I had carpal tunnel surgery in both hands at the same time. It took 5 months for the recovery to be able to use my hands correctly. The length of time was also due to arthritic thumbs. After the CTS, I had the bone at the base of my thumb removed for both hands but not at the same time. Prior to that, I would get injections in my thumbs for 3 years in one hand and 4 yrs. in the other. I'm good now.