When it comes to discussing about a bunion surgery, the most frequently asked question is “How long is the recovery time?” Just like all other surgeries, cosmetic foot surgeries such as bunionectomy, the recovery time depend on each individual’s body. Recovery can mean different things for different people. Some people consider themselves in a recovery state as they are able to walk, others may consider themselves recovered when they can run a whole marathon. But for most, recovering means that they are able to resume their regular daily activities. If you are considering a bunionectomy for foot pain but are not sure if you have the time to recover, consider these circ*mstances.
A Bunionectomy includes:
- Removing the swollen tissue from the big toe joint
- Removing part of the bone to straighten the big toe
- Permanently joining the bones of the big toe joint
When Can I Walk After Bunion Surgery?
Following a bunionectomy, patients are to stay home and rest with their feet elevated for roughly three days. After that, most patients can perform regular daily activities such as resuming work or going out to paint the town. However, restrain from being on your feet for too long. Here are three types of bunions and their recovery times below to help you estimate your time of recovery depending on your type of severity. Remember, not everyone will recovery at the exact time. Patience is the key to recovery.
Mild Bunion Operation – when the bump or spurs are just removed. 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.
Moderate Bunion will require the removal of the bump in addition to the first metatarsal being cut and moved into the correct positioning. The boot will be worn for four weeks.
Severe Bunion requires a fusion of a joint or Lapidus which is performed with screws or plate with screws. Patients with severe bunions will be in a knee cast for six to eight weeks. Crutches or a roll about walker will be used for balancing. Once the cast is removed, the boot is worn for an additional two weeks followed my physical therapy.
Don’t let your bunion go from moderate to SEVERE!Make an appointment to discuss how Dr. Jamshidinia can get you out of pain and back to your life!
Why Choose Dr. Jamshidinia for Bunion Treatment in Los Angeles?
Dr. Jamshidinia at Tower Foot and Ankle Surgery is a board certified foot surgeon trained in all areas of foot and ankle surgery. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He has many hours of experience in surgical removal of bunions.
- American Board of Podiatric Surgery – Diplomat
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons – Fellow
- Thousands of Before and After pictures
- Watch video testimonials from real patients
Dr. Jamshidinia has helped thousands of patients throughout his career helping them achieve excellent functional outcomes along with cosmetically natural and appealing outcomes. Visit Dr. Jam’s most comprehensive before and after gallery seen anywhere on the web.
FAQs
In many instances, patients have to stay off their feet for a full two weeks immediately after the surgery (during which time they are often in a great deal of pain). After this two-week post-operative period, patients may need to wear a protective cast or use crutches for the next six months –– or longer.
Why does it hurt to walk after bunion surgery? ›
Many times this pain happens after bunion surgery because the bone for the great toe was shortened a little too much during the correction of the bunion. The shape of the foot is changed and the patient's weight moves over to the next toes during walking.
What is the fastest way to recover from bunion surgery? ›
Keep your affected foot and leg elevated as much as possible, propping your foot up with pillows as needed. This reduces the overall amount of swelling and pain you have to cope with. Limit your walking as you recover after bunion surgery.
How long will my foot be stiff after bunion surgery? ›
The duration of pain after bunion surgery can vary from person to person. Generally, the initial postoperative pain and discomfort after surgery can last for several weeks to a few months. During this time, you may experience swelling, bruising, tenderness, and limited mobility in the foot.
Should I wiggle my toes after bunion surgery? ›
Operation to two weeks
You should wear the postoperative shoe, day and night. You can wiggle the toes, but the aim of this fortnight is to rest and get the skin wounds soundly healed. If you are sitting raise the foot on a chair, or by sitting across a sofa – this will reduce the swelling.
Do you limp after bunion surgery? ›
When your surgeon allows you to begin putting weight on your foot, your physical therapist will help you regain a normal walking pattern, or gait. It is not uncommon to limp after a bunion surgery or to develop a tendency to roll your foot outward in an effort to avoid rolling off the affected big toe.
What happens if you accidentally put weight on your foot after bunion surgery? ›
Putting any weight on an operated foot or ankle can damage the repair that's been done. Bones need time to heal. Plates or screws that may have been added during surgery need the bones to heal around them. Adding weight too soon can interrupt this important internal healing process.
What is the best pain relief after bunion surgery? ›
Elevation is the best way to decrease your pain and swelling. It only counts as elevation if your ankle is above your heart. Sitting in a chair with your foot on the coffee table is not enough. Please ice and elevate your leg for at least the first three days after surgery.
Can you mess up bunion surgery? ›
Essentially, bunion surgeries can fail in the following circ*mstances, each discussed below: the deformity is not fully corrected and hallux valgus persists or recurs. the deformity is overcorrected into varus. the bone doesn't heal, resulting in a nonunion.
Can you feel the screws after bunion surgery? ›
Screws used in minimally invasive bunions surgery are not placed near the joint, they just hold the bunion correction. Patients will not be able to feel the screws as they are placed within the bone. Screws are titanium alloy which are inert to the human body in the vast majority of cases.
Possible causes for excessive fatigue in the weeks following surgery include pain medications, infection, anemia, and depression.
How long to sleep with foot elevated after bunion surgery? ›
It's important to keep your foot elevated for at least the first week after surgery and preferably for two weeks. After that, you can gradually lower the elevation, but sleeping with your foot propped up for several weeks is still a good idea.
Can I walk 3 weeks after bunion surgery? ›
Traditional bunion surgery requires no weightbearing for 2 to 4 weeks, and some physicians even require up to 8 weeks of no walking. Below, is the post-operative protocol that I employ, which allows you to put pressure on your foot even on the day of your surgery.
How many days should you ice your foot after bunion surgery? ›
Put ice or a cold pack on your foot for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin. Prop up your foot and leg on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days.
When can I stop elevating my foot after surgery? ›
It is important to rest and keep your foot elevated above the level of your heart for 23 hours a day for the first 2 weeks after your surgery. Elevating of your foot will encourage healing and decrease the chance of wound infection and break down. It will also help with pain and swelling.
What is the recovery time for bunion surgery with screws? ›
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.
What not to do after bunion surgery? ›
You may need to refrain from driving for a week or more after surgery. Exercises or physical therapy may be recommended to help the foot recover its strength and range of motion after surgery. High heels should be avoided for at least 6 months after surgery.
