Bunion Surgery Aftercare: Your Complete Guide to an Optimal Recovery

About 350,000 people in the United States undergo bunion surgery each year. The procedure, which removes a bunion and realigns the big toe joint, is often performed using a minimally invasive approach. However, for healing to proceed smoothly, adhering to a strict recovery plan is essential. 

If you’re preparing to undergo bunion surgery, it’s normal to wonder what to expect. Angelo Morreale, DPM at The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, has prepared this guide of what to expect immediately after surgery, post-surgery movement guidelines, and how to keep your surgical wounds clean. 

Immediate post-surgery care

Bunion surgery is an outpatient procedure, so you won’t have to stay in the hospital. This is convenient, but it means you’ll need to closely follow your surgeon’s instructions.

After surgery, someone will need to drive you home. It takes several hours for the anesthesia to wear off, and your foot will be placed in a boot. Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Get plenty of rest and elevate your foot whenever possible to reduce swelling and promote healing. 

Take any medications as prescribed and wear your boot or special shoe as instructed. Following these guidelines can help relieve pain and prevent complications.

Mobility and activity guidelines

After bunion surgery, you should avoid putting weight on the affected foot for at least two weeks, and sometimes longer, depending on healing. This can be frustrating, but it’s essential to prevent injury. Dr. Morreale typically prescribes crutches or another mobility device, such as a walker, so you can still get around your home comfortably.

Around two weeks after bunion correction surgery, most people transition to a walking boot. During this stage, you can place some weight on your foot — but don’t overdo it. Extended periods of walking, standing, or exercise can lead to pain and set back your recovery. 

Be patient, follow Dr. Morreale’s instructions, and if you experience any pain during movement, get off your feet immediately.

Foot care and proper hygiene

Bunion surgery involves making several incisions near your big toe joint. These incisions are usually small, but often require stitches and dressings. 

Keep your bandages dry and don’t change them outside of your prescribed schedule (unless they accidentally get wet). Removing them too soon or getting them wet can increase the risk of infection and other complications.

Inspect your feet daily for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, and avoid wearing overly tight socks or shoes. If something appears off or you’re concerned about an infection, contact Dr. Morreale right away. 

Long-term recovery and prevention

Once the initial healing stage is finished, Dr. Morreale refers you for physical therapy (PT). PT uses stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual therapies, like massage, to promote healing and support your recovery. It also teaches you how to walk and exercise safely, helping reduce the risk of bunion recurrence. 

At this stage, you can usually return to normal shoes, but you’ll still need to avoid high heels and tight footwear that crowd the toes to help maintain proper toe joint alignment. 

Learn more about the benefits of bunion surgery today

Bunions can cause foot pain that makes it difficult to stand or walk and keeps you from your favorite activities. If you’ve tried conservative care without an improvement in your symptoms, bunion surgery may be the next best treatment option. 

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute by calling your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.