The surgical treatment of congenital hand deformities consists of both deformity correction and functional reconstruction. In addition, the development of the deformity can be controlled and delayed. Rational selection of the timing of surgery requires comprehensive consideration of factors such as the child’s age, development, psychology, condition, whether the deformity is combined with other parts of the body, the clinical experience and skill of the surgeon, anesthesia and the level of monitoring during and after surgery. It is generally accepted that treatment of a complex congenital hand deformity is best completed before school entry, and for simpler deformities can be completed by 3-6 months of age. This is beneficial to the child’s psychological development and can reduce the residual local scars after surgery. Depending on the child’s condition and the current medical technology and facilities in China, surgical treatment for most congenital hand deformities can be started around the age of 1 year. Surgery in infancy and early childhood should take into account the fine tissue structure of the deformity, which makes the repair surgery difficult and requires a high level of operation that only a microsurgery-trained surgeon can perform, as well as the need for fine hand surgery and microsurgical instruments to cooperate. Therefore, patients must choose a professional hand surgeon rather than a major orthopedic surgeon when they are seen and treated.