Thinking about bunion surgery can be overwhelming. I like to help my patients at least a week before surgery so we can prepare together. It is important to think about all the factors that can influence your outcome. I have patients make a list of questions before we meet and advise them to bring a family member or friend to their pre-operative appointment.
A few suggestions to think about before surgery are:
1. Set up a general operation center, i.e the couch with everything you need
2. Think about how you will use the shower and bathroom
3. Supplements, these can be important, examples are calcium and collagen
4. Exercise plan, what can you still do?
5. Review your timeline, how long will you be down?
6. Do you have all your post-operative appointments?
7. Consider side effects of mediations, constipation/nausea
8. Make and freeze a few meals
This list is not exhaustive but it is a good place to start. The majority of your questions will be answered at your pre-operative appointment.
The Surgery itself:
Bunion surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours and is done in an outpatient setting. Our practice is set up to provide the most convenient and cost-effective approach to your bunion surgery by having a surgery center on site. The day of surgery most patients will have nothing to eat or drink 8 hours before surgery and will show up at the practice about an hour before their operation.
You will see the surgeon again and meet your anesthesia provider. Next you will be brought into the operating room and an IV will be started and you will wake up after the surgery is completed. Typically, most patients have a nerve block that will last about 24 hours. You will then have your first post-operative appointment with 4-10 days.
Recovery:
Recovery really depends on the procedure selected. All our bunion surgery patients can walk after surgery. We also help our athletes stay in shape by helping them tailor a recovery period workout. Recovery can be influenced by your diet and how well you follow the post-operative course.
If you are struggling with bunion pain we are here to help! Give us a call 425-291-8666 or make an appointment online.
