@heatherblynn Hi Heather - Yes, I can use/thread a needle, operate my sewing machine, do intricate weaving/fabric manipulation, use both scissors and rotary cutters, paint, and more.

On the first surgery, I think I went back to work after a week or so, in my splint, and didn't try to use the (non-dominant) hand until week 4 . After the second operation, I was already retired, but I was back using the hand gently, in the splint at 3-4 weeks. I was using watercolors, and sewing with my machine by then. Therapy and full recovery takes about 3 months, with full strength at 5-6 months.

Now, years later, I continue to use my hands extensively every day - sewing, painting, gardening, cooking and baking. During really heavy use, I still protect my thumbs with the splints.

Be prepared for a feeling of helplessness at first, but at least in my case, it was very worthwhile. Be sure to find a hand therapist (OT) who makes custom splints that are adjustable as you heal. My friend whose doc used off-the-shelf splints had a lot more issues.
Finally, don't wait too long to have the surgery - another friend "never had time" and by the time he was ready for surgery, the thumb joints had collapsed and he had to have them fused, so he has little use.

@heatherblynn
Am not an artist but I can thread a needle etc since surgery I have no pain to date. I did have pre pt to strengthen and had pt after because I had to desensitize my hyper active nerves
I was not allowed to use hand for 2 weeks post op. My
surgeon said most of his patients don’t even need pt post op. I did, I believe because of my reverse total shoulder on same arm. Surgery for me was worth it, feels like a normal thumb. It was a long recovery for me but worth it