Tailor bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a common foot issue. It’s a bony protrusion of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. If you decide to get it removed surgically, you should learn about the possible tailor bunion surgery complications.
Infection Is One of the Most Common Tailor Bunion Surgery Complications
Even though the success rate of tailor bunion surgery is quite high and complications rarely occur, it’s still important to get familiar with the risks of this procedure. Just like any surgery, this one comes with the possibility of a post-op infection of the surgical site.
It happens in about 1% of the cases, and the symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, warmth around the incision site, and pus coming out of the wound. Patients can also have fever, nausea, and chills. This infection can easily be treated by antibiotics – it’s only crucial to reach out to your foot doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms.
How to Prevent It?
Keep the incision site clean, dry, and covered with bandages for as long as your doctor recommends it – it’s usually 3 to 4 weeks. Additionally, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-op care down to every last detail.
Swelling and Stiffness Can Also Appear After the Procedure
Swelling and stiffness are to be expected after this surgical procedure. It’s nothing to worry about – the swelling will gradually subside, and it will be gone six weeks after surgery. In some cases, mild swelling may remain present for the first six months after the procedure. Stiffness and numbness will go away as you recover. They can remain only in rare cases – this points to nerve damage, which requires additional treatment.
Pain and Discomfort Are Common
A certain level of pain and discomfort after foot surgery is normal – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to relieve the pain. Your doctor will advise you how to do that. Usually, doctors recommend icing the operated area several times a day (but remember never put ice directly on the wound, put it in a clean cloth) and elevating the foot (this will help reduce swelling, which will consequently reduce pain). You can also take some over-the-counter pain medications. Consult with your doctor about how much you should be taking and how many times a day.
Some People Suffer From Delayed Healing
Every operation on the foot that involves surgical work on the bones carries a risk of delayed healing. Of course, this doesn’t happen often. Delayed healing may occur if you don’t follow your doctor’s advice for recovery or if you have other medical conditions that can interfere with recovery after tailor bunion surgery.
Talk to Your Doctor in Miami About Complications Before the Surgery
Tailor bunion surgery is often necessary for improving a patient’s quality of life, and it has a very low rate of complications. Still, it’s wise to talk to your doctor before you decide to schedule this procedure – it’s important to be fully informed. If you’re looking for a reliable foot doctor in Miami, the team at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic is exactly what you need. Contact us to book your free first consultation and talk to our doctors about tailor bunion surgery.
FAQ
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Tailor Bunion Surgery?
The recovery period after tailor bunion surgery lasts 4-6 weeks, depending on the individual characteristics of every patient. The strongest pain will cease after the first week, and in the second week, you can slowly start to use your foot for small distances in the house.
Is It Normal to Experience Pain After Tailor Bunion Surgery?
Yes, a certain level of pain after tailor bunion surgery is quite normal. Your doctor will recommend icing, elevating the foot, and taking pain medication to help you battle the pain.
References
- Luxe Foot Surgery – Tailor Bunion Surgery Miami
- Luxe Foot Surgery – Tailor Bunion Surgery Risks
