Bunion Surgery 101
posted: Apr. 08, 2022.
Bunion Surgery 101
Bunions involve a toe joint that is out of proper alignment. It most commonly affects the big toe. The joint becomes misaligned, and it moves or deviates towards the second toe. A bunion also causes a bump at the base of the toe.
Some people have mild bunions that do not cause any problems. But in other instances, bunions become worse over time and may become painful. Treatment options include wearing a pad to cushion the bunion from irritation, wearing wider shoes, and wearing a bunion splint at night.
But in some cases, at-home treatment is not sufficient enough to treat the problem, and bunion surgery may be recommended.
Should you get bunion surgery?
If your bunion is severe or causing significant problems, surgery may improve functioning and decrease pain. It is best to see a foot specialist, or podiatrist and discuss options and decide if surgery is right for you. Bunion surgery may be a good option if you have the following:
- Pain that interferes with activities
- Pain that continues to get worse
- No pain relief after changing the type of shoe worn
- An inability to bend the toe
- Development of additional foot problems
What does bunion surgery involve?
There are different approaches to bunion surgery. But in most cases, the procedure can be performed with a minimally invasive surgical technique. Minimally invasive bunion surgery usually involves the following:
- It is performed with local anesthesia this reduces complications due to general anesthesia.
- The foot specialist makes small openings in the skin using special instruments.
- The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so no overnight hospital stay is required.
- Your foot specialist remodels the big toe joint and realigns it in the proper position.
Am I good candidate for bunion surgery?
Your podiatrist will discuss whether you are a good candidate for bunion surgery. In some cases, certain types of elective surgery may not be recommended for some people due to the risks of general anesthesia. But since general anesthesia is not used, most people can safely have the surgery.
Your podiatrist will likely discuss the risks of surgery and review your medical history and any underlying conditions that put you at an increased risk for infection or bleeding.
Your symptoms are also evaluated, especially your pain level. If your pain is significant or you have difficulty fitting shoes or if the bunion is causing other foot problems, you may be a good candidate for surgery.
What should I expect before surgery?
Your foot specialist will discuss information and how you should prepare for the procedure. Preoperative instructions and procedures may include:
- Blood tests to make sure you do not have any conditions that would prevent you from having surgery.
- Adjusting certain medications. Your foot specialist or family doctor may instruct you to adjust certain types of medications, such as blood thinners, a few days before the surgery to prevent excess bleeding. But do not stop taking any medications unless instructed.
How is the recovery after bunion surgery?
Bunion surgery is often successful at treating the condition and reducing pain. The speed of recovery may depend on a person’s overall health. Having the surgery performed using a minimally invasive procedure also may speed recovery and result in minimal post operative discomfort.
After the procedure, you will have a dressing applied to the area. You will also be given post-op instructions and any activity restrictions to follow. Your foot specialist will also schedule you for a follow-up appointment to see how you are healing.
If you have any questions about bunion surgery or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Podiatrist Sheldon Nadal, D.P.M at Bayview Eglinton Podiatry Clinic in Toronto.