Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery Lets You Get Back on Your Feet Sooner


Bunion surgery or bunionectomy in general is a procedure to correct the alignment of the big toe joint. This typically involves an incision at the side of the big toe joint, then the bone is cut across to line up the joint. In some cases, some bone is removed especially if the bunion is too large. Then the bone is pinned in place using metal scews, plates, wires, or pins. Post-operative pain, recovery times, aesthetics, and the whole outcome all depends on the surgical technique used.



Which Surgical Technique is best for Bunions?

There are a lot of things to consider before bunion surgery. Basically, a bunion is a bump at the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions form due to improper footwear, especially tight pointy high heels. These shoes compress the foot leading to the deviation of the joint. A bunion is a progressive condition; the bump will slowly grow over time and the associated pain will get worse as well. Because of this, a lot of people think that bunions form due to new bone growth. The fact is, a bunion is just a dispaced joint, the bump that we see is actually the head of the first metatarsal bone. Some surgical techniques, especially traditional bunion surgery require removal of some of the joint bone which is unnecessary since this is still natural bone that is just been displaced. Also, a very long incision is required to allow a lot of room for bone manipulation and cutting. This results to very long painful recovery and an ugly scar after surgery.


Minimally invasive Bunion Surgery

With minimally invasive bunion surgery, no bone is removed. First, a very small incision is made, then the physician breaks the bone with a hammer and special chisel, this allows for faster bone healing. Cutting with a bone saw produces heat and could delay bone healing and adhesion. Then the joints and toes are aligned and pinned in place.


Recovery with Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Since the surgery involves very little manipulation, pain and swelling is very minimal. Patients can walk on the balls of their feet a day after surgery; a special boot can protect and assist for more ambulation. The pin is removed after 8 weeks, as this is the usual time bone heals. Aesthetically, the surgical incision is so small, it is barely visible.

For more information on Lam modified no scar bunion surgery, call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT)




Call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT)

for more information on scarless bunion surgery

or sign up for our Newsletter