I had both of my hands done about 9 years ago (two weeks apart), it's very simple procedure (as surgeries go), they give you "happy juice" as well as an "ax block" (completely numbs the axilary nerve, you will have no feeling in that arm for a few hours). I'm sure some surgeons may do it differently, but this is how mine did it. He even videotaped it!
I have been amazed at the result, I had really advanced carpal tunnel from working on the computer for so long, I have not had any trouble whatsoever and nine years later I'm still great! Both of my wrists have a teeny scar but you really would never notice it unless it was your own wrist. Oh, and your mother would probably notice it too, but that's what moms are all about. 0:>)
Good luck to you. You'll be so happy once you're not dropping brushes anymore!