If you have a bunionette, also known as a tailor bunion, you are probably aware that this condition requires surgical treatment. Many patients are worried about having tailor bunion surgery with screws, but is this procedure something that should scare you? We’ve explained how this procedure works and what you can expect from the recovery process in the text below.
How Is Tailor Bunion Surgery With Screws Carried Out?
A tailor bunion is a bony bump on the outside of the foot, and it’s a result of an irregular alignment of the fifth metatarsal bone. Tailor bunion surgery is the only way to fix this problem. The procedure can consist of simply shaving off the bunion (shaving off the part of the bone that causes the bump), or more commonly, it involves realigning the metatarsal bone, so it can be brought back to its original position.
What procedure you need depends on the severity of your case – the doctor will decide this when they examine you and see your X-rays. Either way, you are likely to need screws that will keep the bone in the desired place. Bunion surgery screws are implemented during the procedure, and they stay in the foot permanently.
How Does the Recovery Process Go?
This surgery is a minimally invasive one, and it’s an outpatient procedure – this means you will be able to go home the same day after surgery. All you need to do is make sure that someone comes to pick you up since you won’t be able to drive on your own. Tailor bunion surgery is done under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing. You will also be given a local anesthetic – your foot will be numb after surgery, and you won’t feel any pain.
What Should You Expect Immediately After the Surgery?
Once the anesthetic wears off, you will start to feel some level of pain, but don’t worry – your doctor will give you a prescription for a pain medication that should help you. Your foot will be in bandages (that will stay on for about two weeks), and you will be provided with a surgical shoe and crutches that will help you out in the first few weeks of your recovery. Additionally, you will be referred to a physiotherapist who will advise you on the physical therapy you might require.
Recovery in the First Few Weeks
The recovery period will last for about six weeks. You will have to stay off your feet for the first two weeks, and then you can start to walk short distances in your home. Of course, this means that you will have to take some time off work – rest is of utmost importance for a quick recovery.
You will be able to manage the pain with the medication that your doctor has prescribed, but don’t forget that there will be significant swelling in the first few weeks post-op. Elevating your foot should help with that – be sure to elevate it as often as you can, and don’t forget that the foot needs to be above the level of your heart in order for this to work.
Average Cost of Tailor Bunion Surgery with Screws in the US
The average cost of tailor bunion surgery with screws in the United States can vary widely depending on several factors such as the location of the surgery, the surgeon’s experience, and whether the surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis.
According to the Healthcare Bluebook, the fair price for this procedure ranges from $2,500 to $6,500, with the national average being around $4,500. But it’s important to keep in mind that these are average figures and the actual cost of your surgery may be more or less than this, also your insurance coverage may play a role in the final cost.
We recommend you check with your insurance company to know what is covered and also to consult with your surgeon about the cost of the procedure.
When Can You Start Walking After the Surgery?
As we’ve mentioned above, you will be able to walk short distances in two weeks, but this surely doesn’t mean you will be able to get back to running after bunion surgery in such a short period of time! On average, it takes six weeks for patients to be able to walk comfortably – this means that you need to recover to be able to endure weight-bearing for longer periods.
Go Over Tailor Bunion Surgery With Screws With Your Surgeon
If you’re still worried about tailor bunion surgery and the period after the procedure, the best thing you can do to take your mind off those worries is to consult with an experienced surgeon. They will be able to explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. Our doctors at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic might be the perfect fit for you – don’t hesitate to contact us to book your free first consultation.
FAQ
Can You Walk After Tailor Bunion Surgery?
No, you can’t walk immediately after tailor bunion surgery. It will take you about six weeks to fully recover and get back to weight-bearing for longer periods of time. Still, you will be able to walk short distances in your home in two weeks after surgery.
Do All Bunion Surgeries Require Screws?
Not all bunion surgeries require screws. Some do, while others don’t – it depends on the severity of the case and the surgical technique that’s chosen for the procedure in question.
