Bunion Surgery

What is a bunion? 

A bunion is a bony protrusion located at the base of the big toe. This is actually not a new bone growth, but rather just the bone that is slowly being pushed outwards due to weak structures in the foot or abnormal foot mechanics.

How do you treat bunions?

The only treatment for bunions is through surgery. Bunion surgery usually involves realigning the first metatarsal so that the joint no longer deviates. This is done by applying local anesthetic to numb the affected foot. In some cases, a sedative may be used to calm the patient. The surgery usually lasts an hour or so and is commonly done on an outpatient basis. The aim of bunion surgery is to restore the normal alignment of the joints and eliminate pain. 

What are the major types of bunion surgery? Types of bunion surgery

1. Traditional Bunion Surgery

Traditional or Typical bunion surgery is done by making an incision, around 5 to 7 cm, to expose the bulging bone. Then a part of the metatarsal head is removed. This process is called bunionectomy or exostetomy. The bones are then positioned and pinned in place and excess bone is removed. In this type of bunion surgery, expect swelling and pain after surgery. It takes about 6 to 8 weeks for recovery to occur, during which time, crutches are required when moving around.

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

This is a new bunion surgery technique, also called no scar bunion surgery or scarless bunionectomy, is less invasive compared to the traditional type of surgery. This involves a very small incision, around 5mm or less. Then a live x-ray is used to help the surgeon locate the best place to cut the metatarsal bone. After cutting, the bone is repositioned to its adjacent metatarsal bones to get the foot as normal as possible. Once the bone is realigned to its ideal location, a pin is inserted to immobilize the bone and the incision is closed. Minimally invasive bunion surgery is virtually painless and the procedure is done as an outpatient basis. There is very little to no pain after surgery, and recovery time is only about 2 to 3 days.