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Bunion Surgery

Bunions are bony bumps that can cause significant pain and discomfort, often disrupting daily activities. If conservative treatments like orthotics or anti-inflammatory medications haven’t provided lasting relief, bunion surgery may be the best solution.

Contact the experts at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus to explore our comprehensive care options to help you get back on your feet!

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Topic at a Glance

  • A bunion is a deformity at the base of the big toe that causes the toe to shift toward the smaller toes, creating a prominent bump that may become painful.
  • Bunion surgery may be recommended when pain and difficulty walking or wearing shoes persist despite nonsurgical treatments.
  • Surgical options include osteotomy to realign the bone, exostectomy to remove the bony bump, joint fusion, and minimally invasive bunion correction.
  • Recovery varies depending on the procedure and may involve a protective boot, restricted weight-bearing, foot elevation, and follow-up appointments.

Related Services

Our Bunion Surgery Specialist​s​​

Do I Need Surgery?

Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.

What Our Patients Say

“You were prepared regarding my foot issues before you stepped in the room! I appreciated your knowledge, explanations and graphics to show me what we can do. You gave me hope today! Thank you.” — Heidi C.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion (medically known as hallux valgus) is a visible, often painful, bony bump that develops on the outside edge of your big toe joint. The condition occurs when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, leading to a misalignment in the joint. This shift can cause the joint to stick out, creating the characteristic bump.

Over time, bunions can worsen, leading to chronic bunion pain, swelling, and inflammation. The bony enlargement can make wearing shoes uncomfortable, especially if the bump rubs against footwear, causing irritation.

Several factors contribute to bunion formation. These include:

  • Genetics: A family history of bunions can increase your risk.
  • Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can weaken the joint, making it prone to deformity.
  • Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can exacerbate bunion development.
 

While bunions are most commonly found on the big toe joint, a similar condition known as a bunionette can form on the outside of the little toe joint.

What is Bunion Surgery?

Bunion surgery (also called a bunionectomy) is an outpatient procedure aimed at correcting the deformity, relieving pain, and restoring function to the affected foot. Surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments like orthotics, physical therapy, and medication have failed to alleviate symptoms, or when the bunion significantly limits daily activities.

There are different techniques available for bunion correction, including minimally invasive bunion surgery. Your surgeon will choose the most appropriate approach based on the severity of your bunion, your foot structure, and your overall health. The primary goals of bunion reconstructive surgery are to:

  • Realign the bones, tendons, and ligaments of the big toe join
  • Reduce pain and inflammation
  • Restore proper function and allow for normal movement
  • Prevent further progression of the deformity
Feet with bunions before being corrected in Columbus, Ohio.

Surgical Procedures Available for Bunion Removal

The type of bunion surgery you need depends on the severity of your condition. After a thorough examination and imaging tests, your surgeon may recommend one of the following procedures:

Osteotomy

Osteotomy is the most common procedure for bunion correction. During this surgery, your surgeon makes small incisions in the bone near the big toe joint. The bones are then realigned using screws or pins to hold them in place, correcting the abnormal angle. This procedure effectively restores the natural alignment of your toe joint while relieving pain and discomfort.

Exostectomy

Exostectomy involves removing the bony bump without realigning the joint itself. This procedure is usually combined with an osteotomy to ensure the toe is properly repositioned. Exostectomy alone is less common and is typically reserved for cases where joint misalignment is minimal.

Great Toe Arthrodesis

For patients with severe bunions, arthritis, or significant joint damage, great toe arthrodesis may be the best option. This procedure involves fusing the bones of the big toe joint to eliminate pain and stabilize the joint. Screws, plates, or other hardware are used to hold the bones in place as they heal. While this procedure limits motion in the big toe, it provides excellent long-term pain relief and stability.

Lapidus Bunionectomy

The Lapidus bunionectomy is specifically designed for severe bunions that involve significant joint instability. This procedure corrects the bunion at the base of the first metatarsal by fusing it in the correct position. The Lapidus procedure addresses the root cause of severe bunions, making it an effective option for preventing recurrence.

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses an osteotomy or bone cut to realign the bone and remove the bunion. This is done with small incisions and small screws to help keep the bone in place. 

Would I Be an Eligible Candidate for Bunion Surgery?

Bunion surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments have not provided relief, and bunion pain is affecting your quality of life. You might be a candidate if you experience:

  • Persistent inflammation and swelling in the big toe joint that doesn’t improve with rest or medication.
  • A big toe that drifts towards the smaller toes, causing crowding and discomfort.
  • Difficulty bending or straightening your big toe due to joint stiffness.
  • Severe bunion pain that limits your ability to walk, exercise, or wear comfortable shoes.
  • Arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis resulting from a previous injury.
 

