A bunion is more than just a bump on the side of your foot—it’s a painful condition that can make walking, exercising, or even wearing shoes uncomfortable. If you’ve ever wondered what does a bunion look like or what does bunion pain feel like, you’re not alone. Many people in Peachtree City, GA, struggle with bunions and search for lasting relief.
When conservative treatments like padding, shoe changes, or orthotics no longer ease the pain, surgery may be the best solution. But with several options available—including traditional bunion surgery, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and newer techniques like Lapiplasty®—patients often want to know which approach is right for them.
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Understanding Bunion Surgery
Not all bunions require surgery. In many cases, conservative treatments such as shoe modifications, padding, or custom orthotics can ease discomfort. However, when these options no longer provide relief, bunion surgery becomes an important consideration.
Patients often ask, “Is bunion surgery worth it?” The answer depends on your individual situation. Surgery is typically recommended when bunion pain interferes with daily activities, when walking becomes difficult, or when the deformity continues to worsen. The goal of surgery is not just to remove the bump but to correct the underlying misalignment of the bones, helping to restore proper foot function and reduce the risk of recurrence.
By understanding the purpose and benefits of bunion surgery, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right step toward lasting relief.
Types of Bunion Surgery
If bunion pain keeps you from daily activities, surgery may be the best solution. The right procedure depends on the severity of the deformity and your lifestyle. Below are the main types of bunion surgery available in Peachtree City, GA.
Traditional Bunion Surgery
In traditional bunion surgery, the surgeon makes an incision on the side of the foot. The bone is cut, realigned, and secured with screws or pins. This method not only removes the bump but also corrects the underlying bone alignment.
Doctors often recommend traditional surgery for moderate to severe bunions or cases with joint damage. Recovery is longer than newer options, but this method remains a reliable way to restore foot function and relieve pain.
Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery
Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses very small incisions. Special tools allow surgeons to correct the bunion with less disruption to surrounding tissues. Patients usually notice less swelling, less scarring, and a faster recovery compared to traditional methods.
This option appeals to those who want a shorter downtime and minimal scarring. However, it’s not suitable for every type of bunion. A podiatrist will decide if this technique is right for you.
New Bunion Surgery: Lapiplasty®
The Lapiplasty® procedure is often called the “new bunion surgery.” Unlike traditional surgery, it corrects the problem in three dimensions. Surgeons realign the unstable joint at the root of the bunion and secure it with titanium plates.
This approach reduces the risk of recurrence, provides long-term stability, and often allows patients to return to normal shoes sooner. For many, Lapiplasty® offers a more modern and predictable solution.
Bunion Surgery Recovery Time
Every patient heals differently, but knowing what to expect makes recovery less stressful. Bunion surgery recovery time depends on the type of procedure, your health, and how closely you follow your podiatrist’s instructions.
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First 2 weeks: You’ll need to keep weight off the foot. Crutches, a scooter, or a surgical shoe may be required. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal.
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Weeks 3–6: Patients usually begin bearing more weight. Those who choose minimally invasive bunion surgery often notice faster progress than with traditional surgery.
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Months 2–3: Most people return to comfortable shoes and resume normal daily activities.
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6–12 months: Full healing continues. The foot regains strength, and long-term results become clear.
Following your recovery plan—including elevation, icing, and proper footwear—greatly improves healing. Your Peachtree City podiatrist will guide you through each stage so you can get back to walking comfortably and pain-free.
FAQs About Bunion Surgery
What does a bunion look like?
A bunion appears as a visible bump on the side of the big toe joint. The big toe often leans inward toward the other toes, which can cause redness, swelling, and irritation.
What does bunion pain feel like?
Bunion pain usually feels like an aching or burning sensation at the base of the big toe. It may worsen when wearing tight shoes or after long periods of walking or standing.
Is bunion surgery worth it?
For patients with daily pain, limited mobility, or worsening deformity, bunion surgery is often worth it. Surgery not only relieves pain but also corrects the underlying bone misalignment, improving long-term function and comfort.
What is the recovery time for bunion surgery?
Bunion surgery recovery time varies by procedure. Many patients can bear some weight within 2–6 weeks. Most return to regular shoes in 2–3 months. Full healing may take 6–12 months.
Which is better: minimally invasive bunion surgery or Lapiplasty®?
Both options offer excellent results. Minimally invasive bunion surgery is ideal for smaller bunions and patients who want less scarring and quicker recovery. Lapiplasty® provides advanced 3D correction and reduces the chance of recurrence, making it a great choice for more complex or severe bunions.
Schedule a Consultation in Peachtree City, GA
If you’re struggling with bunion pain, don’t wait until it limits your daily life. The foot and ankle specialists at Ankle & Foot Centers of America in Peachtree City, GA provide expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options, including traditional bunion surgery, minimally invasive procedures, and the latest Lapiplasty® technique.
Our team will carefully evaluate your condition, explain your treatment choices, and create a personalized plan to help you walk comfortably again.
Call us today at 770-487-6716 or conveniently schedule your appointment online.
