Hand Reconstructive Surgery Specialist
Southwest Hand and Microsurgery
Robert Kwon, MD
Hand Surgeon located in Plano, TX
Severe or complex injuries to nerves and blood vessels or the soft tissue in your hand require specialized care to repair the damage. Robert K. Kwon, MD, is a double board-certified hand surgeon offering microsurgery and hand reconstructive surgery at Southwest Hand and Microsurgery in Plano, Texas. To find the best treatment for your hand condition, call Southwest Hand and Microsurgery or schedule an appointment online today.
Hand Reconstructive Surgery Q & A
What is hand reconstructive surgery?
Dr. Kwon uses reconstructive surgery techniques to restore both the form and function of hands. These procedures can be life-changing and prevent long-term disability by restoring function. Dr. Kwon may recommend hand reconstructive surgery for your hands or fingers to correct a variety of conditions, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Congenital defects
- Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
- Traumatic crush injuries or finger detachments
In addition to general hand reconstructive surgical techniques, Dr. Kwon offers complex procedures like thumb transplants and toe-to-thumb transplants. He also provides advanced hand and wrist surgical techniques including microsurgery.
What is microsurgery?
Microsurgery focuses on treating tiny blood vessels and nerves using a microscope to avoid damaging surrounding tissue. When used on the hands, Dr. Kwon magnifies the treatment site to reconnect veins, arteries, and other connective tissue to restore blood flow and keep the limb alive.
For complex wound treatment or open areas of skin, Dr. Kwon uses microsurgery to close them with a tissue transfer. This complex procedure involves transferring healthy tissue from your body or a donor to your wound and then attaching it to your body’s blood supply.
Dr. Kwon might recommend microsurgery to treat a variety of hand conditions, including:
- Limb salvage
- Amputation or replantation
- Tendon laceration
- Ring avulsion injury
- Severe fractures
Microsurgery allows Dr. Kown to repair blood vessels and nerves as small as 1 millimeter wide.
What can I expect after hand reconstructive surgery?
Dr. Kwon performs hand reconstructive surgery and microsurgery in a hospital setting. After your surgery, a nurse checks your surgical site hourly for 24 to 48 hours for adequate blood flow. If no complications develop, this observation period moves to every two hours for several more days.
Depending on your hand procedure, you may need bed rest for up to a week to promote healing and minimize swelling. During your recovery, your hand is immobilized and elevated over your heart. Dr. Kwon also works closely with you to outline which activities are safe while you heal.
An additional aspect of your recovery includes working with a certified hand therapist to build strength and regain hand function.
To learn more about hand reconstructive surgery, call Southwest Hand and Microsurgery or schedule an appointment online today.