Bunion Surgery in Fort Worth & Weatherford, TX

Living with a bunion can be painful and make simple activities like walking and standing difficult. If you are suffering from a bunion, Dr. Gary Driver is here to help. He integrates advanced treatment techniques with patient-centered care to alleviate pain and restore functionality. To receive treatment for your bunion, you can book an appointment at his Fort Worth or Weatherford clinic.

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe, which often results in pain, redness, and rubbing in footwear. The first metatarsal bone abnormally angles outward towards the other foot from its joint in the midfoot. A bunion can change the shape of your foot, make it difficult for you to find shoes that fit correctly, and worsen if left untreated.

 

Signs and Symptoms of a Bunion

Although it is not clearly understood why bunions occur, possible causes include:

• Family history and genetics.
• Arthritis (inflammation of the joints), including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
• Neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy (affects movement and coordination).
• Connective tissue disorders such as Marfan’s syndrome.
• Tight-fitting shoes, such as high heels.

The diagnosis of a bunion by an orthopedic surgeon involves reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination to assess the extent of misalignment and damage to the soft tissues. Your surgeon will usually order weight-bearing X-rays (X-rays taken while standing) to assess the severity of the bunion and deformity of the toe joint.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Bunions

Your GP may have already recommended conservative treatment measures with the goal of reducing or eliminating your foot pain.

Such measures can include:

• Medications for relieving pain and inflammation.
• Wearing shoes with a wide and high-toe box.
• Avoiding tight shoes.
• Using orthotics to realign the bones of your foot and ease pain.
• Ice applications several times a day.

Conservative treatment measures can help relieve the discomfort of a bunion and can prevent it from becoming worse.

As with any surgery, bunion surgery involves certain risks and complications. They include:

• infection
• recurrence of the bunion
• nerve damage
• unresolved pain and swelling
• Joint stiffness or restricted movement
• Delayed healing or healing in the wrong position

In rare cases, a second surgery may be necessary to correct complications.

Patients should follow all instructions given by their orthopedic surgeon following surgery. These may include:

• Keeping your dressings dry and leaving them in place until your next outpatient appointment
• Avoiding walking where possible
• Elevating your foot for the first 6 weeks to minimize swelling 
• Wearing specially designed post-operative shoes

Why Choose Dr. Gary Driver for Bunion Surgery in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?

Here is what makes Dr. Gary Driver’s treatment options effective and reliable:

• Advanced Treatment Techniques: Dr. Gary Driver performs minimally invasive bunion correction that allows patients to walk on the same day as the surgery in a surgical shoe or walking boot. The procedure only requires small keyhole incisions, ensuring a cosmetically pleasing outcome. Most patients can return to wearing regular shoes early on in their recovery.
• Patient-Centred Care: Dr. Gary Driver prioritizes a personalized treatment approach to meet his patients’ unique medical needs. He will explain every aspect of bunion surgery so that you can make an informed treatment decision. 
• Convenient Locations: Dr. Gary Driver operates in Fort Worth and Weatherford clinics, providing his patients with convenient access to treatment. All you have to do is call and schedule an appointment at whichever location is closest to you. 
• Fellowship-Trained Foot and Ankle Surgeon: Dr. Gary Driver is a board-certified fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon who specializes in addressing bunions and other foot deformities. With his exceptional medical expertise and knowledge, you can rest assured you are in capable hands.

Get Effective Bunion Treatment in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX

A bunion can prevent you from living a pain-free and active life. With Dr. Gary Driver’s expertise and patient-centered care, you can regain foot mobility and find lasting relief. To make an appointment with Dr. Gary Driver, for bunion surgery in Fort Worth & Weatherford, TX, call his office or fill out the online booking form on his website. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the different types of bunion surgery?

The main types of bunion surgery include:

• Osteotomy: Osteotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves removing the bony lump on the side of the foot and realigning your big toe joint. This procedure is categorized into three types: akin osteotomy, chevron osteotomy, and scarf osteotomy.
• Arthrodesis: This procedure is performed if arthritis in your feet has caused a bunion to form. It involves removing any parts of the big toe joint that have arthritis and placing screws in the bones to fuse them together. This arthrodesis surgery is usually only recommended for severe cases. 
• Lapidus: This surgery is also recommended for severe cases. It involves removing the bunion and realigning the foot by fusing the joint between the first metatarsal bone and the medial cuneiform bone for lasting stability.
• Exostectomy: This surgery involves shaving off the bunion. Most cases requiring surgery are severe enough that additional procedures, such as an osteotomy, are necessary. 

What is the cost of bunion surgery in Fort Worth and Weatherford, TX?

The cost of bunion surgery in Fort Worth and Weatherford depends on the type of surgical procedure required. Dr. Gary Driver offers flexible payment options so you can focus on recovery without the stress of upfront medical bills.

Does insurance cover bunion surgery?

Yes, most insurance providers cover bunion surgery. Make sure to check your insurance plan to see if coverage applies.

What should I expect during the recovery period?

Recovering from bunion surgery takes time, but by following your surgeon’s guidelines, you can speed up the process. During this period, you may experience some swelling and soreness. Your surgeon may provide you with gentle exercises and stretches to help you restore your foot’s strength and mobility.

Can a bunion come back after surgery?

Yes, there is a chance that a bunion can come back after surgery. The chances of recurrence depend largely on the type of surgical procedure you undergo, the severity of your condition, and your post-surgery care. Dr. Gary Driver goes above and beyond to offer effective bunion treatment that ensures lasting recovery and minimal recurrence.

Is bunion surgery painful?

No, bunion surgery is not painful. Your surgeon will put you under general anesthesia to make sure the surgery is pain-free. However, you may experience some post-surgery pain and swelling, which can be managed with painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to bunion surgery?

Yes, there are some non-surgical treatment options for bunions when they are in their early stages. Non-surgical treatment can involve changing shoes, taking pain medication, using shoe inserts, applying ice, and splinting. However, these conservative treatment methods may not be able to address a severe bunion effectively.

How can bunions be prevented?

Most bunions can be avoided by adopting the following preventive measures:

• Always wear shoes with a wide toe box to avoid toe crowding and prevent joint misalignment.
• Avoid wearing high heels, as they force the toes forward and can cause deformity of the metatarsal bones.
• Use orthotics as recommended to help distribute weight evenly.
• Whenever possible slip off your shoes and stretch your feet for a few minutes at a time throughout the day.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity increases stress on the joints of your feet.
• Exercise regularly to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the feet.