MIS Bunion Post Op Instructions
MIS Bunion Post Op Instructions
🦶 Post-Op Instructions: Bunion Correction (Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy)
Gentle Foot Care Clinic
Dr. Jairo Cruz, Jr., DPM | 📞 (813) 502-5904
📍 Brandon & Zephyrhills | 🌐 www.gentlefootdoctor.com
📝 What Was Done
You’ve undergone a Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy, a procedure aimed at correcting the bunion deformity with tiny incisions and specialized instruments. This technique allows for less soft tissue disruption, reduced pain, and a faster return to normal activities compared to traditional bunion surgery.
🩹 Post-Operative Care
🚶♂️ Activity & Weight-Bearing
Do NOT walk barefoot.
You may walk in the post-op surgical shoe or boot provided by Dr. Cruz, unless instructed otherwise.
For the first 1–2 weeks, practice heel-weight bearing only, placing weight on the heel, not the front of the foot.
Limit excessive walking and keep your foot elevated as much as possible to help with swelling during your bunion surgery recovery.
🧼 Wound Care
Keep the dressing clean and dry at all times.
Do not remove the surgical bandage unless instructed, as it is essential for maintaining the corrected alignment.
If the bandage becomes soaked with blood or fluid, or loosens, please call our office immediately.
💊 Medications
Take your prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter options like Tylenol/Ibuprofen as directed.
If you were given antibiotics, ensure you complete the full course as instructed.
Avoid aspirin unless otherwise directed.
❄️ Swelling & Pain Management
Apply ice to your ankle or behind the knee for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily, for the first 3–5 days after your Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy.
Elevate your foot above heart level whenever possible.
Some swelling and bruising can be expected for several weeks during the recovery process.
👟 Footwear
Wear your surgical shoe/boot at all times throughout the initial healing phase.
Do not switch to a regular shoe until cleared by Dr. Cruz.
During recovery, avoid high heels, tight shoes, or any footwear that puts pressure on the forefoot.
🚫 Things to Avoid
No soaking the foot until cleared by the doctor (no baths, pools, hot tubs).
Avoid smoking or nicotine use, as these impair healing.
Refrain from driving until you receive clearance, especially if the surgery was on your right foot.
🗓 Follow-Up Care
Your first post-op appointment is typically 7–10 days after the Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy for a dressing change and to assess healing.
Further visits will be scheduled every 2–4 weeks, depending on your healing process during the bunion surgery recovery.
⚠️ When to Call the Office Immediately
If you experience increasing pain or swelling not controlled with medication
A fever over 101°F
Foul-smelling or discolored drainage
New numbness, tingling, or changes in toe color
Loosening of the bandage or bleeding that won’t stop
✅ Healing Timeline (Approximate)
Week 1–2: Heel weight-bearing only; manage swelling
Week 3–4: Possible transition to a wider shoe (if advised)
Week 6+: Return to regular shoe gear and normal activities
Full recovery and bone remodeling can take 3–6 months
📞 Questions or Concerns?
Call or text our office anytime:
📞 (813) 502-5904
