How long could it take to recover from carpal tunnel operation?

6 weeks: Most patients return to non-lifting work in 6 weeks after this surgery.

Depends: It depends on the type of surgery. A few weeks to six to even eight weeks.

Depends: Depends on what you mean by recover. The hand can be used right away for most activities. Gripping or pushing with the palm is painful for about 2 months and full grip strength does not return for 6 months. So return to wrok depends on your occupation.