A bunion, known medically as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. This occurs when some of the bones in the front part of your foot are out of place, the tip of your big toe being pulled toward the smaller toes, forcing the joint at the base of your big toe to stick out. This may cause the joint to become swollen and painful, so wearing shoes and walking comfortably may become difficult. A bunionectomy is an operation in which a surgeon removes a bunion and realigns the bones of the big toe.
Types of Bunionectomy
There are many types of procedures for bunionectomy, designed around the severity and specifics of the bunion deformity. Here are some common kinds:
- Chevron Bunionectomy: This popular procedure, also an Scottsdale bunionectomy, reshapes the bone in a V-shaped cut to move the bone back into alignment. It is usually performed for mild to moderate bunion deformities. The chevron bunionectomy in Scottsdale is popular because it is an effective form of treatment with relatively short recovery times.
- Bunionplasty: A cosmetic bunion surgery where the focus is not only on correction of the bunion but also on minimal scarring left on the foot. So, if you are wondering about “bunionplasty near me,” you should search for a surgeon who can balance both these aspects—function and aesthetics.
- Lapidus Bunionectomy: The procedure for this curvature is to fuse the bones that are located at the center of the foot. It is usually performed to offer a solution in case there is a serious problem with bunions and also to prevent any occurrence of such a condition. It is extremely invasive compared to the other types of bunionectomy, with longer recovery periods afterward.
Finding the Top Surgeon
When one seeks to have bunion surgery, one will want nothing less than the best surgeons who can do the job. One need only do a quick internet search for “bunion surgery near me” or “best bunion surgeons near me” to ensure one finds competent professionals close to their area. The Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona is one such facility that offers first-rate treatment from reputed, experienced bunion surgeons, specializing in a wide range of bunionectomy treatments.
The Process: What to Look Forward to
A bunionectomy is usually performed under local anesthesia—though general anesthesia can also be an option because of the extensiveness of the surgery. An outline of the usual practice is as follows:
- Preparing: The surgical site is cleaned and prepped by draping. You are given anesthesia to prevent pain during surgery.
- Incision: An incision is made over the bunion to allow the surgeon to see the joint and bones that will have to be operated on.
- Bone Realignment: The surgeon removes the bunion and realigns the bones in the big toe, depending on which bunionectomy surgery you had. For a chevron bunionectomy, the bone is cut into a V shape and shifted back into the proper position.
- Fixation: The bones are fixed with screws, pins, or – in some cases – even plates so they will stay in proper alignment while they’re healing. They may put on a splint or cast in some cases.
- Closing the Incision: It is then sutured followed by sterile dressing.
Bunionectomy Recovery
This entirely varies from surgery and the general condition of the patient. Here is a general guideline:
- Immediate Post-Op: Pain and swelling experienced for can be taken care of by the medications prescribed by the surgeon. Swelling can be reduced by keeping the foot elevated or by applying ice.
- First Few Weeks: You will probably not need to wear a surgical shoe or boot for foot protection and proper alignment beyond this period. At the next visit, you should follow your surgeon’s restrictions on weight bearing and when you should be out of the shoe or boot.
- Physical Therapy: Therapy for improved mobility and strength to the foot may be recommended for a successful recovery from the bunionectomy.
- Full recovery: The full recovery would require several months. Swelling may last for almost six months, and the benefits of surgery would not be fully appreciated by a patient after one year.
Preventive Measures from Bunionectomy Scars
Many patients worry about scars after the bunionectomy. Some ways to prevent scars are as follows:
- Follow Post-Op Instructions: Your post-operative care instructions from your surgeon should be strictly followed. This includes keeping the incision clean and dry and avoiding any activities that may put stress on the surgical site.
- Use Scar Treatments: When the incision has healed, applications of scar creams or silicone sheets can be used. This modality has shown some success when these treatments are applied regularly over months.
- Sun is the Enemy: Never let the surgical area get direct sun, afterward, as UV radiation will make scars darker and more evident. If the area is to be exposed to the sun, use sunscreen.
Why The Arizona Foot and Ankle Center?
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we pride ourselves on offering complete care for all types of conditions, whether foot or ankle including bunions. Our experienced team of surgeons is committed to providing optimum care and will be sure to afford you a perfect outcome from your bunionectomy.
Expertise: If it were to be mentioned that our surgeons are very highly skilled and experienced with variant practices of bunionectomy, whether it is Chevron bunionectomy or Bunionplasty techniques, we maintain hands-on training with the latest advances in foot and ankle surgery to provide you with your best options for treatment.
Individualized Care: We understand that no two patients are the same. We tailor our care to your specific needs and desired goals. It does not matter if you are more concerned with the functional outcome or the cosmesis of your feet; we have the experience to assist you.
Top Quality Facility: We have a state-of-the-art facility that is well-equipped and promotes high standards of technology in the diagnosis and treatment of all patients. Advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques are applied. We have all that it takes to accord you excellent care.
Conclusion
A bunionectomy can offer very marked relief from the pain and discomfort that a bunion can present. This surgery will be done by removing the bunion and realigning the bones of the big toe to restore your mobility and quality of life. Look no further than the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona if you are considering bunion surgery. With our top board-certified doctors and individual care, we are dedicated to getting you the best result possible.
Whether you’re searching for “bunion surgery near me,” “Bunionplasty near me,” or “chevron Scottsdale,” we are here to give the topmost care. Do not let bunion pain slow you down. Contact us now for your consultation, and let’s take that first step toward freedom from pain.
For further details or to book your appointment, call us at +1 480.342.9999. At Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, you have a partner in assured foot and ankle care.
