Treatments
Bunionectomy
A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove painful bunions and realign the affected joint, providing relief from discomfort and restoring proper function to the foot. Bunions are not just a cosmetic issue — they can cause ongoing pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes or walking.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, our experienced team is dedicated to offering effective bunionectomy procedures that help patients regain comfort and mobility.
A bunionectomy is the surgical removal of a bunion, a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. The surgery involves removing the bony growth and realigning the bones of the foot to correct the deformity and relieve pain. Depending on the severity of the bunion, the procedure may involve additional steps, such as repairing soft tissues or fusing joints, to ensure proper healing and prevent recurrence.
- Chronic pain that interferes with daily activities.
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably due to the bunion.
- Swelling or inflammation that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments.
- Limited movement of the big toe.
- Severe bunion deformity that affects the alignment of other toes.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we offer various types of bunionectomy procedures depending on the severity of the bunion and the individual needs of each patient:
- What It Involves: In this procedure, the bony prominence (bunion) is shaved off, but the alignment of the toe joint is not corrected. This option is typically for mild bunions.
- Who It’s For: Patients with small bunions who are primarily seeking relief from the visible bump rather than joint realignment.
- What It Involves: In an osteotomy, the bones in the big toe are surgically cut and realigned to correct the joint deformity. Pins, screws, or plates may be used to hold the bones in place during healing.
- Who It’s For: This is a common option for moderate to severe bunions that require both bunion removal and joint realignment.
- What It Involves: Arthrodesis involves fusing the bones of the big toe joint to eliminate the deformity and prevent further movement at the joint. This procedure is typically used in more severe cases.
- Who It’s For: Patients with severe bunions or arthritis in the big toe joint that need more extensive correction.
- What It Involves: The Lapidus procedure involves fusing the joint at the base of the first metatarsal, stabilizing the toe and preventing the bunion from recurring.
- Who It’s For: Patients with severe bunions or those prone to bunion recurrence.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we take a patient-centered approach to bunionectomy, ensuring you understand each step of the process:
- Personalized Evaluation: During your consultation, we’ll perform a physical exam and take X-rays to assess the severity of your bunion and determine the best surgical approach.
- Detailed Discussion: We’ll discuss your treatment options, the risks and benefits of surgery, and the recovery process so you’re fully informed before making a decision.
- Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia may be used in some cases.
- Surgical Correction: Depending on the type of bunionectomy, the surgeon will remove the bunion, realign the bones, and repair soft tissues as needed.
- Closing the Incision: After the procedure, the incision is closed, and the foot is bandaged to protect the surgical site.
- Initial Recovery: You’ll likely wear a surgical boot or cast for a few weeks to protect your foot as it heals. Most patients can bear weight on their foot shortly after surgery, though this varies based on the procedure.
- Follow-up Care: We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress, remove any surgical hardware (if necessary), and guide you through physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility.
- Full Recovery Timeline: Full recovery from bunionectomy typically takes 6 to 12 weeks, with some patients experiencing longer healing times depending on the extent of the surgery.
A successful bunionectomy can have a transformative impact on your daily life, allowing you to:
Bunionectomy addresses the root cause of chronic bunion pain, providing long-lasting relief.
By correcting the deformity, you can regain proper foot function and mobility, making it easier to walk and wear shoes comfortably.
Regular foot exams with your podiatrist will ensure that any early signs of trouble are caught and treated before they worsen.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we are committed to helping you live pain-free with comprehensive foot care solutions, including bunionectomy surgery. Our experienced team provides personalized treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs and ensure the best possible outcomes. If you’re ready to find relief from bunion pain, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the first step toward pain relief — schedule your bunionectomy consultation today.
