Bunion Correction

Bunion Correction - Foot Surgeon in Hobart

A bunion (hallux valgus) is a progressive deformity of the big toe joint, where the big toe drifts towards the smaller toes and a bony bump forms at its base. Bunions can cause pain, difficulty fitting into footwear, and changes to the way you walk. Mr Shalinder Sadiq assesses and treats bunions in Hobart, and will discuss both non-surgical and surgical options with you as part of your consultation.

How bunion surgery works

Surgery is generally considered when a bunion causes ongoing pain or difficulty with daily activities and footwear that hasn't responded to non-surgical measures, such as wider or supportive shoes, orthotics or padding. Bunion correction is a collective term for several surgical techniques used to realign the big toe joint, most commonly involving an osteotomy, cutting and repositioning the metatarsal bone, which is then held in place with small screws or plates while it heals. The specific technique depends on the severity of the deformity and your individual foot anatomy, and Mr Sadiq will explain which approach he recommends for you and why.

Advantages

Realigns the big toe, relieving pain and pressure on the joint

Improves the ability to wear regular footwear comfortably

Can improve the way you stand and walk if the bunion has been affecting your gait

Considerations

  • As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, delayed wound healing, stiffness, and nerve-related numbness or tingling around the toe
  • Bunions can recur over time, in a minority of cases significantly enough to need further treatment
  • Not everyone is a suitable candidate, for example, those with poor circulation or diabetes carry a higher risk of wound-healing complications, and Mr Sadiq will assess your individual suitability
RECOVERY

After your operation

Most patients go home the same day, with the foot in a dressing or surgical boot. Weight-bearing after surgery depends on the specific procedure performed, some patients can walk in a protected boot from early on, while others need a period of limited weight-bearing while the bone heals. Swelling can take several months to fully settle, and a gradual return to normal footwear typically happens over the following weeks. Mr Sadiq will give you a recovery plan specific to your procedure, with follow-up review as your foot heals.

See our Recovery page for general guidance on preparing for surgery and what to expect after discharge, or call us on 03 6279 5798.

Is bunion correction right for you?

Mr Sadiq will assess your bunion, discuss non-surgical options first, and advise whether surgery is appropriate for you and which technique would best suit your foot, as part of your consultation.

Frequently asked questions for patients

Ready to take the next step in your care?

Book a consultation with Mr Sadiq, or register as a new patient to get started ahead of your visit.