If you have recently had bunion surgery or are considering it, you may be curious if there is a risk of the bunion recurring. After going through the trouble of having surgery, it is wise to want to protect your investment and time. We hope this article will help you understand your options and what to expect after bunion surgery. If you have more questions about bunion surgery after reading this article, please call our offices to schedule an appointment. Our helpful staff can give you the information you need to be fully informed and prepared for the days ahead.
Can Bunions Come Back After Surgery?
The short answer is, yes, bunions can and sometimes do reoccur after surgery, especially if that surgery is the type where the protruding bone of the bunion has been only shaved down. Even in situations where the bones of the foot have been realigned to reduce the pain and deformity of the bunion, a person’s foot structure can cause a bunion to reform later. It may be several years before bunions appear again but it can happen.
One of the main reasons that bunions reoccur is because of genetic predisposition. Since bunions tend to be hereditary, even after surgery you may find that bunions appear in the same or new areas of your feet. Talking to your podiatrist about your concerns can help prepare you for any situations where bunions reappear.
Are There Ways to Prevent Bunions from Occurring Again?
After surgery, many podiatrists will recommend wearing a splint to help the bones learn to align correctly. This can help prevent a bunion from forming after it has been corrected. Wearing shoes that do not constrict your feet and have plenty of room in the toe box can help your feet learn to adjust properly as well.
Bunion recurrence is rare and generally happens very slowly. If you have recently had surgery and are noticing that your bunion is reforming quickly, you should contact your surgeon or podiatrist as soon as possible to discuss your options.
In very rare circumstances, there may have been a problem with the surgery as mistakes are sometimes made. However, there is no reason for a lack of trust in your podiatrist. Podiatrists are well-trained and have many years of experience before they are allowed to practice on their own. If you are unhappy with your current podiatrist or would like a second opinion, Best Foot Doctor is here to help. Give our offices a call to schedule an appointment to talk to our staff.
Read more in our blog: When to See a Bunion Surgeon
Are There Other Treatments for Bunions?
While surgery is often the best and most effective form of treatment for bunions, there are other treatment methods that can be effective for minor cases. None of these will permanently fix the condition, but they can provide relief.
- Adding padding or splints to shoes
- Wearing shoes with extra room that do not cramp the toes
- Icing the bunion
- Medications like ibuprofen can help relieve pain and inflammation
How to Find a Bunion Surgery Foot Doctor in New York City (NYC)
If you are located in the Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn boroughs and looking for a new podiatrist, Best Foot Doctor has offices in your location. Our friendly, experienced staff are here to help, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment.