If you have a bunion on one or both of your feet, you’ll know. Bunions are bony bumps that form at the inner or outer edge of the base of your big toe. The bump itself is made of both bone and soft tissue and wearing shoes that are too small or too narrow can cause sufferers a lot of pain. It’s important to note that bunions are not caused by shoes, rather, only aggravated by them! If you have bunions and you’ve exhausted your nonsurgical options, it may be time to consider surgery.
The Surgery
Rather than getting a general anesthetic, you can get a local anesthetic called an ankle block, which will make you numb below the ankle. Once you’re fully numb below the ankle, your doctor will begin the surgery. There are different types of bunion correction surgery, the three most popular including an osteotomy, an exostectomy and an arthrodesis. Which type you have depends on the severity of the bunion.
Post-Surgery
You will recover in the recovery room while nurses continue to monitor your blood pressure and heart rate. The immediate recovery process usually takes six to eight weeks, but full recovery can take four to six months. Initially, you’ll have to wear a cast or a boot, followed by a supportive brace. You’ll need crutches until you can bear weight on the foot.
High Success Rates
Bunion surgery as a whole is extremely successful in reducing pain and correcting the visible bunion bump. In order to prevent future bunions, avoid wearing narrow-toed shoes. Our website features before-and-after photos from successful bunion removal surgeries. If you are interested in removing your bunion, call us to set up an appointment today!