Bunions are more than just a cosmetic concern—they can cause chronic pain, inflammation, and difficulty with everyday activities like walking or wearing shoes. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, bunion surgery may be the best option. At Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle in Denver, CO, patients receive personalized care and expert surgical treatment to correct bunions and restore foot function.
Understanding Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint shifts out of alignment. Over time, this misalignment can worsen, pushing the toe toward the others and creating pain, swelling, and joint stiffness.
While proper footwear, orthotics, and padding can help manage early symptoms, bunion surgery—also called a bunionectomy—is often recommended when:
- Pain interferes with walking or daily life
- Conservative methods fail to provide relief
- The deformity progresses or worsens
Before Surgery: Consultation and Planning
At Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle, the process begins with a thorough evaluation by a podiatric surgeon. This includes a physical exam, X-rays, and a discussion of your symptoms and lifestyle.
During your pre-surgical visit, the doctor will:
- Explain the type of surgery needed based on the severity and structure of your bunion
- Discuss anesthesia options and medical history
- Provide detailed pre-operative instructions
- Review recovery expectations and timelines
Patients are typically advised to stop certain medications, arrange transportation for surgery day, and plan for assistance at home during initial recovery.
During the Procedure
Bunion surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. There are several surgical techniques, including:
- Osteotomy – realigning the bones by making small cuts and repositioning them
- Exostectomy – removing the bunion bump without realigning the joint (less common)
- Arthrodesis – fusing the joint in severe cases
The choice of procedure depends on the degree of deformity and the patient’s overall foot health. Surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
After Surgery: Recovery and Follow-Up
Following surgery, the foot is bandaged and may be placed in a surgical shoe or boot. Crutches or a walker may be needed initially to avoid putting weight on the foot.
Patients can expect:
- Swelling and soreness for several weeks
- Stitches removed about 10–14 days post-op
- Gradual return to normal footwear within 6 to 8 weeks
- Full recovery ranging from 3 to 6 months, depending on the procedure
Physical therapy or home exercises may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.
Long-Term Relief Starts Here
Bunion surgery can significantly improve comfort, foot alignment, and quality of life. At Cherry Creek Foot and Ankle, the team provides comprehensive care—from diagnosis through recovery—to help patients in Denver, CO walk with ease and confidence again.
To schedule a consultation or learn more about bunion surgery, call (303) 355-1695 and take your first step toward pain-free living.
