Click here to read our Covid policy.

Minimally-Invasive Bunion Surgery: All Your Questions Answered

Minimally-Invasive Bunion Surgery: All Your Questions Answered

Bunions are notorious for causing a bony bump at the base of your big toe. While this may cause potential cosmetic concerns (especially if the bump is large), the reality is bunions can be quite painful. But there’s good news: Surgery can help correct the bump, relieve your pain, and enhance the appearance of your foot. 

While an effective treatment, the thought of surgery may have you imagining a long recovery with months spent off your feet. 

Our team of specialists here at Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC, in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, utilizes cutting-edge surgical techniques, so you won’t have to choose between debilitating bunion pain or a long recovery period. With minimally invasive techniques, we can help you get back on your feet faster than with traditional surgery. 

While we take time to answer all of your questions during your pre-op appointment, you can get a general idea of the process here.

Do I have to have surgery? 

Bunions are painful, swollen bumps, but they aren’t tumors. Rather, when your big toe points toward the rest of your toes, it forces your joint to jut out. As this deformity worsens, your big toe can turn inward and even overlap your second toe. 

Bunions affect the structure of your entire foot and can cause pain, swelling, redness, and calluses. Eventually, bunions can limit the mobility and function of your big toe. 

In milder cases, our team may recommend conservative treatments, such as orthotics and injections. However, if your bunion is severe, surgery may be the best course of action to eliminate your pain and restore the functionality of your toe. 

What happens during bunion surgery?

Bunion surgery is designed to correct the structures in your feet by removing the enlarged portion of your bone, realigning your bone, and correcting the position of any affected tendons and ligaments. In traditional open surgery, our surgeons access your bone through an incision. 

During minimally invasive surgery, our surgeons utilize specialized techniques with the use of tiny surgical tools. Rather than making large incisions, our team simply inserts these tools through micro incisions before correcting your deformity. 

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery isn’t right for everyone, but when it is right for you, there are many advantages to enjoy, including: 

This means your recovery is easier, you experience less pain and bleeding post-op, and you’re more likely to get back on your feet sooner. 

Where do I go for bunion surgery?

Minimally invasive bunion surgery takes place in our in-office outpatient surgical center located at 133 East 54th Street. This facility allows you to receive the procedure you need in a comfortable setting. Board-certified anesthesiologists are on staff and work alongside our team of board-certified podiatric surgeons. 

As the first practice in New York City to earn this designation of outpatient office-based surgical center utilizing intravenous anesthesia, you can count on us to adhere to the highest level of patient care and safety.

What happens after bunion surgery?

After your surgery is complete, our team monitors you for a few hours. Most people return home the same day, although you will need someone to drive you home. After surgery, you can expect some pain and swelling, both of which are common. However, pain and swelling are usually less intense with minimally invasive techniques. 

Our team provides specific guidance for you regarding pain medication, wound care, and any activity limitations you may have. 

Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about minimally invasive bunion surgery. Call one of our two convenient New York City locations or book an appointment online today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Little-Known Causes of Chronic Heel Pain

Little-Known Causes of Chronic Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is one of the main causes of chronic heel pain, and while it’s the most well-known, it’s not the only cause. Read on to learn about eight of the lesser-known causes of chronic heel pain and how we can help you find relief.
Broken Foot Surgery: What to Expect During and After

Broken Foot Surgery: What to Expect During and After

Foot fractures refer to a broken bone in any part of your foot, and while surgery isn’t always required to mend a broken bone, it can be the right path forward in some cases. Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your surgery.

Will I Always Have Gout?

If you have gout, an inflammatory type of arthritis, you know that gout attacks hurt. After one episode, you may be asking yourself if you’ll be stuck with gout forever. Read on to learn if gout is chronic and how you can prevent gout attacks.