Bunion Correction Surgery
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. While conservative treatments can help relieve discomfort, surgery may be necessary if bunion pain interferes with daily activities. At Iowa Ortho, our foot and ankle specialists perform advanced bunion correction surgery to restore foot alignment and improve mobility.
What is bunion correction surgery?
Bunion correction surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, is a procedure designed to realign the joint at the base of the big toe. Surgery removes or repositions the bony bump, straightens the toe, and restores normal foot function.
When is surgery needed?
Not all bunions require surgery. Patients may be candidates for bunion correction surgery if they experience:
- Persistent pain that limits walking or standing
- Inflammation and swelling that does not improve with rest or medication
- Toe deformity that worsens over time
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably
- Limited activity due to pain or restricted motion
Types of bunion surgery
Iowa Ortho’s foot and ankle specialists tailor procedures to each patient’s needs. Common surgical techniques include:
- Osteotomy – Cutting and realigning the bone to straighten the toe
- Exostectomy – Removing the bony bump from the toe joint
- Arthrodesis – Fusing the joint in severe cases for long-term stability
- Minimally invasive bunion surgery – Smaller incisions for reduced scarring and faster recovery
Recovery after bunion surgery
Recovery depends on the procedure performed. Patients may need:
- Protective footwear or a walking boot for several weeks
- Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
- Gradual return to activity as healing progresses
Most patients experience long-term relief from bunion pain and improved quality of life after surgery.
Why choose Iowa Ortho for bunion surgery?
- One fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon and two board-certified podiatrists
- Experience with both traditional and minimally invasive bunion correction techniques
- Comprehensive care from diagnosis through rehabilitation
- Personalized treatment plans for optimal outcomes
FAQs
Is bunion surgery painful?
Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain is usually well-managed with medication and improves within a few days. Most patients report long-term relief compared to the daily pain of living with a bunion.
How long does it take to recover from bunion surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure. Most patients can walk in a protective shoe within a few weeks, but full recovery may take 3–6 months. Your surgeon will guide you through a personalized recovery plan.
Will my bunion come back after surgery?
With proper surgical correction and post-operative care, the likelihood of a bunion returning is low. However, wearing supportive footwear and following your care plan is important to prevent recurrence.
Can I avoid surgery for a bunion?
Yes, non-surgical treatments such as wider shoes, orthotics, padding, and anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate symptoms. Surgery is only recommended if conservative care no longer provides relief.
Will I be able to wear normal shoes again?
Yes, most patients return to wearing normal shoes after recovery. Your surgeon will advise when it’s safe to resume wearing regular footwear, typically within a few months.
Schedule an appointment
If bunion pain is keeping you from the activities you love, surgery may be the right solution.
Schedule a consultation with Iowa Ortho’s foot and ankle specialists today.