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.

I’m having my MIS surgery on this Friday. I’m just curious…

From Bunion Surgery / Foot Surgery Support

I’m having my MIS surgery on this Friday. I’m just curious… how long did you take to be able to go back to work. I’m in property management, so I can sit down as needed and, my foot is my driving foot. I’m just estimating like 3 weeks but wanted to see how it worked out for people who have already been through it. All reactions:

e g r s stretching surgery u y I M S minimally invasive surgery

Comments (6)

View more answers Anonymous member 910 Comp and bonuses sound attractive in the beginning. She needs to ask about VRC, your renewal commission base 4.5% and you have to reach certain metrics to earn full comp. If you are not quoting home/auto bundles over a certain % they restrict your home bind ability. Policy cancellations are restricted and customer has to call Farmers retention team to cancel. This is all in Texas. Your state may be different.

Community member

Andrew Sticklen Rising contributor All the Farmer’s agents I know are ex-Farmers agents.

Community member

Answer as Justin Bunion Support Group(: Jenn Chladil Top contributor Hello fellow "Did I really do this?", I had a new thing happen tonight. I have been putting an elastic bandage on my foot since I am able to walk now. It helps with the swelling. I took it off tonight because I wanted to lotion my foot. Holy cow! It looked like a snake shedding its skin!! I immediately googled to see if the internet could tell me if this was normal. IT IS!! Who knew! When your foot is swollen for a while, the skin stretches and as your foot heals, it sheds that old skin. This is healthy and completely normal. It means you are healing. I have an appointment for a pedicure tomorrow but am wondering if I should wait until my foot is past this stage. My podiatrist did say I could get a pedicure now but I would feel terrible for my technician who has to deal with this. Ugh. Just wanted to share incase any of you are having this happen and wondering if it is normal. I have to say I was glad to read it is and that it means healing is occurring! Woo hoo!! See less All reactions:

Community member

Comment View more answers Elaine Barling I'm nearly two months post-op now and the last of the dead skin has finally come off. I'm quite amazed about how smooth the underlying skin is

Community member

Jenn Chladil replied 1 Reply Victoria Rose Baxter Top contributor Yup, the snakey skin shed is the norm. My foot now has lovely soft fresh skin far nicer than my good foot I was actually thinking of painting my tootsies too, just a little win

Community member

Jenn Chladil replied 1 Reply Answer as Justin

Community member