A bunion is a great toe deformity that develops following years of use of high heels and tight shoes. That results in great toe swelling and shifting towards the other toes. Bunion deformity can also occur more frequently in families.
Bunion surgery aligns the first ("big") toe and, if needed, straightens the second through fourth toes. This treats the pain of bunions and hammertoes, and is designed to prevent the condition from returning. This is an outpatient procedure and you will be able to return home the same day as the surgery. Recovery from surgery usually occurs over a 2- 3month period and may include persistent swelling and stiffness.
In addition to great toe deformity, other reasons that you may benefit from bunion surgery include:
- Severe great toe pain that limits your everyday activities, including walking and wearing reasonable shoes. You may find it hard to walk more than a few blocks (even in athletic shoes) without significant pain.
- Chronic big toe swelling that doesn't improve with rest or medications.
- Toe deformity - a drifting in of your big toe toward the small toes.