What does bunion surgery do?
Bunion surgery will remove or realign the aforementioned bunion; a bone sticking out on your big toe. Bunions can become very painful and make daily life difficult.
There are bunion treatments that don’t involve surgery, including medications to help reduce pain and swelling, bunion pads, insoles in shoes, a splint to keep your toe straight, and making alterations to your shoes. Whilst these may help reduce the pain, they won’t stop your bunion from developing over time. Removing the bunion is the best option for long term success.
What will happen during my bunion surgery?
An anaesthetist will discuss with you the type of anaesthetic used and the process they will follow. You will be given the opportunity to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have.
Bunion surgery usually takes less than an hour and the procedure varies depending on the size of the bunion and shape of your foot. Your surgeon will make an incision into the skin over the bunion and remove some bone, before re-aligning it to straighten the side of your foot. Screws or wires may be used to ensure everything is kept in place; these are usually permanent unless your surgeon decides to remove them later.
How should I prepare for my bunion treatment?
Your consultant will provide you with all the relevant information before your procedure along with any preparation you may need to do in the days leading up to your surgery. It is important to tell your consultant about any medicines you may be taking, including any over the counter pain medicines such as paracetamol or aspirin.
Do not eat or drink 6 hours before you are due to have surgery otherwise your surgery may be delayed.
Please ensure you have a companion available to take you home after you leave OneWelbeck Orthopaedics.
It is a good idea to prepare for your surgery before you come in to OneWelbeck Orthopaedics including giving yourself more space by moving furniture and ensuring you have enough food, so you don’t have to go shopping immediately. It is advisable to have some extra help after the first few days after your surgery to give yourself the best chance to heal.
What risks are associated with bunion surgery?
As with any surgery, there are complications that can occur during or after bunion surgery including:
- A stiff toe or numb toe
- An abnormal toe position from the healing process
- Slow healing process
- An infection
- Pain under the ball of your foot due to change in weight distribution
- A reoccurring bunion
Your consultant orthopaedic surgeon will talk to you about any risk to surgery beforehand and help with any concerns you may have.
What aftercare process is in place following my bunion surgery?
After your operation, you will be watched by your dedicated nurse at OneWelbeck Orthopaedics for a few hours after your surgery. Your foot will be bandaged, and you may have a splint or cast to keep your foot in the right position.
Once you have seen your Consultant you will be able to go home the same day. You may be given crutches to help you walk for the first few days after your operation, and if needed you can take over-the-counter painkillers if you are in any pain.
Make sure you follow any advice given to you by your consultant orthopaedic surgeon including any advice on pain relief, wound dressing and any exercises you may be given.
