How long does it take to recover from bunion surgery?

Usually, you will get your stitches out about two weeks after surgery. However, it takes about six to 12 weeks for your bones to heal. You will likely have to wear a protective shoe or boot. During this healing period, you won’t be able to put all of your weight on your foot.

How painful is bunion surgery recovery?

You will have pain and swelling that slowly improves in the 6 weeks after surgery. You may have some minor pain and swelling that lasts as long as 6 months to a year. After surgery, you will need to wear a cast or a special type of shoe to protect your toe and to keep it in the right position for at least 3 to 6 weeks.

How soon can you walk after bunion surgery?

Patients can immediately walk in a walking boot and will stay on for two weeks. Patients will transition to sneakers and sandals but heels will not be worn for another four weeks. In a sense, you can add 2 weeks to every 2 inch heels you would want to wear after you have transitioned into sneakers.

Do they put you to sleep for bunion surgery?

Most bunion surgery is performed under ankle block anesthesia, in which your foot is numb, but you are awake. Occasionally, general or spinal anesthesia is used. Generally, bunion surgery follows this process: You will be asked to remove clothing and will be given a gown to wear.

What happens if you leave a bunion untreated?

Difficultly standing or walking – Bunions left untreated may literally knock you right off your feet, may alter one’s gain or balance, or increase risk of falls in elderly; Poor social and or physical functioning can lead to poorer metal health and less satisfaction in life.

Are you put to sleep for bunion surgery?

Most bunion surgery is performed under ankle block anesthesia, in which your foot is numb, but you are awake. Occasionally, general or spinal anesthesia is used.

Do bunions get worse with age?

Over time, the foot bones are squeezed into an unnatural formation causing damaged anatomy and pain. It’s also a well-known fact that as we age, or gain weight, our feet spread and that worsens the problems already in place or triggers the development of bunions.

Does your shoe size change after bunion surgery?

The vast majority of patients who undergo bunion surgery experience a dramatic reduction of foot pain after surgery, along with a significant improvement in the alignment of their big toe. Bunion surgery will not allow you to wear a smaller shoe size or narrow-pointed shoes.

Do screws stay in after bunion surgery?

Your in-office screw removal -It is necessary to remove the 2 screws (around 3 months after your bunion surgery) since they cross over a functioning joint. If we don’t take them out, there will be a low grade ache and eventually they will both break.

Can bunions go away on OWN?

Bunions won’t go away without treatment. If left untreated, bunions get worse. Treatment is geared to slow the progression of the bunion and reduce the pain. Yet, there are some cases where a doctor suggests a bunionectomy.

While recovery after bunion surgery takes about six to eight weeks, full recovery from bunion removal surgery can take an average of four to six months. For the first two weeks following your surgery, you’ll wear a surgical boot or cast to protect your foot. You should avoid getting your stitches wet.

What is the recovery period after bunion surgery?

Depending on the amount of bone and soft tissue affected, the general recovery period after bunion surgery can last for 6 weeks to 6 months. Additionally, it may take up to a year for complete recovery to occur. The ability to walk and perform other activities improves after the bunionectomy.

Why is bunion surgery so painful?

Bunion surgery is not particularly “more” painful than other surgeries. Foot surgery, in general, can lend itself to increased pain post-operatively because the foot is below the level of the heart and blood can rush to the area, causing a throbbing feeling.

What to expect after bunion surgery?

Among the things you can expect from bunion surgery recovery are initial pain, discomfort, or soreness, and stiffness in the area. Over time, this discomfort typically lessens, and you should gradually gain improved movement in your big toe.