Recovery after Bunionectomy: A Comprehensive Guide

Bunions are foot deformities, also known as a hallux valgus deformity. It can be a painful condition where you have a bony growth right below the base of your big toe. In most of these cases, you need surgery to remove the bunion. In this article we will outline the typical recovery following bunion surgery.

Recovery during the first week after surgery

During this period it is important to rest, elevating your feet, and manage the pain with pain medication provided. It's recommended to elevate your leg as much as possible to promote healing. You can also use extra cushions and pillows for foot elevation.

Recovery during the second week after surgery

You need to make sure you are keeping the wound dry and clean. Continue to keep the foot elevated, as that will lower the swelling. Listen to all the instructions that the surgeon has provided you with on how to gradually mobilise. Along with medicines and elevation, you can use ice packs to alleviate the pain by helping reduce the swelling.

Recovery during the second to sixth weeks after surgery

In this phase, you gradually start increasing your activity levels. However, make sure that you are doing so incrementally. It will take until six - eight weeks following surgery before you can carry out high impact activities. Make sure to contact your surgeon if pain levels increase, this may mean that you are doing too much.