After You Leave For pain or swelling, you may put ice in a plastic bag, cover it with a towel, and place it over the incision for 15 to 20 minutes out of every hour as long as necessary. Do not sleep on the ice pack. Treatment with ice is most effective when started right after the operation and used for 24 to 48 hours. After the first 24 to 48 hours you may use heat for pain or swelling. Do not sleep on the heating pad or hot water bottle.
Heat brings blood to the area of the operation and helps it heal faster.
When you are allowed to bathe or shower, carefully wash your stitches with soap and water, then put on a clean, new bandage. Change the bandage any time it gets wet or dirty. Rest your hand for 2 weeks after surgery. Then ask your doctor about exercises to strengthen the hand. This will increase your energy level and promote faster healing.