A bunion is a painful foot deformity that occurs when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and misaligned. In many cases, bunions require surgical correction to relieve pain, restore proper toe alignment, and address related foot issues.

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Why Bunion Surgery Is Performed

Bunion surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments—such as orthotics, padding, or anti-inflammatory medications—fail to relieve symptoms. Common reasons for undergoing surgery include:

  • Persistent toe inflammation and swelling
  • Big toe drifting toward the smaller toes
  • Limited mobility in the toe joint
  • Severe foot pain interfering with daily activities

Although surgery cannot guarantee complete pain relief, most patients report high satisfaction with the results.

How Bunion Surgery Is Performed

There are over 100 types of bunion procedures, and surgeons often combine multiple techniques to address complex deformities. Bunion surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure and usually takes an hour or more, depending on the severity of the condition.

The surgery typically involves an incision on the side or top of the big toe joint and may include:

  • Removal of the bony bump (bunionectomy)
  • Realignment of soft tissues around the joint
  • Removal of part of the bone in the foot or toe
  • Fusion of the big toe joint or joints in the midfoot
  • Insertion of screws, plates, or wires to stabilize the joint
  • Placement of an artificial joint in severe cases

Recovery

Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the tissues involved. Some patients may need crutches or a surgical shoe, while others can walk with limited support. Full recovery may take several months to a year.