Bunion correction

Bunion correction surgery, also known as bunionectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to correct a bunion deformity in the foot. A bunion (hallux valgus) forms due to a misalignment of the big toe and often looks like a bony bump on the joint at the base of the big toe. Over time, bunions can progress and grow larger, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, and even deformity.

Bunions are a common foot problem, and Penn Medicine foot and ankle orthopaedic specialists are highly experienced in treating them. If you have a bunion, our orthopaedic team will work with you to see if nonsurgical approaches can be effective in treating pain and discomfort. Bunion correction surgery, also known as a bunionectomy or bunion removal, may be recommended for more severe or complex cases.

Every bunion surgery is different depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether your bunion has progressed to a deformity. Your doctor will discuss the details of the recommended surgical approach and answer any questions you have.

When nonsurgical approaches don’t reduce the pain caused by your bunion, you may be a candidate for bunion surgery, especially if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Significant big toe pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness
• Difficulty walking
• Pain from certain types of shoes or difficulty finding shoes that fit properly
• Decreased movement in the big toe

Bunion surgery is a personal choice. You and your physician will discuss your goals for the surgery, risk factors, and any other lifestyle factors that need to be considered before making the decision to move forward with surgery. Your surgeon will discuss whether you are a candidate for minimally invasive surgery or a conventional bunionectomy.

Bunion removal is an outpatient procedure. Leading up to the surgery, you’ll have a medical exam and may need blood tests, imaging tests, and an EKG to be sure you are ready for the procedure. Consult with your doctor about any medication restrictions or fasting required prior to surgery.

On the day of the surgery, you’ll receive local anesthesia, so you’ll be pain-free during the procedure. You’ll be awake during surgery to help you recover more quickly, have a lower risk of side effects and complications, and avoid the need for an intravenous (IV) line.

Your surgeon will make an incision near the big toe joint and remove pieces of the bone while straightening out the toe joint. The bone is then set in a position that properly aligns the big toe. Hardware such as pins, screws or plates may be used to hold the toe in place. In patients with arthritis, bone fusion may be performed to remove the arthritic joint and damaged cartilage.

The length of surgery varies depending on its complexity. Generally, surgery lasts less than an hour.

Bunion correction is considered safe and can significantly reduce the pain and discomfort associated with bunions. Like most surgeries, there are some risks that may include:

• Infection
• Swelling, stiffness, numbness, or nerve damage
• Residual pain that does not resolve
• A bunion that returns

Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the risks of bunion surgery.

Penn Medicine’s orthopaedic providers are experts in treating bunions—whether through conservative methods or surgery. Our multidisciplinary team includes orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, and physiatry specialists who work with you to assess your situation and create a treatment plan to reduce your painful symptoms.

We offer many options for bunion care and take a “whole person” approach, using a shared decision-making process with you. This helps us stay focused on the best possible outcome. Bunion treatments are available throughout the southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey regions, offering exceptional care close to home.