What is Lapiplasty?
Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction is a revolutionary procedure through which foot and ankle surgeons tackle the foundation of your bunion problem. This procedure not only alleviates your foot pain, but it also significantly reduces the chances of you ever having to suffer another bunion again.
A bunion forms when your big toe pushes on your neighboring toe due to a weakened bone foundation. This can cause mild to severe pain and also causes some excess bone to stick out. Traditional surgeries simply cut off the excess bone and, since the weakened foundation is left untreated, your bunion can easily return again.
With Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction treatment, your podiatrist doesn't cut off the excess bone. Instead, they realign your bones properly and further strengthen their weakened foundation with titanium fillings. Since they take care of the root of your bunion problem, the chances of you having to experience this painful foot situation again are highly decreased.
What are the results of Lapiplasty?
Success of Lapiplasty has shown potential to far exceed the results of traditional bunion surgery. Published research shows a 97.3% success rate with Lapiplasty.
Is Lapiplasty covered by Insurance?
Lapiplasty surgery is for a true orthopaedic condition and is most frequently covered by most commercial and government insurances. Each insurance plan is different, and cost may be subject to deductible, coinsurance, and maximum out of pocket. For most insurances we can provide an estimate after your initial consultation.
How long does the Lapiplasty procedure take?
The Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction procedure is an outpatient surgery that only takes about 60-90 minutes to complete depending on your deformity. Lapiplasty is a same-day surgery, you will go home the same day.
Can I return to normal activity after the Lapiplasty procedure?
You can definitely return to your day-to-day activities after the surgery, though you need some recovery time. Most patients typically begin walking again - with the assistance of a surgical boot 3+ days after your surgery.
Most patients return to walking shoes between 6-7 weeks after the surgery, low impact activity around 3 to 3 1/2 months, and back to all activity and exercise around 4 months. It is important to note, however, that everyone's recovery is different.
Am I too young or old for Lapiplasty?
Lapiplasty is approved for patients as young as 16 years old, so long as the growth plates of the bones are closed. There is no upper age limit; however, sometimes, older patients with bunions may have developed arthritis with the bunion, and this might change the surgical options.
Do I need to be put to sleep for surgery?
Usually, yes. Most patients get a "lighter" anesthesia, where you are asleep but wake up more gently.
Will surgery be painful?
All surgery causes pain. We do everything we can to help with the pain. We will use a nerve block, extra anesthetic called TXA, and have a post-operative pain medication protocol in place. Your pain regimen will be enhanced with following proper icing and elevating instructions.
When will I be able to walk after surgery?
Most patients are able to start walking, in a boot, on day 3 after surgery. The boot is worn for at least 6 weeks.
What if I live out of town/out of state?
Dr Kinghorn will need to see you prior for an initial consultation and pre-operative appointment within 30 days of surgery. We can work with you on arranging a dressing change for 3 days post operatively either by yourself or a local physician. Dr Kinghorn will need to see you 2 weeks post operatively for a suture removal and again 6 weeks post operatively for final evaluation.
Will I need to use any assistive devices (wheelchair, walker, cane, etc.) after surgery?
A device to assist with non-weightbearing will be needed for the first 3 days after surgery. Dr Kinghorn recommends crutches but if those are not feasible then a roll-about scooter will be arranged.
When will I return to work after surgery?
Patients' time returning to work differs by each case. Generally, most patient return to work between 4-6 weeks. We recommend returning no sooner than 2 weeks to focus on swelling control.
When can I drive after surgery?
Driving is not recommended while on pain medication. Following surgery on your right foot, return to driving may be as short as a few weeks, if you are comfortable, while wearing a surgical shoe.
What if I need surgery on both feet?
Dr Kinghorn recommends no less than 12 weeks between surgeries.
How long will my swelling last?
Swelling is common after all foot surgeries. It is not unusual to have swelling for 9-12 months.
What about my surgical scar?
Fortunately, scars of the foot are very forgiving and, if treated well, will fade to almost invisible by 1 year in most cases. It is important in the first year that you do not get suntan or sunburn to your foot and to use sunscreen. This prevents pigmentation of the scar.
