Bunion surgery realigns the joint at the base of the big toe to relieve pain from a bunion. Dr. Tine performs bunion surgery in Fort Lauderdale for patients whose pain limits daily life after footwear changes, padding, and orthotics have been tried without lasting relief.
Stephanie Tine performs bunion surgery in Fort Lauderdale when it is the right step, and reviews every alternative with you first.
What is Bunion Surgery?
A bunion, also called hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms as the big toe drifts out of alignment and the joint pushes outward.
Bunion surgery corrects that alignment.
Surgery is not the first step. It is considered only after non-surgical measures have been tried and pain still limits walking, shoe choices, or daily activity. The goal is to relieve pain and straighten the toe, not to change the look of the foot.
There is no single bunion operation. The right technique depends on the size of the deformity and the shape of your bones, which weight-bearing X-rays reveal.
What happens during Bunion Surgery, step by step?
Bunion surgery corrects alignment by working on the bone, the soft tissues, or both.
In an osteotomy, the surgeon makes a precise cut in the bone and shifts it into a straighter position, holding it with small screws or a plate. Severe or arthritic bunions may instead need a fusion, which permanently joins two bones so the joint no longer moves. Dr. Tine chooses the technique to match your X-rays and your foot, and reviews the plan with you before surgery. Most bunion procedures are outpatient, meaning you go home the same day.
What is recovery like after Bunion Surgery?
Recovery depends on the technique.
You will likely wear a special shoe or boot at first and limit weight on the foot as directed. Return to comfortable everyday shoes and normal walking is commonly reported over several weeks to a few months, with swelling that can take longer to fully settle, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises. Your recovery depends on the technique used, your healing, and your rehabilitation.
Read the full guide to preparing for surgery →
Your own recovery instructions come from the office and are specific to you. This page describes the general course, not a plan to follow.
What are the treatment options?
- 01Wider shoes with a roomy toe box to reduce pressureWider shoes with a roomy toe box to reduce pressure
- 02Bunion pads or spacers for cushioningBunion pads or spacers for cushioning
- 03Orthotics, shoe inserts that support the footOrthotics, shoe inserts that support the foot
- 04Anti-inflammatory medicine for flare-upsAnti-inflammatory medicine for flare-ups
- 05Activity and footwear changesActivity and footwear changes
- 06Bunion surgery, considered only when the steps above no longer control painBunion surgery, considered only when the steps above no longer control pain
What do patients ask most?
When is bunion surgery worth it?+
How long will I be off my feet after bunion surgery?+
Can a bunion come back after surgery?+
Will I be able to wear normal shoes again?+
Trained at Adventist Health White Memorial, Los Angeles (three-year foot and ankle surgical residency, Chief Resident). Sees patients in Fort Lauderdale.
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