SERVICES

HAND SURGERY

Burns and Reconstructive Burn Surgery

What is reconstructive burn surgery of the hand?

Burns affecting the hands can be particularly devastating, as they impact not only appearance but also the ability to perform essential daily functions. The hand’s complex structure, with its many joints, tendons, nerves, and delicate skin which makes it vulnerable to both functional limitations and disfigurement following a burn injury.


Reconstructive burn surgery is a specialised field focused on treating both acute burns (injuries occurring within the first days to weeks) and secondary complications such as scar contractures, deformities, and webbing between the fingers. The goals are to restore hand function, improve range of motion, relieve pain, and enhance the cosmetic appearance of the affected area.

Types of burn injuries treated surgically

  • Acute burns Immediate surgical management may be required for deep partial-thickness or full-thickness burns. Surgery can involve early excision (removal) of dead tissue and skin grafting to cover the area and promote healing.
  • Burn contractures As the skin heals from deep burns, it can tighten and form rigid scar tissue that restricts motion. Contracture release surgery helps free stiff joints and improve mobility.
  • Syndactyly from burns This occurs when scar tissue causes fingers to fuse together.
  • Burn syndactyly release is a delicate procedure aimed at separating the fingers and restoring functional grip.
  • Hypertrophic and keloid scarring These raised, thick scars can be both painful and unsightly. Surgical revision combined with therapies like steroid injections or silicone gel can improve outcomes.
  • Soft tissue reconstruction In cases where deep tissue is lost, flap surgery may be used. This involves transplanting healthy skin and underlying tissue from another part of the body to cover the defect.


FAQ

1When is surgery needed for hand burns?
Surgery may be required early in the healing process to remove damaged tissue and promote recovery, or later to correct scar-related complications. The timing and type of surgery depend on the depth and location of the burn.
2What is recovery like after reconstructive burn surgery?
Recovery involves more than just wound healing. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and scar management play key roles in regaining function. It may take months to see the full benefit of surgery, and some patients require multiple procedures over time.
3Can full function be restored after a severe hand burn?
While severe burns can cause permanent changes, modern surgical techniques can dramatically improve both the function and appearance of the hand. Many patients regain the ability to perform daily activities, though the extent of recovery depends on the severity and location of the injury.
HAND SURGERY
Congenital Hand Deformities Replantation and Trauma of the Hand Soft tissue masses and Cancers of the hand Burns and Reconstructive Burns surgery Peripheral nerve surgery Spasticity Spasticity Surgery Tendinopathies
BREAST SURGERY
Breast Reduction Breast Reconstruction Breast lift Breast Augmentation Male Breast Reduction Revision of Breast Surgery
PAEDIATRIC PLASTIC SURGERY
Cleft Lip/Palate Repair Otoplasty
COSMETIC SURGERY
Liposuction Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck Abdominoplasty – Mini Thigh Lift Arm Lift Labiaplasty Fat Grafting/Transfer Blepharoplasty Lip Lift Non-Surgical Procedures
GENERAL PROCEDURES
Keloidectomy Skin cancer removal Biopsy Lipoma Excision Scar Revision Skin Tag Removal Ear Lobe Repair Foreign Body Removal Nailbed Repair Trauma Lacerations Cyst Excision

Dr Phalafala’s Commitment

Dr Phalafala's success lies in her collaborative, detail-oriented approach to complex surgery. She develops personalised treatment plans focused on each patient’s unique needs, supported by a foundation of empathy, communication, and clinical excellence. Her goal is to provide transformative outcomes through reconstructive and cosmetic surgery that not only enhance form and function but also restore confidence and quality of life.

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