By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Dr. Haci Kutlu, on Sep 15, 2024

What is Bunion Surgery?

Bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, fixes a bunion. A bunion is a bump on the joint at the base of your big toe. This surgery helps to ease pain and straighten the toe.

Bunion Surgery Recovery Timeline

How long will the recovery take? Recovery usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks.
How long will they need to stay in Turkey? Patients typically stay in Turkey for about a week to ten days after surgery.
When can the patient return to work? Most people can go back to work in about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on their job.
When can the patient return to exercise? Light exercise can start again in about 6 to 8 weeks, but heavy activities might take longer.
When will the final results be visible? Final results show in about 3 to 6 months, once all swelling is gone.
What type of activities to avoid? Avoid high-impact activities like running and jumping for at least 3 months.
What type of diet should the patient expect after the surgery? A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals is best for healing. Drink plenty of water, too.

How Does Bunion Surgery Procedure Work

Consultation

During the consultation, the doctor will check your foot, talk about your symptoms, and go over your medical history. They will explain the surgery, the risks, and what you can expect.

Before the Surgery

Before the surgery, you need to stop taking any blood-thinning medicines. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks. Make sure you have someone to drive you home after surgery. Plan to take time off work to rest and heal.

The Surgery

During surgery, the doctor will make a cut near the bunion. They will realign the bones and remove extra tissue. They might use screws, wires, or plates to keep the bones in place.

Follow-Up

Follow-up visits happen a few days to a week after surgery. These visits let the doctor check how you are healing and answer any questions.

Side Effects of Bunion Surgery Procedure

Pain and swelling
Infection
Stiff toe joint
Bunion coming back
Nerve damage
Blood clots

Bunion Surgery Results

Most people are happy with their bunion surgery. It often leads to less pain and better foot function. Studies show that 85% of patients are satisfied with the results.

How to Prepare for Bunion Surgery

Stop taking blood-thinning medicines
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before the surgery
Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery
Plan to take at least a week off work to rest and heal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is bunion surgery?

Bunion surgery, or a bunionectomy, removes a bunion and realigns the bones in the big toe.

How long does bunion surgery take?

Bunion surgery usually takes about one to two hours.

Is bunion surgery painful?

You will be under anesthesia during surgery, so you won't feel pain. Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain medicine can help.

How do I know if I need bunion surgery?

If you have constant pain and other treatments haven't worked, you might need bunion surgery. Talk to a doctor to find out if it's right for you.

What are the risks of bunion surgery?

Risks include pain, swelling, infection, stiff toe joint, bunion coming back, nerve damage, and blood clots.

Can bunions come back after surgery?

While rare, bunions can return if you don't follow proper care after surgery.

How should I prepare for bunion surgery?

Stop taking blood-thinning medicines, avoid smoking and alcohol, and arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

When can I wear normal shoes after bunion surgery?

You can usually start wearing normal shoes about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, depending on your recovery.

What type of shoes should I wear after bunion surgery?

Wear comfortable, supportive shoes with a wide toe box to avoid pressure on your healing foot.

Can I walk after bunion surgery?

You can walk with the help of a special surgical shoe or boot shortly after surgery. Avoid full weight-bearing activities for several weeks.