What to Expect After Your Bunion Surgery

Like the classic boy scouts’ motto, it’s a good idea to always “be prepared.” When you know what to expect, you can make arrangements to handle the challenges and issues that may come your way. Being prepared is especially important for big things like surgery, which is why it’s a good idea to learn what to expect following a procedure like bunion surgery before it happens.

No Two Surgeries Are Alike

Bunion surgery is a fairly big procedure to correct a forefoot deformity. Exactly how the bulge is corrected may vary from person to person based on individual needs. The end result, however, is that the big toe and first metatarsal are realigned so the joint where the two meet no longer bulges out, and the bump there is reduced.

Once the actual surgery is completed, you begin the crucial post-op care, which helps your foot heal correctly. Without it you have a greater risk for complications or infections, which is why knowing what to expect can help you prepare. The initial part of the recovery typically lasts two to four weeks, though your foot will need several more months to be completely healed.

In the first couple three weeks following surgery, you’ll wear a protective boot to keep your joint safe and prevent your big toe from moving too much. You won’t be able to walk on that limb, since pressure could actually damage your forefoot and cause the bunion to return. You’ll most likely need to ice your foot and keep it propped up as much as possible to combat swelling and inflammation.

Once the boot comes off, you’ll slowly begin putting weight back on that foot again. You may start physical therapy as well to rebuild your foot’s strength and restore some range of motion to your big toe.

We’re With You For and After Surgery

Once you no longer need a brace and can walk normally again, you’ll need to continue being careful with your lower limbs and wearing shoes that support you without contributing to bunions. Fortunately, you won’t go through any of the post-surgery recovery alone. Our specialists with The Kanas Foot Center will be with you every step of the way to ensure your bunions heal well. Contact our Wichita office at (866) 222-5177 for more information about bunion surgery and your recovery today.