by Facing bunion surgery can be daunting, and one of the biggest concerns patients have is what the recovery will look like. Questions about when you can walk again, how much time you’ll need off your feet, and what pitfalls to avoid are completely normal. In this guide, we’ll walk through the bunion surgery recovery timeline and answer the most common questions patients ask. By understanding the process and following best practices, you’ll be well on your way to a smoother recovery and back on your feet with confidence.
- How long does it take to walk normally after bunion surgery?
- What happens if I accidentally put weight on my foot after bunion surgery?
- What are the downsides of bunion surgery?
- What days are the worst after bunion surgery?
- When can I stop elevating my foot after bunion surgery?
- What age is best for bunion surgery?
- How to speed up bunion surgery recovery?
- Can you correct a bunion without surgery?
- What not to do after bunion surgery?
- Can you feel the screws after bunion surgery?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
How long does it take to walk normally after bunion surgery?
Most patients can walk fairly normally about six weeks after bunion or hallux valgus surgery. Initially, you’ll be using a surgical boot or special shoe and limiting weight on the foot (often just heel-weight or using crutches). Around the six-week mark, once X-rays show the bone has healed, you can usually transition to regular shoes and a normal walking gait. Everyone recovers at their own pace – some people might walk comfortably a bit earlier, while others may need a couple of extra weeks. Keep in mind that full recovery (returning to high-impact activities or running) can take a few months, but basic daily walking improves significantly by the end of the second month.
What happens if I accidentally put weight on my foot after bunion surgery?
If you accidentally put weight on your foot too early after surgery, you might feel a surge of pain or increased swelling. The good news is that one brief misstep is unlikely to ruin the surgical repair. It can, however, make your foot sore and inflamed. If this happens, get off your foot, elevate it, and apply ice. If the pain and swelling settle down within a day or so, you’re probably fine – but if they persist or worsen, call your surgeon for advice. Most importantly, try to avoid further accidents by using your crutches, walker, or knee scooter until you’re cleared for weight-bearing.
What are the downsides of bunion surgery?
Bunion surgery does have some downsides. First, the recovery requires staying off your foot for several weeks, which can be inconvenient (you may need time off work and help with daily tasks). You’ll also have pain and swelling in the early days, especially the first week, although medication and rest will help. As with any surgery, there’s a small risk of complications like infection, delayed healing, or nerve irritation (causing numbness in the toe). Some people experience stiffness or reduced range of motion in the big toe joint after it heals. You will also have a scar along the side of your foot, and in a small percentage of cases the bunion could eventually come back years later. On the bright side, the procedure can greatly relieve pain and improve foot alignment for most patients.
What days are the worst after bunion surgery?
The first few days after bunion surgery are usually the toughest. Pain and swelling peak around days 2 and 3 post-op (once the anaesthesia wears off). During this time, it’s crucial to rest, keep your foot elevated, and take your prescribed pain medication on schedule to stay ahead of the pain. You may feel throbbing when your foot is down, which is normal in early recovery. By day 4 or 5, many people notice the pain starting to ease. The first week is the most challenging, but after that, each day tends to get a little better.
When can I stop elevating my foot after bunion surgery?
Keep your foot elevated as much as possible for at least the first two weeks after bunion surgery to minimise swelling. In the first week especially, have your foot up whenever you’re resting. By around two weeks post-op, you can usually start spending more time with your foot down as long as swelling is under control. Even after two weeks, continue to elevate your foot periodically (for example, in the evenings or after lots of standing) if you notice any swelling or throbbing. Use swelling as your guide – if your foot puffs up when it’s not elevated, it’s a sign you should prop it up a bit longer.
What age is best for bunion surgery?
There’s no single “best” age for bunion surgery – it depends on when the bunion is causing significant problems that can’t be managed with conservative care. Surgeons generally wait until a patient’s bones have stopped growing (after the teenage years) so the bunion is less likely to return. Many people choose to have bunion surgery in mid-adulthood (their 40s or 50s) when the deformity has progressed and daily pain or mobility issues become hard to tolerate. However, younger adults can also have the procedure if the bunion is severely painful and nothing else provides relief. Ultimately, the right time for bunion surgery is when the bunion’s impact on your quality of life justifies the surgery, rather than a specific age number.
How to speed up bunion surgery recovery?
You can’t magically fast-forward healing, but you can help your recovery go smoothly by taking good care of yourself. Here are some tips to support a faster recovery:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Stick to your weight-bearing guidelines, wound care directions, and follow-up appointments to avoid setbacks.
- Rest and elevate (plus ice): Rest is vital. Keep your foot elevated as much as possible, and use ice packs if recommended, to reduce swelling and aid healing.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat nutritious foods, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking (and excessive alcohol), since these can slow down healing.