Consulting with a foot and ankle specialist is the best way to determine if bunion surgery is right for you. Your surgeon will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.

How Can I Prepare for Bunion Surgery?

Preparing for bunion surgery involves more than just understanding the procedure. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a smooth experience:

  • Discuss Your Concerns: Have an open conversation with your foot doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.
  • Medical Preparations: Your surgeon may require blood tests, diagnostic imaging, or a physical exam to assess your overall health.
  • Medication Review: Provide a detailed list of any medications you’re currently taking. You may need to stop taking certain medications before surgery.
  • Plan for Recovery: Prepare your home by arranging for meals and organizing a comfortable space where you can keep your affected foot elevated during recovery.
  • Support System: Arrange for someone to assist you with daily tasks, especially in the initial days following surgery.
 

Scheduling your surgery at a convenient time allows you to focus on healing and avoid unnecessary stress during recovery.

Bunion Surgery Procedure

Bunion surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

  1. The incision site will be cleaned and prepared.
  2. Anesthesia will be administered. This usually includes a numbing block for the foot or leg to minimize pain during and after surgery.
  3. Your surgeon will make one or more incisions along the big toe joint.
  4. Depending on your condition, bone, ligament, or tendon adjustments will be made to correct the deformity.
  5. Once the necessary corrections are completed, the surgical site will be closed, and stitches and a bandage will be applied.

Bunion Surgery Recovery Process

After surgery, most patients will need to wear a protective boot or shoe to avoid putting weight on the affected foot. Stitches are usually removed 2-3 weeks after the procedure, and follow-up visits with your podiatrist will monitor the healing process. Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed but generally takes 6 to 12 weeks.

To ensure a successful recovery, carefully follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. This includes:

  • Keeping your foot elevated as much as possible in the first few weeks to reduce swelling.
  • Using crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter to avoid putting weight on the foot.
  • Attending physical therapy sessions to regain strength and improve range of motion in the toe joint.
  • Wearing proper footwear to protect the surgical site as it heals.
 

Your surgeon may also prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort during the recovery period.

Benefits of Bunion Surgery

The primary benefits of bunion surgery include the following:

  • Pain Relief: Bunion correction directly addresses the source of your discomfort, allowing you to walk and move without pain.
  • Improved Mobility: Restoring proper alignment improves foot function, making daily activities like walking and exercise more comfortable.
  • Long-Term Results: Bunion surgeries provide lasting relief by correcting the underlying cause of the deformity.

Possible Risks Associated with Bunion Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:

  • Infection
  • Inflammation
  • Bunion recurrence (especially if proper footwear is not worn post-surgery)
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Persistent stiffness or pain
  • Nerve damage
 

Although complications are rare, they can typically be managed effectively with prompt medical attention.

Could the Bunion Come Back After Surgery?

While bunion surgery is intended to provide long-term correction, bunions can recur in some cases. Factors such as poor footwear choices, joint instability, and genetic predisposition can contribute to recurrence. However, opting for advanced procedures like the Lapidus bunionectomy significantly reduces this risk by addressing the root cause of severe bunions.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re struggling with bunion pain and live in the Greater Columbus, OH area, contact us at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center today to schedule an appointment. Our experts specialize in personalized treatment plans, including minimally invasive bunion surgery, to help relieve pain and restore your mobility.

Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM

FAQs About Bunion Surgery

Bunion surgery corrects the misalignment of the big toe joint to relieve pain and improve foot function. The procedure may involve realigning bones, removing the bony bump, or fusing a joint, depending on the severity of the deformity.

Surgery may be considered when a bunion causes persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, or difficulty walking and wearing comfortable shoes despite nonsurgical treatment. A foot and ankle specialist can determine whether surgery is appropriate.

Options include osteotomy to realign the bone, exostectomy to remove the bony bump, Lapidus bunionectomy to correct instability near the base of the first metatarsal, and joint fusion for certain severe cases. Minimally invasive techniques may also be appropriate for some patients.

Recovery depends on the procedure and how the foot heals. On average, your recovery period could take six to 12 weeks. During recovery, some patients need a protective boot or shoe, limited weight-bearing, and physical therapy.

Yes. Bunions can recur after surgery, depending on factors such as the original deformity, joint stability, and individual foot structure. Following postoperative instructions and your surgeon’s footwear recommendations can support recovery.

Our Bunion Surgery Specialist​s​

TERRENCE M. PHILBIN, DO

Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

MARK A. PRISSEL, DPM

Board Certified, Fellowship Trained Foot & Ankle Surgeon

RANDALL C. THOMAS JR., DPM

Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon

COREY J. GRIFFITH, DPM

Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon
Dr. Robert Brandao

ROBERTO A. BRANDÃO, DPM

Board Certified, Fellowship Trained Foot & Ankle Surgeon
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