Table of Contents
Bunionplasty: A Modern, Minimally Invasive Approach to Bunion Correction
Introduction
What is a Bunion?
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It develops when the bones in the foot become misaligned, causing the big toe to shift toward the other toes. Symptoms of bunions include:
- A visible bump on the side of the foot
- Pain, redness, and swelling around the big toe joint
- Difficulty wearing shoes due to pressure and discomfort
- Restricted movement in the big toe
If left untreated, bunions can worsen, leading to increased pain and difficulty walking.
What is Bunionplasty?
Bunionplasty is an advanced, minimally invasive bunion correction surgery that realigns the bones of the foot while preserving soft tissue. Unlike traditional bunion surgery, which often involves large incisions and extended recovery times, bunionplasty uses small incisions and specialized techniques to reduce trauma to the foot.
Benefits of Bunionplasty
Patients choose bunionplasty for several reasons, including:
- Minimally invasive technique 鈥� Smaller incisions mean less pain, swelling, and scarring.
- Faster recovery time 鈥� Many patients can return to regular activities sooner than with traditional surgery.
- Improved cosmetic outcome 鈥� Less visible scarring for a more natural appearance.
- Less post-operative pain 鈥� Reduced trauma to the surrounding soft tissue minimizes discomfort during healing.
Who is a Good Candidate for Bunionplasty?
Bunionplasty is recommended for patients who:
- Have mild to moderate bunions that cause pain or affect daily activities
- Want a faster recovery time compared to traditional bunion surgery
- Prefer a minimally invasive procedure with minimal scarring
- Have tried conservative treatments (orthotics, pain relievers, or lifestyle changes) without relief
A podiatrist will assess your condition and determine if bunionplasty is the right treatment for you.
The Bunionplasty Procedure
Bunionplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The steps include:
- Small Incisions: Instead of a large cut, tiny incisions are made to access the bunion.
- Bone Realignment: The misaligned bone is carefully repositioned to restore proper foot structure.
- Internal Fixation: Small, low-profile screws or pins may be used to hold the bones in place.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with minimal sutures, reducing scarring.
Recovery and Aftercare
Compared to traditional bunion surgery, bunionplasty offers a quicker recovery period. Most patients can expect:
- Weight-bearing within days (with proper support and footwear)
- Reduced swelling and discomfort compared to conventional bunion surgery
- Returning to normal activities in weeks, rather than months
To ensure a smooth recovery, follow these aftercare tips:
- Wear a protective boot or surgical shoe as advised by your doctor.
- Keep your foot elevated to minimize swelling.
- Avoid high-impact activities until cleared by your podiatrist.
- Follow up with your doctor to monitor healing progress.
Potential Risks and Complications
Although bunionplasty is considered safe, potential risks include:
- Mild swelling and discomfort
- Temporary numbness or stiffness in the foot
- Risk of bunion recurrence (though significantly lower than with traditional surgery)
Discuss any concerns with your podiatrist to ensure a successful outcome.
Why Choose University Foot & Ankle Institute?
Bunionplasty is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that offers effective pain relief, improved foot function, and a faster recovery compared to traditional bunion surgery. If you鈥檙e struggling with bunion pain and looking for a less invasive treatment option, consult a podiatrist to determine if bunionplasty is right for you.
At University Foot & Ankle Institute, our board-certified podiatrists offer expert care for conditions like painful bunions. We provide advanced treatment options, from conservative care to surgical solutions, ensuring personalized care for every patient.
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),
