How long does swelling last after bunion surgery?

Based on patient experiences, mild to moderate swelling commonly lasts 3-6 months after bunion surgery, with some patients reporting swelling up to a year. The most significant swelling occurs in the first 2-4 weeks. Swelling that worsens suddenly or is accompanied by redness and heat should be reported to your surgeon.

How do I reduce swelling after bunion surgery?

The most effective strategies include: elevation (keeping the foot above heart level), icing for 20 minutes at a time, compression socks when approved by your surgeon, gentle ankle pumps and toe exercises, and limiting time on your feet. Many patients find that swelling gets worse later in the day.

Is it normal for my foot to still be swollen months after surgery?

Yes, this is very common. Many patients report that their foot is still somewhat swollen at 3, 6, or even 12 months after surgery. The swelling typically decreases gradually. However, sudden increases in swelling, especially with redness or warmth, should be evaluated by your surgeon.

When can I wear normal shoes after bunion surgery if my foot is still swollen?

Many patients transition to regular shoes around 6-12 weeks post-surgery, but may need wider sizes initially due to swelling. Adjustable shoes, wide-width options, and shoes with removable insoles are popular choices during this transition period.

9 days since hardware removal. Had to go back to knee scoote

From Bunion Surgery / Foot Surgery Support

9 days since hardware removal. Had to go back to knee scooter on day 3 because sutures are SO tight it’s absolutely excruciating when my foot swells so I only take a few steps a day in the orthopedic shoe because I’m terrified to make my foot swell more. Can’t wait to have the sutures removed on Monday. I’m anticipating how much it’s gonna hurt since they’re so tight. I have some pain pills saved up for that moment. I just can’t wait… See more All reactions:

knee scooter surgery bunionectomy hardware removal

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View more comments Dawn Lewis All-star contributor I recently had surgery on my thumb. I had to go 3 times to get stitches removed . They failed to tell me there were stitches under my nail that would need removed when my nail came off. Then she told me one was a "piece" and would fall off. It was a loop and it did not fall off. I think she was mad the 3rd time I came back because I didn't have appointments the 2nd and 3rd time.

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View 1 reply Jacquelyn Dayton Berman All-star contributor I can see the thread right there he could’ve snipped it loose instead of yanking it . He’s not the gentle sort is he? Glad it’s over for you

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Comment as Justin Jessica Alawi posted to bunion surgery / foot surgery support group All-star contributor 9 days since hardware removal. Had to go back to knee scooter on day 3 because sutures are SO tight it’s absolutely excruciating when my foot swells so I only take a few steps a day in the orthopedic shoe because I’m terrified to make my foot swell more. Can’t wait to have the sutures removed on Monday. I’m anticipating how much it’s gonna hurt since they’re so tight. I have some pain pills saved up for that moment. I just can’t wait… See more All reactions:

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Comment Kelly Stansberry I have had two surgeries. Jan will be 2years post op from first surgery. Had the 2nd surgery in October, so one year PO from that last one. I am STILL in pain. 2nd toe has a pin. I have burning on the side of my foot, where the hardware is. I have a kn… See more

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View all 2 replies Joy Lori Lyle Top contributor How long did they tell you before you scan walk again?

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View all 4 replies Comment as Justin Jessica Alawi posted to bunion surgery / foot surgery support group All-star contributor Wow the pain from getting the staples taken out of my first metatarsal 5 1/2 months post McBride Wedge (due to suspected metal allergy) is WAY worse than the original surgery. Dr increased my pain meds. I was not expecting this kind of pain. Clearly I’m not like the average patient. I really don’t know how much more of this nightmare I can take. I wish so bad that I never did this. I’d rather just live with my bunion. I had no idea it was going to be like this. All reactions:

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Comment View more comments Athena Stockwell Rising contributor So so sorry to hear about your pain. I also have a suspected metal allergy but I wanted to know how you knew for sure that it was from the metal. I had an all over body dermatitis style rash two weeks after the surgery. The problem is it was also five … See more

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View all 2 replies Mary Kline naturopath Amanda Vollmer sells various healing salves that contain DMSO, that she herself makes. she has a book she wrote about it, Healing With DMSO... DMSO is a derivitive of Pine tree. she has a site called? Yummy Mummy (i think) & she's on fb

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Comment as Justin

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