Bunion correction surgery

Need to know

• What happens during bunion correction surgery? icon plus

  Your surgeon will usually take an X-ray to determine the extent of your bunion and decide on the best procedure for you. Surgery may be done under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the complexity of your procedure. Your surgeon will make sure you're as comfortable as possible for your operation.

  During the procedure, the bony lump is removed and any deformity of the big toe joint is corrected. Loose ligaments can be tightened to realign your toe. Pins or screws are used to hold the toe in the correct position as it heals. The entire operation usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.

• How to prepare for surgery icon plus

  Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. If you're having general anaesthetic​, your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

• Post surgery recovery icon plus

  You should be able to return home the same day as your surgery, although sometimes you may need to be cared for in hospital overnight. You may be in a plaster cast or just a bandage after your surgery.

  You should be able to walk immediately, wearing lightweight over-shoes (a type of rubber boot usually slipped on top of shoes). You'll need to wear these for two weeks, after which you can switch to loose sandals or trainers, getting back to normal shoes at around six weeks.

  Your consultant might recommend physiotherapy to help you recover. They will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise.