A bunion that causes discomfort and pain may need to be treated with bunion surgery. A bunion is described as an enlargement of the joint at the base of the biggest toe. A bunion is easily discerned by the bump on the big toe joint. The tissues surrounding the big toe joint may be tender and swollen. Most often the big toe will turn toward the second toe which may necessitate bunion surgery.

Some people with bunions may find walking difficult or painful. The shoes may rub on the bunion, causing severe pain, sores, or blisters on the foot. Bunions may become infected if diabetes is also a factor. Bunion surgery will be suggested by a health professional if any one or more of the symptoms is being experienced.

The types of bunion surgery are varied and numerous. Since there are so many kinds of bunions that people suffer from, the type of bunion surgery required is varied as well. More than one type of surgical procedure can be performed at the same time.

Complications from bunion surgery are rare but should be reviewed prior to any procedure. Some patients experience side effects from the anesthesia used during the bunion surgery. At times, the patient may have decreased feeling or localized numbness in the toe from damage to the nerves. If a large part of the bone is removed, the big toe may be shorter.

The outcome of the bunion surgery is hard to predict for even the best doctors. Some patients may have such a severe case of deformity that only a small amount of improvement can be obtained. One study reports that 25% to 33% of bunion surgery patients were disappointed in their surgery results.

Bunions may also reappear again after bunion surgery, especially if behavior is not altered. Most often, the types of shoes worn contributes to the bunion problem. Check with a heath professional to learn which types of shoes to avoid.

For some types of bunions, surgery is very successful. Bunion surgery can allow some to walk without pain and discomfort. When the bone alignment is restored through bunion surgery, the patient will be able to wear shoes without pain.