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Trigger Finger

Introduction

Introduction to Trigger Finger Surgery

Trigger finger may sound like something from an old Western, but for those living with it, the reality is far less entertaining. This condition causes one or more fingers to lock, click, or catch when bent or straightened. For some people, the finger eventually gets “stuck” in position, making everyday tasks like gripping a coffee mug, typing on a keyboard, or buttoning a shirt frustrating and painful.

At Queen City Plastic Surgery in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Enam Haque brings specialized expertise to the treatment of trigger finger. With fellowship training in hand surgery in addition to his board certification in plastic surgery, Dr. Haque has helped many patients find long-term relief from the pain and stiffness.

A man in a black shirt sitting and looking toward a window. - Trigger Finger in Charlotte, NC

What is Trigger Finger?

Also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, trigger finger is a condition in which one of the fingers becomes stuck in a bent position. Your finger may unbend with a snap, as if a trigger is being pulled and released.

Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the space in the sheath surrounding the tendon in the affected finger. In case this condition is severe, your finger may become locked in a twisted position.

People who are involved in repeated gripping actions are more prone to getting this condition than others. It is also common in women and in those who have diabetes. The cure for this condition depends on its severity.

Surgical Treatment of Trigger Finger in Charlotte

Surgical treatment involves cutting through the affected part of the tendon sheath that joins the tendon to the finger bone to allow the tendon to move without difficulty.

The intensity of your pain will help to decide if you should have surgery or not, or if it is associated with other medical issues like rheumatoid arthritis.

Trigger finger is an irritation at first, but if left untreated, the affected finger or thumb may remain stuck in a bent or straightened position. This may make it hard to perform everyday tasks.  Surgery is extremely effective, and the problem hardly ever recurs in the treated finger or thumb, though you will have to rest your hand for a while and may need to be off work.

Outpatient surgery is short, and patients generally do not have to stay in the hospital for more than a day. The treatment is generally done under local anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain in your hand, even though you will be awake.

There are two kinds of surgeries to correct trigger finger:

  • Percutaneous trigger finger release surgery
  • Open trigger finger release surgery

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you will not have to go through these treatments, as they may cause your finger to point sideways. In its place, a distinct procedure, a tenosynovectomy, may be recommended, which involves removing part of the tendon sheath to enable the tendon to move once more.

Dr. Haque putting on a blue surgical mask. - Procedures in Charlotte, NC

Who Are the Best Candidates For Trigger Finger Surgery?

Surgery may be recommended if:

  • Non-surgical treatments like rest, splinting, or steroid injections have not helped
  • Your finger frequently locks or gets stuck in a bent position
  • You experience significant pain that interferes with daily activities
  • You rely heavily on hand function for work, sports, or hobbies
  • You are in generally good health and able to undergo a minor outpatient procedure

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, your surgical plan may be slightly different, but you may still benefit from a procedure designed to restore function.

What Are the Benefits of Trigger Finger Surgery?

Most of our patients notice immediate improvement after surgery, with their fingers moving more easily right away. Other benefits include:

  • Relief from stiffness, clicking, and locking
  • Restored hand function for work, hobbies, and daily tasks
  • Reduced pain and inflammation
  • Permanent correction in the affected finger (recurrence is rare)
  • Minimal downtime compared to more complex hand procedures

In short, trigger finger surgery provides long-lasting results and allows patients to get back to their routines without constant discomfort.

What’s the First Step?

Your Trigger Finger Journey with Enam Haque, MD, FACS

The first step is scheduling a consultation at Queen City Plastic Surgery in Charlotte. During your visit, Dr. Haque will examine your hand, review your medical history, and determine the best treatment plan for your specific case. In some situations, he may recommend trying non-surgical treatments first.

If surgery is the right choice, he will explain the procedure, anesthesia options, recovery process, and what results you can expect.

A medical professional holding a clipboard while talking to a patient in a light blue clinic hallway. - Procedures in Charlotte, NC

What to Expect on the Day of Trigger Finger Surgery

Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release Surgery

In the open method of surgery, a local anesthetic is used; instead of making an incision in the palm, a needle is inserted into the base of the affected finger. The needle is used to cut through the ligament.

This surgery does not include an incision, so you will not have a wound or scar. But the treatment is a bit more dangerous compared to open surgery and may be less useful. Vital arteries and nerves are extremely close to the tendon sheath and can be damaged. This is why open surgery is generally preferred.

Open Trigger Finger Release Surgery

In this type of surgery, a local anesthetic is injected into the palm of the hand. Then, a little incision is made in the palm of the hand along one of the natural creases, which means that the scar will not be visible. The surgeon cuts through the tendon sheath to enlarge it. The wound will be fastened with stitches and covered with a bandage.

Trigger Finger Surgery Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Trigger Finger Surgery Care

You may notice soreness in your palm for a few days, but most patients can move their fingers almost immediately after the procedure. Light activities are typically resumed within a few days, while more strenuous hand use may take a few weeks.

Your surgeon may recommend simple exercises to help maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. Stitches are usually removed within two weeks, and scarring is minimal since the incision is small and placed in a natural crease of the palm.

Most patients experience complete relief of symptoms and return to full hand function within a few weeks.

How Much Does Trigger Finger Surgery Cost in Charlotte, NC?

The cost of your trigger finger surgery in Charlotte will be based on the type of surgery performed, anesthesia fees, and the facility where your procedure takes place.

During your consultation, our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate and review payment and financing options. Since trigger finger can significantly impact hand function, some insurance companies may cover part of the procedure if deemed medically necessary.

Why Choose Queen City Plastic Surgery?

At Queen City Plastic Surgery in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Enam Haque combines board certification in plastic surgery with fellowship training in hand surgery, giving him advanced expertise in delicate procedures like trigger finger release. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), highlighting his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development.

Patients at Queen City Plastic Surgery appreciate Dr. Haque’s personalized approach to every case. From your initial consultation to your recovery, you’ll receive attentive care designed to help you feel confident, comfortable, and fully supported.

Patient Reviews

  • Queen City is more than just a standard plastic surgery center. I was referred by my dermatologist and I am glad I was. Clean facility friendly staff. Highly recommend

    – Mark Orlando

  • Excellent experience! From the time you book your appointment to the follow up you receive after your procedure and every step in between is intentional, courteous, kind and professional.
    I recommend Dr. Enam to everyone seeking a good doctor who’s going to go above and beyond.

    – Owice A.

  • Wonderful experience with Dr. Haque and his whole staff. They were extremely pateint with all my questions, encouraging through the whole process, and I really wonderful care. Other physicians have since complimented his exceptional work with my reconstruction, and I am pleased as well. Would definitely recommend!

    – GM Burke

  • This is my second visit to this practice. I know from previous peri-op work experience that Dr. Haque is an excellent surgeon, well respected by his colleagues, and delivers excellent results.
    He is a fabulous listener and is completely upfront regarding realistic expectations. I had filler done today and can already see a positive difference. His clinical and admin staff are also friendly, helpful and welcoming. I will definitely be returning.

    – Cindy R.

Read More Reviews

Schedule Your Consultation

Contact us today to learn more about surgical treatment for trigger finger. Dr. Haque has completed fellowship training in hand surgery, in addition to his plastic surgery training, and has treated many cases of trigger finger. Contact us or call us at 704-859-2413 today.

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