Fix your bunion — without a long, painful recovery.

A bunion (medically called hallux valgus) is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint. It happens when the big toe drifts toward the second toe, causing the metatarsal bone to stick outward. This isn't just a bump — it's a progressive joint deformity. As it worsens, the joint becomes inflamed, painful, and arthritic. Bunions are caused by a mix of genetics, foot mechanics (flat feet, high arches), and footwear choices. They run in families and almost always get worse without treatment.

Yes — conservative bunion treatment is always our first approach. Custom orthotics correct the foot mechanics that drive the bunion. Switching to shoes with a wide toe box reduces direct pressure. Night splints gently realign the big toe while you sleep. Bunion pads and gel sleeves cushion the joint for immediate relief. However, it's important to understand: conservative treatment manages symptoms and slows progression, but it cannot reverse the bony deformity. If your bunion continues to worsen or the pain interferes with daily life, bunion surgery becomes the definitive solution.

There are three main bunion correction approaches, chosen based on your bunion's severity: (1) Minimally Invasive Chevron Osteotomy — tiny incisions to cut and shift the bone into alignment, fixated with small screws. Best for mild to moderate bunions. Minimal scarring, rapid recovery. (2) Lapiplasty® 3D Correction — corrects the bunion in all three dimensions by rotating the metatarsal bone back to its natural position. Addresses the root cause. (3) Lapidus Fusion — fuses the unstable midfoot joint for severe, rigid bunions or hypermobility. Most powerful correction, highest long-term success. Your bunion surgeon will recommend the right one after examining your foot and X-rays.

Modern minimally invasive bunion surgery has much faster recovery than traditional open procedures. Here's what to expect: Day of surgery — walk in a post-op boot, go home same day. Week 1 — elevation and ice, walking in the boot for bathroom and meals. Weeks 2-4 — transition to a comfortable sneaker or wide shoe. Week 6 — most patients return to normal shoes and activities. Week 8-12 — return to impact exercise and sports. Desk workers often return to work within days. The key difference today? You're walking immediately — not laid up for weeks. Swelling can persist for several months but steadily improves.

Recurrence rates with modern bunion correction are low — especially with Lapiplasty and Lapidus fusion, which address the unstable joint at the root of the problem. Traditional bunion surgery had higher recurrence because it only shaved the bump without fixing the underlying instability. Our bunion surgeon also addresses contributing factors — prescribing custom orthotics, guiding footwear choices, and treating any associated conditions (flat feet, hammertoes) during the same procedure. The goal is a permanent correction, not a temporary fix.

Yes — bunion correction is considered medically necessary when it causes pain, limits walking, or interferes with daily activities. Insurance typically covers both conservative bunion treatment and bunion surgery. We accept most major insurance plans and our team handles all pre-authorizations and paperwork. For patients without insurance or with high deductibles, we offer transparent self-pay pricing and payment plans. We'll give you a clear cost breakdown before any treatment begins — no surprises.