Frequently Asked Questions About Bunion Surgery
There are common questions that come up during a bunion surgery consultation. If you are thinking about having bunion surgery, then this blog will give you my best answers to the most commonly asked bunion surgery questions.
Are bunions hereditary?
Bunions are most often caused by an inherited faulty mechanic structure of the foot. It is not the bunion itself that is inherited, but certain foot types that make a person prone to developing a bunion.
Do over-the-counter pads and splints really work?
Pads placed over the area may help minimize pain from a bunion. However, padding and splinting cannot reverse a deformity.
Will my bunion get worse?
Because bunions are progressive, they don’t go away, and will usually get worse over time. But not all cases are alike. Some bunions progress more rapidly than others.
Types of Bunions
Is it better to have it fixed now, or should I wait?
When the pain of a bunion interferes with daily activities, it’s time to discuss surgical options. Together we can decide if surgery is best for you.
How can I avoid surgery?
Sometimes observation of the bunion is all that’s needed. Periodic office evaluation and x-ray examination can determine if your deformity is advancing, thereby reducing your chance of irreversible damage to the joint. In many other cases, however, some type of treatment is needed, such as changes in shoes, padding, activity modifications, pain medications, icing, injection therapy, and orthotic devices.
When your bunion interferes with daily activities, it’s time to discuss surgical options. Together we can decide if surgery is best for you.
Will my insurance company pay for the surgery?
Bunions are a medical condition and therefore surgery is generally covered by most health insurance plans so long as it is associated with pain and functional limitations. Surgery for the sole purpose of making the foot look better is considered cosmetic and generally excluded.
Is the surgery painful?
The amount of pain experienced after surgery is different from one person to the next. Most patients will experience discomfort for three to five days. If you closely follow your foot and ankle surgeon’s instructions, you can help minimize pain and swelling after your surgery.
What type of anesthesia is involved?
Most bunion surgeries involve local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. That means your foot will be numb and you will be given medications to relax you during the procedure.
How long does it take to recover from surgery?
The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed. During your consultation, I will provide you with detailed information about your recovery.
How soon can I get back to regular activities after surgery?
The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed. Most people have returned to full activity within three months after surgery.
Can the bunion come back?
Yes, there is a risk for recurrence in some cases. Patients can help prevent this by following their doctor’s instructions to wear arch supports or orthotics in their shoe.
If screws or plates are implanted in my foot to correct my bunion, will they set off metal detectors?
Not usually. It can depend on the device chosen for your procedure, as well as how sensitive the metal detectors are.
If you think you have a bunion and want to learn more about the treatment that is best for you, give us a call at 402-315-4406 or go online to https://momentumfootandankle.com/schedule to schedule your appointment.
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