You can use your hand almost immediately after the surgery, but you are advised not to do any heavy lifting for 2 weeks. You should aim to keep the wound dry for 10-14 days. You will be reviewed in outpatients after 6-8 weeks to ensure all is well.
Most people are able to return to driving at 5-7 days when the bulky dressing comes down and return to sports such as golf & tennis after 2-3 weeks. At 2 weeks the wound should be healed & there are no restricions on use however your hand may feel weak and/or uncomfortable for 6-8 weeks after the operation.