I am updating this thread, since I periodically get PMs on this topic!

I did remove the gelfoam and that was a bad move. While the edges of the wound were healed (new skin and all), the deeper core of the wound was raw and open and gooey. Removing the gelfoam was both painful (the process) and exposed an open, painful wound. The finger was quite tender and painful (without the protective gelfoam cover) and I think the removal probably extended the healing time. Scarring did not seem to be impacted (the scar is barely visible at this point, which is good!)