Microsurgery for Web Finger Correction

Webbed fingers — a common condition that affects one out of every 2000-3000 babies — can impact the look and function of your hand.

If you’re considering surgery for webbed fingers and are wondering what that process involves, we’ve got you covered. Dr. Jonathan Liu and Dr. Huey Yuan Tien, our board-certified surgeons at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, perform microsurgery for web finger correction here in Visalia, Reedley, and Porterville, California.

Read on to learn more about microsurgery and how it can help restore the function of your hand.

Webbed fingers

Webbed fingers, also known as syndactyly, occur when two or more fingers are fused together. This condition can affect one or both hands and may involve just the skin or extend deeper into your bones and tissues. 

Note: Syndactyly can also cause webbed toes.

There are several types of syndactyly, each requiring a distinct surgical approach.

Simple syndactyly

In simple syndactyly, your fingers are joined only by skin and soft tissues. This is the most common and straightforward type to correct through microsurgery.

Complex syndactyly

Complex syndactyly occurs when not just your skin but also your bones, nerves, and blood vessels are fused between the digits. This type of syndactyly is more challenging to treat and usually requires advanced surgical techniques.

Complicated syndactyly

Complicated syndactyly involves additional structures, such as extra bones, tendons, or ligaments, in the fused fingers. It may also be linked to other genetic conditions or syndromes, which require more complex treatment and recovery.

Why consider microsurgery for web finger correction

If you or your child has webbed fingers, you may notice limited movement or difficulty gripping objects. The condition can also cause self-consciousness or emotional discomfort. 

Microsurgery gives each finger its own space and helps improve everyday hand use and confidence. 

All about microsurgery for web finger correction

Microsurgery is a precise surgical technique that utilizes specialized instruments and a microscope to operate on delicate structures, such as blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissues. 

The tiny tools used in microsurgery — forceps have tip diameters as small as 0.1 millimeters, with 11-0 or 12-0 sutures — are especially useful for delicate procedures like separating webbed fingers.

This surgery helps separate the fingers to restore:

• Better hand movement
• Improved function
• The appearance of your hand

During the surgery, Dr. Liu and Dr. Tien use high-powered magnification tools to separate your fused fingers carefully. They may use skin grafts to cover any open areas and support proper healing.

What to expect after your surgery

After surgery, you’ll wear a splint or bandage to protect your hand as it heals. You may also need physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility. Most people return to light activities within a few weeks, but a full recovery can take several months, depending on the complexity of your condition.

Is microsurgery safe?

Yes — especially when you're in expert hands. At Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, our highly trained surgeons who specialize in both hand surgery and microsurgery perform your web finger correction. 

Dr. Liu has advanced training in microvascular and microsurgical techniques. Dr. Tien was part of the team that performed the first hand transplant in the United States and has extensive experience treating complex conditions involving trauma, vascular surgery, joint repair, and soft tissue reconstruction. 

You're not just getting surgery — you're getting care from nationally recognized leaders in the field.

Talk to us about your next steps

If you or your child may need web finger correction, contact Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services. 

Call any of our locations —  Visalia, Reedley, or Porterville, California — or click here to schedule your consultation.