When Do Bunions Require Surgery?

A bunion is a joint foot deformity where your big toe shifts inward toward the other toes, creating a large lump. This lump isn’t a tumor, though. It’s your big toe joint jutting out.

Bunions can develop from genetics, specific foot shapes, tight footwear, or stress on your foot, and unfortunately, they can get worse over time. Not only can bunions cause you to lose mobility in your big toe, but you might also develop corns and calluses when your toes rub together.

While some people find relief through nonsurgical methods like supportive shoes, orthotics, or pain relievers, there are cases when bunion surgery becomes necessary.

As a multispecialty practice with two podiatrists on our team — Nathaniel Alabi, DPM,  and Parth Dixit, DPM — the Texas Heart and Vein Multispeciality Group team excels at diagnosing and treating bunions. 

Here are the signs it’s time to consider surgery.

Signs that you might need bunion surgery

Bunion surgery is typically recommended when:

You have persistent pain

If your bunion pain is persistent and affects your ability to walk, stand, or engage in daily activities (like grocery shopping), surgery may be the best option. Severe bunions can make even short periods of standing painful.

You can’t move your big toe properly

Bunions can make it difficult to move your big toe properly, especially if you also have arthritis. If the joint becomes stiff or loses its range of motion, surgery may be necessary to restore movement and relieve discomfort.

The deformity is growing

Bunions tend to worsen over time, especially without treatment. A growing bunion can cause your toes to overlap, changing the shape of your foot.

In this case, surgery may help realign your toe and prevent further complications.

You’ve already tried conservative options

When wearing roomier shoes, using orthotic inserts, and physical therapy aren’t managing your pain, it may be time to consider surgery. 

Types of bunion surgery

Bunion surgery — officially called bunionectomy — can give you lasting relief when other options have failed. Several surgical options exist for bunions, and the right choice depends on your specific condition. 

Examples of bunion surgery include:

• Osteotomy to realign your joint by reshaping the bone with pins and screws 
• Exostectomy to remove the bony bump (often performed at the same time as an osteotomy)
• Lapidus to correct the bunion by fusing the joint between your first metatarsal bone and a small bone in your midfoot
• Arthrodesis to fuse the damaged joint (especially beneficial if you also have arthritis)

The good news is that you don’t have to sort through your options alone. Dr. Alabi or Dr. Dixit help you decide on the surgical approach that’s right for you.

Recovery from bunion surgery

Bunion surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, but recovery can take several weeks. Follow your post-operative instructions carefully during this time and complete any physical therapy exercises as prescribed.

While you’ll have to take some downtime after surgery, your patience will pay off in significant pain relief, improved toe alignment, and a return to comfortable walking.

To learn more about your bunion management options, call Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group in Houston, Pearland, or Kingwood, Texas, or request an appointment online.