Bunion Surgery

Hallux valgus, more commonly known as a bunion, is a large, protruding bump on the side of the big toe. Bunions can cause swelling, soreness, and inflammation, although not all bunions are painful. A bunion is removed surgically, either with a bunionectomy to smooth the bone and realign the muscles and ligaments, or via the MICA (minimally invasive chevron akin) procedure, a two-phase bunion surgery designed to correct a mild-to-moderate hallux valgus and ease bunion pain. The fellowship-trained surgeons at Surgical Solutions Network perform private surgery, including these safe, effective bunion surgeries, in Canada to realign the bones, eliminate the bump, and create a straight big toe.

Bunion Surgery With Surgical Solutions Network

Patients across Canada choose Surgical Solutions Network’s private medical clinics for bunion surgery. Our surgeons have extensive experience performing this and other foot, ankle, and toe procedures. Our patient-centred philosophy means we strive to provide exceptional pre- and post-operative care and a compassionate, caring, and rewarding experience. You don’t have to live with chronic pain and discomfort while waiting for bunion surgery. Discover options for private healthcare in Canada and get quicker access to bunion surgery. Surgical Solutions is a network of private medical clinics across Canada, with centres in Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Calgary.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bunion?

Bunion symptoms can include the following:

• A bump that bulges on the outside of the base of the big toe
• Swelling, redness, or soreness around the big toe joint
• Corns or calluses where the big toe overlaps the second toe
• Restricted and painful movement of the big toe
• Skin thickening at the base of the big toe

How Is a Bunionectomy Performed?

Once your surgeon determines you’re a good candidate for bunion surgery, he may recommend a bunionectomy. This surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia as an outpatient surgery. During the surgery, your surgeon created an incision in the foot near the big toe. He then cuts or shaves down the excess bone and repositions the bones of the big toe using specially-designed plates and small screws to straighten the toe. If needed, he will also realign the tendons or ligaments around the big toe to help reshape the toe. The incision is then closed and bandaged.

How Is MICA Bunion Surgery Performed?

If your surgeon has determined that your bunion needs surgical intervention, the MICA surgical option may be for you. This unique procedure was designed for precise bunion correction surgery. It allows the surgeon to fix the bone accurately and correct the soft tissue issue for potentially better results than with other methods. With the surgeon’s approval, there is even the possibility of weight-bearing shortly after surgery.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision at the base of the big toe, then cuts the bones using a small (2mm) drill under X-ray guidance. Next, the surgeon realigns the metatarsal bone and removes any excess tissue or bony growths. The surgeon then realigns the bone using small specially designed screws for stabilization to ensure the bones remain in the correct position while they heal. Once the correction is complete, the surgeon closes the incision and bandages the foot.

How Long Is Recovery From Bunion Surgery?

While individual results may vary, you should be able to wear comfortable and supportive shoes within 4 to 6 weeks after your procedure. You will be limited in movements for the first 2 weeks, but most people with sedentary jobs can return after that. For active, physically demanding occupations, 6 weeks may be required. Driving will be limited until your surgeon advises it is safe to do so.

What Is Recovery Like After Bunion Surgery?

You will be provided with the specialty post-surgical cast boot, post-op medication prescription, and a cold therapy machine to aid in pain relief and manage swelling while you heal. Most patients can immediately put gentle weight on the affected foot if they wear the protective boot. Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may need to use crutches for a few days or stay off the foot for 2 to 3 weeks. Each patient is different, so your surgeon will tell you the best way to protect your foot and enjoy a fast complete recovery.

It is not uncommon to have swelling for 4 to 6 months post-surgery. Physiotherapy or occupational therapy after 6 weeks post-op may assist in your recovery by helping to restore a normal gait and massage and mobilization of the joints to reduce swelling. Typically, patients must postpone exercise until at least 2 months post-op and avoid impact exercise until 4 months post-op.

Is Bunion Surgery Worth Having?

The vast majority of patients who undergo bunion surgery or MICA say they are extremely happy with the procedure. While individual results may vary, this is a safe, minimally invasive, and highly effective surgical procedure. Bunion surgery relieves the pain, swelling, and misalignment of the metatarsal bone and joint. You should be able to wear comfortable and supportive shoes approximately 1 to 2 weeks after your procedure.

Bunion Surgery FAQ

Next Steps: Book Your Bunion Surgery Consultation

If you are ready to discuss your bunion surgery needs with the fellowship-trained surgeons at Surgical Solutions Network’s private medical clinics, contact us using our online form to request a consultation today. During your consultation, your patient care adviser will discuss:

• Your medical history
• Pre and post-operative care
• Potential risks and complications