Bunions (hallux valgus) can make everyday steps uncomfortable. Modern minimally invasive bunion surgery realigns the big toe through tiny incisions, typically performed as an outpatient, same-day procedure. Many patients can take short, protected steps the same day as their surgery.

What the Surgery Involves

Through tiny 2–5 mm incisions, the surgeon reshapes and realigns the first metatarsal and big toe using specialized instruments under live X-ray guidance. Small screws hold the correction in place. Because soft tissues are disturbed less than with traditional open surgery, patients often experience less swelling and a smoother early recovery.

Why patients choose minimally invasive bunion surgery:

• Tiny incisions and smaller scars
• Less soft-tissue disruption, often less pain and swelling
• Same-day discharge from the surgery center
• Immediate, protected weight-bearing in a boot or surgical shoe (as directed)
• Faster transition back to regular shoes for appropriately selected cases

Who Is a Good Candidate?

People with mild to moderate bunion deformity who haven’t improved with wider shoes, pads, spacers, or orthotics often qualify. Limited arthritis in the big-toe joint, the ability to follow postoperative instructions, and avoiding nicotine all support better outcomes. Severe deformity or advanced arthritis may still be better treated with open reconstruction or fusion.

The Same-Day Experience

Before surgery, you’ll review imaging and medications and arrange a ride home. Most procedures use a local nerve block plus light sedation. Operating time commonly ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the foot and complexity. A protective boot or surgical shoe is placed before you leave, along with written instructions and a follow-up plan.

Walking the Day of Surgery

In many cases, short, protected walking begins immediately after surgery while wearing the prescribed boot or surgical shoe and following your surgeon’s weight-bearing limits. Think essential trips only—bathroom, brief household distances—then elevate to manage swelling.

Day-one tips:

• Keep walks brief; elevate above heart level between them
• Use crutches or a cane if recommended
• Follow wound-care and icing instructions exactly

Recovery Snapshot

Expect the first 72 hours to focus on swelling control with elevation and limited steps. Activity increases gradually as comfort improves and X-rays confirm healing. Many patients begin transitioning to wide, supportive sneakers around weeks 4–6 and resume low-impact exercise by weeks 8–12. Some swelling can persist for several months even as function returns to normal.
Driving note: After right-foot surgery, wait until you’re out of the boot and off prescription pain medication. Left-foot surgery may allow earlier return with an automatic transmission—get specific clearance first.

Pain Control

Most teams use a multimodal plan: a regional nerve block during surgery, scheduled acetaminophen and anti-inflammatories afterward, and limited opioids only if needed. Many patients use fewer strong pain medications than expected.

Risks to Consider

All procedures carry risks. Careful planning and strict adherence to instructions help reduce complications.

Potential risks include:

• Infection or delayed bone healing
• Nerve irritation or numbness; joint stiffness
• Under- or over-correction; transfer metatarsalgia
• Hardware irritation or recurrence of the bunion

Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Open Surgery

Both approaches can work well when matched to the right problem. Minimally invasive techniques generally offer smaller incisions, less soft-tissue trauma, and earlier protected weight-bearing. Traditional open procedures—or fusion—may be preferred for severe deformities or significant arthritis where stronger correction or joint stabilization is needed.

Practical Prep for a Smooth First Week

Arrange a ride and a little help at home, set up a “recovery station” with pillows for elevation, medications, water, and chargers, and have supportive, wide-toe-box shoes ready for the transition out of the boot. Avoid nicotine and follow any medication adjustments exactly as instructed.

Non-Surgical Symptom Relief

While these do not correct the bunion, wider footwear, pads or spacers, supportive inserts, activity modifications, and short courses of anti-inflammatories (when appropriate) can ease discomfort and delay surgery.

FAQs

Can both feet be corrected at once? Sometimes, but many surgeons stage procedures to make mobility easier.
When can I return to work? Desk roles often resume in 3–7 days; standing roles in ~2–4+ weeks; heavy labor ~6–8+ weeks, individualized.
Will insurance cover it? Typically yes when medically necessary for pain and functional limitation; not for cosmetic correction alone. Speak with your insurance provider for more information.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a licensed physician before attempting any treatment regimen.