Recovery Time: Life after Your Bunion Surgery

If you have bunions on one or both of your feet, you aren’t alone. You’re in the company of such fashion-conscious stars as Victoria Beckham and Katie Holmes. You already know how the bumps bulge to the side, ache, and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Maybe you’ve already taken steps to deal with the pain conservatively, but have decided it isn’t enough. Surgery is the only option to truly deal with the misaligned bones.

If you’ve already elected to undergo surgery to correct your bunion, congratulations! That is a big, important step. Here at Gulf South Foot& Ankle, LLC we work closely with our patients to ensure your procedure goes as smoothly as possible and your recovery afterwards is quick and complication-free so you can return to your normal activities.

Recovering from a bunion procedure and returning to your activities does take time. Depending on the type of surgery and the severity of your condition, your bones and other foot structures will need significant time to heal—anywhere from six weeks to six months. During that time your foot will need to be supported and immobilized, either in a special boot or a cast. Newer techniques and technologies have made recovery easier and quicker, but your unique bunion determines how long it actually takes. You may be able to put partial weight on your foot again after a short period of time.

Our physicians will monitor your progress closely and let you know when you can safely use the foot and return to regular activities. Make sure you follow all home care instructions for cleaning and protecting the site of the surgery, and perform any physical therapy exercises you are given to help return your foot to full strength. The better care you give your feet when you start up your activities again, the more likely you are to avoid extra pain or complications. If anything does cause discomfort, contact our office right away to have it checked.

If you’re struggling with bunions or are already interested in surgery, don’t wait and allow the problem to get worse. The more complicated the bunion, the longer the recovery, so contact Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC soon for an appointment or more information. You can reach our Metairie office by calling (504)-708-4810 or If you’re struggling with bunions or are already interested in surgery, don’t wait and allow the problem to get worse. The more complicated the bunion, the longer the recovery, so contact Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC soon for an appointment or more information. You can reach our Metairie office by calling (504)-708-4810 or visiting the contact page online.