What to Expect After Bunion Surgery

Bunions are a prominently irritating condition that can develop in individuals of all ages, but are more common for some than others. A bunion can cause so much pain that everyday activities like walking can become difficult. While there are many options for treating bunion pain, bunion correction surgery is the only way to truly correct a painful bunion.

Fortunately, today’s modern bunion correction surgery options are less invasive and can lead to quicker recovery times, like the industry-leading bunion correction technology our podiatrists use at East Village Foot & Ankle Surgeons.

Surgery of any kind can be disruptive to your routines. Even minimally invasive surgery should be done with careful consideration and preparation. Learn more about what to expect after bunion surgery, how to have the most successful bunion surgery recovery and more!

How do bunions develop in the first place?

There are two main reasons why some people develop bunions and others don’t: genetic predisposition or biomechanical imbalance. If Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa had bunions, there is a chance that trait will be passed down. Secondly, bunions can appear anytime, from adolescence through retirement, due to repetitive squeezing or rubbing of the big or pinky toe, which can be caused by tight footwear. The pressure causes constant rubbing of the affected joint and can be extremely painful. As with all foot conditions, the affected area will become more prominent over time.

Women tend to be more likely to develop bunions than men, and some studies have shown that wearing high-heeled shoes can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, women are more likely to develop arthritis, which can also lead to bunions.

Types of Bunion Correction Surgery

Surgery is by far the most effective way to correct a bunion, and fortunately, modern bunion correction surgery options can offer better longevity and less pain during recovery. Our podiatrists at EVFAS will discuss each surgical option with you so together, we can choose the best choice for your condition.

Bunion Osteotomy

A bunion osteotomy is a procedure designed to realign the affected toe joint. During this surgery, the physician makes a bone cut to realign the joint, then fixates the area with screws to maintain correction. The procedure typically takes an hour to perform, and patients often go home the same day.

Bunion Arthrodesis

Bunions can be a result of arthritic joints. For such patients, bunion arthrodesis is the best surgical treatment option. The procedure involves replacing the damaged areas of the affected joint with plates, screws, or wires. Bunion arthrodesis can also correct severe cases of bunions and treat patients who have undergone a failed surgical procedure in the past.

Bunion Exostectomy

A bunion exostectomy is the least common treatment option for patients who suffer from bunions. The procedure removes the bump on the affected joint entirely but doesn’t treat the joint itself. Therefore, this procedure ignores the underlying condition. Physicians often use it with other methods to fully treat one’s condition.

When is it finally time for bunion surgery?

If you begin to notice the signs and symptoms of bunions, we suggest scheduling an evaluation with an experienced podiatrist right away. This condition is progressive, so getting treatment early is the best way to avoid pain or discomfort and prevent worsening conditions. After an examination by our physicians at EVFAS, we will work directly with you to decide on a treatment option. If pain and discomfort are prominent, you may qualify for bunion correction surgery.

How to Prepare for Bunion Surgery

For any surgery, the preparation and the recovery process can cause patients a great deal of anxiety. Each surgical patient will have a consultation appointment to discuss all surgery information prior to his/her procedure. This appointment takes place at your local East Village Foot and Ankle location with a surgery coordinator and your surgeon.

This is a great opportunity for the patient to review instructions, discuss their tailored recovery plan and for the physician to answer any questions. Each surgical patient should leave their pre-surgical consultation feeling completely comfortable and knowledgeable about their surgical plan. EVFAS encourages surgical patients to include a family member or friend (preferably someone who will be assisting them at home after the procedure) to join them for the pre-operative appointment.