Carpal tunnel surgery Brisbane

“I thought it was just a sore wrist”: Early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome people often ignore

Have you noticed tingling in your fingers, or a dull ache in your wrist that seems to be getting worse? You’re not alone: many people assume these symptoms are due to strain or overuse. But in some cases, they’re actually early warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that can lead to permanent nerve damage if left untreated.

First published
Last updated
June 12, 2025

Carpal tunnel syndrome Brisbane & Gold Coast

The subtle signs of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t usually appear overnight. It tends to start gradually with:

  • Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index or middle finger
  • A burning sensation or “pins and needles” that wake you at night
  • Difficulty gripping everyday objects like your phone or steering wheel
  • A sense that your hand is “falling asleep” more often

It’s easy to dismiss these as minor annoyances, but they could indicate pressure on the median nerve, the main nerve that runs through your wrist. Over time, that pressure can affect your hand strength and coordination.

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It’s common for people to mistake early nerve compression for general wrist pain. But over time, these symptoms can begin to affect work, sleep and daily activities.

Dr Andrew Hadj - Plastic Surgeon Brisbane | Abdominoplasty Brisbane cost
Dr Andrew Hadj

Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)

Carpal tunnel surgery Brisbane: what does the procedure involve?

What is carpal tunnel surgery?

Carpal tunnel decompression surgery is a day procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore function to the hand.. It’s performed under local or general anaesthetic, with the goal of restoring normal sensation and function in your hand.

Many people are surprised by how straightforward recovery is. After surgery:

  • You can go home the same day
  • Light duties are fine after about 5 days
  • You can drive and return to most activities within 2 weeks
  • Scar management and hand therapy support are provided

Many patients experience relief from symptoms such as night-time tingling or discomfort. Earlier treatment may support better outcomes.

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Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220

Do I need to see a hand surgeon?

If you’re searching for a hand surgeon in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, you may already suspect something more than overuse is going on.

Plastic surgeons are trained in microsurgery and nerve surgery; in fact, plastic surgeons are also hand surgeons by training. Dr Hadj provides individualised clinical assessment and will discuss both surgical and non-surgical options where appropriate.

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The most important thing is that we catch the signs early. With a simple nerve test and a conversation, we can work out the best plan for you.

Dr Andrew Hadj - Plastic Surgeon Brisbane | Abdominoplasty Brisbane cost
Dr Andrew Hadj

Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)

What happens next?

If you’re worried about hand or wrist symptoms, here’s what to expect:

  1. Initial consultation
    We’ll talk about your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history and conduct a physical exam.
  2. Nerve conduction study
    This test confirms the diagnosis and helps us understand how severely the nerve is affected.
  3. Your treatment options
    We’ll walk you through both non-surgical therapies and surgical options if needed.
  4. Surgery and recovery
    If surgery is the right choice, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared with tailored post-operative care.
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Where do you operate?

I consult from my private rooms at Mater Private Clinic and I operate as a plastic surgeon at many private hospitals in Brisbane, Queensland.

I can see Gold Coast patients from my private rooms: Shop 9/109 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Waters. I operate at

Carpal tunnel surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast

Take the next step

If you’ve been googling carpal tunnel surgery Brisbane or hand surgeon on the Gold Coast, now might be the right time to act especially if symptoms are getting worse.

Carpal tunnel doesn’t fix itself. But with the right care, you can get back to living without pain, numbness or sleep disruption.

Dr Andrew Hadj | Hand Surgeon, Skin Cancer and Cosmetic Surgery