Surgery is most commonly performed between six months and two years of age, with the exact timing depending on the type and complexity of the polydactyly. Operating during this early window allows the hand or foot to develop normally as the child grows, supporting coordination and motor development from an early stage. In cases where the extra digit is a simple soft tissue tag without bone, the procedure may be performed earlier. More complex cases involving fully formed digits with shared tendons may benefit from slightly delayed surgery to allow for more detailed planning.

The surgery involves removing the extra digit and carefully reconstructing the tendons, ligaments, skin, and other structures shared between the extra digit and the adjacent normal finger or toe. This reconstruction is essential to ensure the remaining digit functions and looks completely normal. The surgical plan is adapted to the specific anatomy of each case, and the goal is always a balanced, proportionate, and fully functional hand or foot. With proper technique and follow-up, the normal digit is not compromised, and most children achieve excellent long-term outcomes.

Scars from polydactyly surgery are minimised through careful incision planning and surgical technique, and they continue to fade and improve over months and years following the procedure. They are not typically prominent or distressing in the long term. Physiotherapy or hand therapy may be recommended in some cases to support strength, coordination, and movement recovery in the hand or foot, particularly where tendons were involved in the reconstruction. Follow-up care at Galwa Care Hospital ensures the child's development is tracked and any additional support is provided promptly.

Yes, polydactyly can affect one or both hands, one or both feet, or a combination. When treated early and with appropriate surgical planning, most children achieve excellent functional outcomes with normal or near-normal use of the hand or foot. Recurrence following well-performed surgery is very rare. The vast majority of children who undergo polydactyly correction at the appropriate age go on to develop normally and participate in all the activities of childhood and adult life with full confidence and complete hand or foot function.