He is also a member of the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery, the most vital group of plastic surgeons, which, through research and clinical work, constantly investigates new venues in plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Their research, through clinical applications, ultimately contributes to development of all fields of plastic surgery-reconstructive and cosmetic. Some of the most prominent cosmetic surgeons in the United States and the entire world today are the members of this society.

Not every patient requiring reconstructive hand surgery in Fort Lauderdale should expect to regain full use of the hand, since every case is different, but Dr. Potparic will discuss what may be possible based on the nature of the injury or defect, the individual’s unique health and medical history, and the desired results. A significant part of Dr. Potparic’s practice is devoted to aesthetic hand surgery.

 

How Long Does Hand Surgery Take To Recover?

When it comes to aesthetic hand surgery in Fort Lauderdale, the recovery timeline hinges on many different intricacies of the specific procedure. For minimally invasive treatments such as hand rejuvenation with dermal fillers or non-surgical interventions, patients can often return to their routine activities almost immediately, with minimal downtime. Conversely, surgical interventions, including hand lifts or rejuvenation procedures involving skin tightening, may necessitate a more deliberate recovery period. Typically, patients can expect swelling and bruising to subside within 1-2 weeks, allowing for a gradual return to daily activities. Full recovery, however, may extend up to 4-6 weeks, during which patients are advised to follow postoperative care instructions meticulously and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments. The collaboration between the plastic surgeon and the patient is pivotal in customizing the recovery journey to ensure optimal results and a seamless transition to a rejuvenated and aesthetically pleasing appearance in the hands.

 

How Painful Is Hand Surgery? 

Dr. Zoran, your trusted plastic surgeon in Fort Lauderdale, understands that concerns about pain are paramount when considering hand surgery in surgery. It’s crucial to note that the perception of pain varies among individuals, and the level of discomfort experienced is contingent upon the specific procedure undertaken. In general, patients can anticipate some degree of postoperative soreness and discomfort, which is effectively managed through prescribed pain medications and comprehensive postoperative care. Minimally invasive procedures, such as hand rejuvenation with injectables, tend to involve minimal pain, with patients often returning to their routine activities shortly thereafter. More extensive surgical interventions, like hand lifts or reconstructive procedures, may entail a higher level of discomfort initially, but this is typically well-controlled with medication. Dr. Zoran prioritizes patient comfort and employs advanced pain management techniques to ensure a smooth recovery process.

 

What Hand Injuries Require Surgery? 

Generally, traumatic injuries resulting in fractures, severe soft tissue damage, or complex wounds often warrant surgical intervention. Fractures that involve joint surfaces, displaced bones, or fractures that pierce the skin may require surgical stabilization to optimize alignment and promote proper healing. Conditions such as severe tendon injuries, nerve damage, or extensive lacerations may also necessitate surgical repair to restore functionality and prevent long-term impairment.

A hand outstrechedDo You Need Physical Therapy After Hand Surgery? 

In the aftermath of hand surgery in Fort Lauderdale, the decision to pursue physical therapy is contingent upon the specific procedure performed and the individual patient’s needs. As a seasoned plastic surgeon in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Zoran often recommends physical therapy as a crucial component of the recovery process. Following surgeries such as hand lifts, joint replacements, or tendon repairs, engaging in a targeted physical therapy regimen can expedite healing and enhance the restoration of hand function. Physical therapy aids in reducing swelling, improving range of motion, and strengthening the hand and wrist muscles. For less invasive procedures, such as hand rejuvenation, therapy may be less imperative, and patients may focus on simpler exercises at home.

 

Learn More About Hand Surgery With Our Fort Lauderdale Hand Specialist

Dr. Zoran Potparic is familiar with full-range reconstructive surgery. To discuss reconstructive plastic surgery or hand surgery possibilities, please call (954) 779-2777 or contact us online to set up your free consultation. We are also proud to offer tummy tuck revision, labiaplasty surgery, and butt reduction surgery for those that are interested.