- Do gentle exercise when allowed: If your doctor approves, simple foot exercises or physical therapy can improve strength and flexibility as you heal.
Can you correct a bunion without surgery?
You cannot truly reverse a bunion without surgery, but you can manage the symptoms and possibly slow its progression with conservative treatments such as:
- Proper footwear: Wear shoes with a wide toe box and good support to reduce pressure on the bunion.
- Supportive devices: Use orthotic inserts, bunion pads, or toe spacers to relieve pressure and provide mild alignment help.
- Foot exercises: Do stretches and exercises for your toes (like toe stretches or picking up marbles with your toes) to keep the joint flexible and strengthen the foot.
These methods won’t straighten the bone like surgery, but they can improve comfort and help slow a bunion’s worsening. Many people with mild bunions manage well and delay or avoid surgery by using these measures.
What not to do after bunion surgery?
To protect your foot after surgery, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t put weight on your foot too soon: Walking on the operated foot before your doctor clears it can disrupt healing. Use your crutches or scooter as directed to keep weight off until it’s safe.
- Don’t get your incision wet or tamper with bandages: Keep your dressings clean and dry until your surgeon says otherwise. Getting the wound wet or removing bandages early can invite infection or affect the bone alignment.
- Don’t ignore aftercare instructions: Attend your follow-up appointments and call your doctor if you notice signs of infection or complications (like worsening redness, swelling, or fever).
- Don’t rush back into tight shoes or heavy activities: Even once you’re walking, stick with comfortable, roomy shoes (no tight heels) until fully healed. Also wait on strenuous exercise or sports until your doctor gives the green light.
Can you feel the screws after bunion surgery?
In general, you will not feel the screws or other hardware in your foot once you’ve healed from bunion surgery. Surgeons use small metal screws that stay embedded in the bone, so they usually aren’t noticeable. Early on, your foot might feel stiff or numb, but that’s due to the surgery and swelling, not the screws. Only in rare cases does the hardware irritate surrounding tissue and cause discomfort. If that happens, the screws can be removed after the bone heals. For most people, the hardware is completely unnoticeable in daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bunion surgery very painful?
Bunion surgery does cause some pain, but it’s usually manageable and short-lived. The worst discomfort typically occurs in the first 2–3 days post-op. Your doctor will provide pain medication, and keeping the foot elevated and iced also helps. After the first week, pain levels decrease dramatically for most people. Many patients find that the pain was less intense than they anticipated.
When can I drive after bunion surgery?
If you had surgery on your right foot, you’ll usually need to wait about 6 to 8 weeks (until you’re out of the boot and can press the pedals firmly without pain). For left foot surgery (automatic car), you might drive sooner, perhaps in a few weeks, if you’re off pain meds and feel comfortable. Always get your doctor’s okay before driving.
When can I return to work after bunion surgery?
For a desk job, many patients can return in around 2 weeks (especially if they can keep the foot elevated). If your job involves a lot of standing or walking, expect closer to 6–8 weeks (or longer) before you can go back safely. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice – don’t rush back too soon, or you could slow down your recovery.
How long will swelling last after bunion surgery?
Swelling can last quite a while. It’s usually most pronounced in the first few weeks, then gradually improves. By about 3 months post-op, much of the swelling is gone, but you might have mild swelling by the end of the day for up to 6 months (sometimes even longer). Keeping your foot elevated when you can will help the swelling go down faster.
Can my bunion come back after surgery?
Yes, a bunion can sometimes return after surgery, although it’s not very common (around a 10% chance). To reduce the risk, wear good, supportive shoes and use orthotics if your doctor suggests them – this addresses the causes that could make a bunion come back. Most people enjoy lasting relief, but if you have a predisposition or go back to tight footwear, a bunion could form again over the years.
Conclusion
Recovering from bunion surgery takes patience, but understanding what to expect can make it much easier. By following your podiatrist’s advice and taking good care of your foot, you’ll gradually regain mobility and find relief from bunion pain. Remember that everyone heals at their own pace – listen to your body and keep your doctor informed of your progress. With time and proper care, the weeks of recovery will pay off, and you’ll be back to comfortable, pain-free feet and the activities you enjoy.
References
- Dias, C.G.P., Godoy-Santos, A.L., Ferrari, J., Ferretti, M. and Lenza, M. (2024) Surgical interventions for treating hallux valgus and bunions. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 7(7).
- Ferrari, J. (2009) Bunions. BMJ Clinical Evidence, 2009, p.1112. Accessed 31 May 2025.
- Nichols, L.R.B., Ritacco, K. and Gdalevitch, M. (2021) Adolescent bunions: Treatment options and technical pearls for the distal percutaneous osteotomy. Journal of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, 3(1), p.224.
