When you decide to have bunion surgery, you will probably have plenty of questions – how does the procedure work, and what do you do after the surgery? One of the main concerns of patients is this – how to shower after bunion surgery? If you want to learn all about post-op care, you’re in the right place.
How to Prepare Your Home Before the Bunion Surgery?
Minimally invasive bunion surgery is an outpatient procedure, which means you will go home the same day after the surgery. That’s why you need to prepare your home before the procedure. Make sure your family is around to help you out – you will need someone to assist you with tasks for the first couple of weeks. If you live alone, ask someone close to you if they would be willing to help.
It’s also helpful to prepare food for the first week in advance. Make sure you have a few meals in the freezer, and stock on some delicious snacks. Cooking will be the last thing on your mind during the recovery period – you’ll just want to rest and sleep after the surgery.
Set up the recovery area – choose if it will be your bed or the couch, and then arrange items you’ll need on a small table next to it. It’s best to stick to the downstairs area of your home – and don’t forget to bring everything you’ll need downstairs as well unless you’re sure there will always be someone at home with you to run up the stairs and bring you whatever you need.
How to Shower After Bunion Surgery?
Personal hygiene might be a challenge after the procedure for one simple reason. Your surgeon will apply a dressing on the incision site, which you can’t get wet. You might also require a special surgical shoe that will protect your foot. So, you have to figure out how to take a shower after bunion surgery without getting your foot wet. This might sound complicated, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is the right equipment.
What Equipment Can Help You Shower Safely?
Since you have to keep your foot dry, it might be a great idea to get a shower stool. This way, you can sit down in the shower and place your foot on the side of the tub. It will make the process much easier – you wouldn’t have to worry about balance.
How to Keep Stitches Dry?
There is an excellent little trick that will help you keep the stitches completely dry while in the shower. It’s called a cast protector. Even though you won’t be wearing a cast, the basic idea is the same – you will put the cast protector over your foot. It should reach just below the knee, and it should make a tight seal that will prevent water from getting in.
Consult Your Surgeon in Miami and Ask For Showering Tips
If you have any questions about post-op care of the foot or want to know more about bunion surgeries, you can visit us at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic and talk to our surgeon. Our skilled and experienced doctor is ready to help you – contact us to book your free consultation. You can call our office or fill out an inquiry form on our website – we’re waiting for you!
FAQ
When Can I Stand in the Shower After Bunion Surgery?
It’s recommended for patients to sit in the shower for the first three to four weeks after surgery, especially if they have balance problems.
How Do I Shower After Foot Surgery?
Since the incision site shouldn’t get wet, it’s best to shower with the foot on the side of the tub. Be careful not to get any water on the stitches.
How Long After Bunion Surgery Can I Get My Foot Wet?
After two weeks, your doctor will remove the sutures and apply special band-aids you should keep on for a couple of days. This is when you can get your foot wet while showering, but be sure to avoid soaking it for prolonged periods.
How Should I Sleep After Bunion Surgery?
One change you should make to your sleeping habits is using a pillow to elevate the foot that was operated on. This should help keep the swelling down and fasten the recovery.