Surgery for Bunions: Pros, Cons and Advice from a Podiatrist

If you are reading this, then chances are you are a part of the bunion family. Bunions can be problematic for many reasons such as pain, the aesthetic of them and the limited options of footwear.

Valuable advice from Ron McCulloh, the principal Podiatric Surgeon and Director of the London Podiatry Centre, will be given throughout this blogpost. Mr. McCulloh’s experience in podiatry and foot operations he has performed make him a true expert in the matter.

Please remember that the advice below is general, and if you are experiencing foot pain you need to see a podiatrist.

There are many ways to take care of your bunions, the most important factor being appropriate footwear for hallux valgus (medical term). If you are interested in the ways you can treat your bunions, do check our blog post on "How to get rid of your Bunions, Hallux Valgus: Myths and Facts". 

Surgery is an effective way to correct the position of the deviated bone. However, this surgery is one to consider and will not be suggested to everyone affected by bunions.  

Why? Surgery for bunions is for candidates who experience significant foot pains, with not being able to walk even with the appropriate footwear. It is also recommended to people who have their big toe overlapping over their other toes, making the toes to cross over. With this type of deviation, it is then made very difficult to find appropriate shoes. 

“Little changes” or "minimal surgery" may worsen and fragilise the foot: surgery should be considered for people with significantly painful bunions.

Note that there are different types of bunions, which require different types of surgery. Evaluating your bunion beforehand is crucial to determine what type of surgery will be right for you. This can also avoid the potential “regrowth” of your bunions that can happen after surgery.

Get Active again

After surgery and the full recovery of the foot, people suffering from painful bunions will be able to resume physical activities without any discomfort.

Depending on your bunion type and surgery, the full recovery period can be up to 6 months. This means that your mobility will be limited for that period of time. This may not be adequate with some people’s lifestyles.

Complications after surgery

Complications may occur after surgery which would affect the full recovery of the foot. It is important to always go to follow-up appointments and warn your surgeon if complications occur, such as the regrowth of the bunion, or unusual swelling. 

A Long Process  

If you think that getting rid of your bunions with surgery is just popping in the hospital and popping out with shiny brand new feet then you might want to consider the “behind the scenes” of such an operation.

Medical health and podiatry evaluations need to be made before the surgery to assess the grounds. Furthermore, follow-up sessions are recommended to follow through the recovery journey and help if any complications occur.