Beginners Guide: Bunion Surgery

Bunions are a common annoyance to Indianapolis area patients. They can make walking and daily activities painful, and can keep you from doing the things you love. If you suffer from bunions, Active Podiatry would like you to consider bunion surgery to get the relief that you need.
 

What to Expect From A Bunion Surgerypodiatrist examining a bunion

 
Bunion surgery, or a bunionectomy, generally involves an incision in the top or side of the big toe joint. The soft tissue and bone will usually be removed or realigned. Small wires, screws, or plates may be used to hold the bones in place. Bunion surgery has many options that fit a specific need of a patient. They include:
  1. Head procedures: This treatment includes the big toe joint. The bone is cut just behind the joint, moved into its proper position, and fixed in place with a screw or pin. Head procedures are typically used for patients who cannot be immobilized for long periods of time.
  2. Base procedures: This surgery is used on the bone or behind the big toe joint.

The different types of base procedures include:

  • Cutting a wedge out of the bone and splitting it so that it can be moved into proper position
  • Making a semi-circular cut and rotating the bone into its correct position
  • Fusing the joint
Our patients can expect an anesthetic to be used during the procedure that only affects the foot. A sedative may also be used. The bunion removal usually takes an hour or more, depending on the type of surgery. Bunionectomies are usually done as an outpatient surgery.
 
After surgery, recovery periods can last anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months, differing on how much soft tissue or bone was affected. Complete healing can take up to one year.
 

Some Things to Consider

  • Choose a surgeon with extensive bunion removal experience. Our podiatrists are trained and experienced to give you the best care possible.
  • Be realistic in your expectation about what a bunionectomy can accomplish. The bottom line is that a bunion can recur or you may not be 100% pain free. You may never be able to wear normal or trim shoes again. Besides these facts, bunion surgery can help make your day more enjoyable.
  • Bunion surgery can take a while to show its full effects. Long healing and recovery times, as well as possible therapy can be part of it.
If you have tried everything else to cure your bunions and are curious about bunion surgery, learn more by visiting our podiatry office. Call us or schedule an appointment today.

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