If you are already asking this question then you have already have experimented with non surgery bunion treatments like bunion pads, bunion splints or perhaps even orthotic inserts or orthopedic shoes.  However bunion surgery may be required when all else has failed.

It is important to remember that while modern medicine offers a safe procedure, is does not guarantee success.  Whilst 90% of all patients who undergo bunion surgery say they are satisfied with the improvement, this leaves 10% who were no better off before they went under the knife.

Before any surgery it will be normal for your physician to go over your medical history, and for you to have a physical examination.  Bunion surgery normally takes places under a local anesthetic, but occasionally spinal or general anesthesia will be used, so it is important that you are physically fit for this.

Your foot will be x-rayed to clearly show the surgeon your problem and allow him to evaluate fully which type of procedure will help solve your problem.  The procedure is normally done on an out-patient basis, and you will be home on the same day.

So what can you expect after bunion surgery? 

Well most patients experience a dramatic reduction in foot pain, and a noticeable realignment of their big toe with their foot.  It will allow you to wear smaller and or narrower shoes, but it is important to remember to always wear correctly fitting shoes to avoid future problems. 

Almost as important as the surgery procedure, is how you spend your bunion surgery recovery time.  Listen to your orthopedic surgeon, follow his advice and make regular checkups unit your foot heals as bandages and foot supports will need to be checked.  Your foot will need dressings and a brace for approximately six to eight weeks. 

Your foot will not be able to bear any weight initially and any walking should be restricted to a minimum in the following weeks.  Keep the foot elevated as much as possible and ice packs will help in keeping the swelling down, and you may find that shoes just don’t fit for a day or two. And although walking may be restricted, there is a range of motion exercises that will help strengthen your ankle and foot muscles.