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Bunion Surgery: What to Expect from This Common Foot Procedure
Introduction
Bunions are a painful and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people. If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, bunion surgery may be the best option. This procedure helps correct the misalignment of the big toe joint, reducing pain and improving mobility. This article will cover everything you need to know about bunion surgery, including the types of procedures, benefits, recovery, and what to expect before and after the surgery.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition develops when the bones in the foot become misaligned, causing the big toe to lean toward the other toes. Common symptoms include:
- A visible bump on the side of the foot
- Swelling, redness, or soreness around the joint
- Persistent pain, especially when wearing tight shoes
- Restricted movement of the big toe
If left untreated, bunions can worsen over time, making walking and daily activities difficult.
Who Needs Bunion Surgery?
Bunion surgery is recommended for patients who:
- Experience severe pain that interferes with daily activities
- Have difficulty wearing shoes due to the bunion鈥檚 size
- Suffer from chronic inflammation and swelling that doesn鈥檛 improve with treatment
- Have toe deformities, such as overlapping toes
A podiatrist will assess your condition and determine if surgery is the best course of action.
Types of Bunion Surgery
- Osteotomy 鈥� The surgeon cuts and realigns the bone to correct the bunion.
- Exostectomy 鈥� The bony bump is removed without correcting the alignment.
- Arthrodesis 鈥� The damaged joint is fused to alleviate pain and improve stability.
The Bunion Surgery Procedure
Bunion surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. The steps include:
- Preparation: Your foot is numbed with local anesthesia or general anesthesia is administered.
- Surgical Correction: The surgeon makes an incision, removes or realigns the bone, and secures it with screws or pins if necessary.
- Closure & Recovery: The incision is closed with sutures, and the foot is bandaged for protection.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Most patients can expect:
- Initial Healing (2-6 weeks): Swelling and discomfort are common; weight-bearing is limited.
- Full Recovery (3-6 months): Patients gradually return to normal activities and may need physical therapy.
After surgery, follow these guidelines for a smooth recovery:
- Keep weight off your foot as advised by your doctor.
- Wear a protective boot or cast to stabilize the foot.
- Elevate your foot to reduce swelling.
- Follow up with your podiatrist to monitor healing progress.
Potential Risks and Complications
While bunion surgery is generally safe, possible risks include:
- Infection or poor wound healing
- Stiffness or numbness in the foot
- Recurrence of the bunion
- Pain from hardware used in surgery
Discussing these risks with your podiatrist can help ensure a successful outcome.
Why Choose University Foot & Ankle Institute?
Bunion surgery is an effective solution for those suffering from chronic pain and mobility issues due to bunions. By correcting the deformity and alleviating discomfort, this procedure can significantly improve quality of life. If you鈥檙e struggling with bunion pain that affects your daily activities, consult a podiatrist to explore your surgical options.
At University Foot & Ankle Institute, our board-certified podiatrists offer expert care for conditions like bunions. We provide advanced treatment options, from conservative care to surgical solutions, ensuring personalized care for every patient.
Board-Certified Podiatric Foot and Ankle Specialist, Dr. Gary Briskin, DPM, FACFAS, began his medical training by serving a residency at Flint General Hospital in Michigan. Once completed, he established a practice in Century City Hospital, where he soon became chief of podiatric surgery.
Dr. Briskin is a Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He also serves as an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and is co-founder and co-director of University Foot and Ankle Institute.
Dr. Bob Baravarian DPM, FACFAS is a Board-Certified Podiatric Foot and Ankle Specialist. He is an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and serves as Director of University Foot and Ankle Institute.
Dr. Baravarian has been involved in athletics his entire life and played competitive tennis in high school and college. He has an interest in sports medicine, arthritis therapy, and trauma/reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. He is also fluent in five languages (English, French, Spanish, Farsi, and Hebrew),
