Bunion removal surgery, sometimes called a bunionectomy, is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning patients will not have to spend the night in the hospital after the operation. However, depending on the procedure used to correct the deformity, it can take weeks or even months to fully recover from foot surgery.
Tips to Prevent Injury After Bunion Surgery
There are two different recovery periods for bunion surgery: the time it takes your wounds to heal, and the time before you can resume your regular activities. Most people will need six to eight weeks for wound healing, and up to six months before the underlying tissues have recovered from surgery.
It is never a good idea to rush your recovery, as this can lead to re-injury and additional surgeries. For example, here are a few things you should—and shouldn’t—do to help your recovery:
- Protect your foot. You may be placed in a surgical boot or cast for the first few weeks following your surgery. Stay off your feet as much as you can, and elevate the injured foot while sitting down.
- Prevent infection. Once the cast or boot is removed, you may need a brace to support the foot while it heals. You should watch for signs of infection daily, and ice the foot and toe to reduce swelling and inflammation. Avoid getting your stitches wet.
- Use your crutches. It will be some time before you can bear weight on your injured foot, and you may need crutches or a walker to help your mobility.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Do not wear tight shoes, high heels, or uncomfortable footwear after bunion removal. Your podiatrist can help with shoe selections to aid healing and prevent future bunions.
- Do your exercises. You may need physical therapy to learn exercises to strengthen your foot and lower leg.
Whether you have an ongoing condition or need immediate intervention for an injury, the foot and ankle specialists at Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry are here to help. We offer free initial consultations to determine the root cause of the problem, and create a customized treatment plan to get you back on your feet as soon as possible. Simply fill out our online contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET to set up your first visit.
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