Post-Operative Instructions
Following bunion surgery, keep the dressing dry and remove it only after consulting your surgeon. Other common post-operative instructions include:
- Cover the foot to keep it dry while you bathe
- Your doctor may prescribe splints, special shoes or walking casts to help healing of the bones and soft tissues. You can wear regular footwear after a few weeks or months depending on your recovery.
- Avoid weight on the operated foot for a few weeks.
- Keep the foot elevated whenever possible to minimise swelling.
- You may be prescribed exercises for strengthening the foot and to restore normal range of motion.
- The doctor may advise you to stop smoking in order to avoid post-operative complications.
- Your doctor may order X-rays to monitor the post-operative recovery.
Recovery depends on the severity of the bone and soft tissue injury. The period of recovery ranges from 6 weeks to 6 months and may take up to 1 year for complete healing.