Bunion Surgery – A Painful Choice

Deciding to have bunion surgery can be one of the most difficult health decisions to make. ‘Bunions’ are a cause of distress to many thousands of people -mostly women -worldwide. Last year, I wrote about bunions and my opinion was and still is – “avoid bunion surgery if at possible, unless it is ruining your life and crippling you with pain”.

The ‘bunion’ referred to here is the bony deformity characterized by a big toe that deviates towards the rest of the toes, possibly accompanied by a second toe which is bent and overlies it.

When any surgical intervention is considered, be it the podiatrist enucleating a corn, removing part of a toe-nail or the orthopaedic surgeon realigning the foot in bunion surgery, all of us strive to do our best to achieve a satisfactory outcome, by exercising our skills to the utmost.

So you can imagine my concern to have two patients recently complaining bitterly about their unhappiness with the result of their bunion surgery. Add to this my surprise at the ‘twenty-something’ who wants surgery because she doesn’t like the look of her feet and her bunion (this one is the small thickening of the metatarsal bone with no deformity), prevents her from wearing the high fashion shoes she needs for work.

What can you say to a middle-aged, active woman who decided to have her bunion (deformed type) corrected, but after three months can only wear trainers with the toe cut out, has a swollen foot, pain and discomfort, difficulty driving, plus all the associated emotional stress? Or how do you respond to a similar woman who is now in constant pain and has had altered her walking style because the foot is rigid at the big toe joint?

To the best of my knowledge the procedures were technically successful and there is no deformity anymore. In addition we all react differently to a surgical “assault” and time does allow better healing. Also, there are numerous variations of operations and techniques available for bunion correction surgery.

Firstly – go back to the surgeon and discuss your options.
Secondly – see if a podiatrist can assist with biomechanical correction or alignment and footwear advice.

With my 2 patients, one has had orthotics made and the other I referred to the surgeon, who has recommended further physiotherapy, with the possibility of another operation to remove the steel plate that is in the foot.

I will still refer patients who meet my criteria outlined above for consideration for surgery, because the final decision to undergo sugery is always taken by the patient. Unfortunately, there can be no absolute guarantees since the structure of each foot is so complicated.

So what to do about ‘bunions’? Is there an underlying systemic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis?

We must consider the patient’s age. Is the patient overweight? What is the biomechanical structure and function, not only of the feet but lower limbs and body? Have all possible conservative measures such as night splints, orthotics, insoles, appropriate footwear, been exhausted?

Be guided by the severity of loss of function, pain, discomfort and limitation of daily activities. Will the patient be able to adhere to all the post-operative requirements, expected by the surgeon?

Eventually, all these factors (plus others), must be seriously thought about before undergoing bunion surgery.

Andrew

Andrew has taught at the University as well as providing podiatry services in South Africa since 1977. Twice chair of the Podiatry Association of South Africa and a commentator on care of your feet on both radio and television he now works in private practice in Cape Town and Hout Bay.

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susan traub - May 5, 2009 Reply

Hi,

I used to run daily about 15 kms. Have bunions on both feet – the one being progresivly worse. Have seen a few orthaepedic surgeons. They all suggest surgery. The one surgeon Dr Saragas – was prepared to do both my feet and not straightening all my toes.
The last surgeon I saw Dr Ferreira in Pretoria -advises severe arthritis in big toe joint and all toes need to be straightened. Only the last few months has my running being affected. My foot (because the joint does not work anymore) is very sore under the arch. I am in such a quandry whether to have the op. Do you think I will ever run again. Apart from being in a cast for 3 months – my biggest concern is the running.

I am sure you are not able to comment without seeing my foot. It is bad – besides the big toe, the second toe is a hammer toe and the others are curling downwards.

    charles - January 11, 2010 Reply

    @susan traub:

    Hi Susan

    I am trying to get hold of Dr Ferreira, mentioned in your blog above, do you have any detials for me please? i belive he comes very highy reccomended for foot problems?

      Andrew - February 7, 2010 Reply

      Charles, Dr Fereirrra practices at The Little Company of Mary Hospital in Waterkloof, Pretoria.
      Andrew

    ERICA - September 26, 2012 Reply

    @susan traub:

    Hi Susan or Andrea or any other Runner,

    Please let me know how your ops and recovery went?
    Are there any post-op Comrades runners out there?

    I have now seen 2 surgeons & need to make the BIG DECISION soon!

    Please reply!
    ERICA

susan traub - May 5, 2009 Reply

I would appreciate your reply.

    Andrew - May 6, 2009 Reply

    Hi Susan,
    Have a look at the comments(my reply) on the website. If you can’t email me again.
    Andrew

    chnatell - April 10, 2010 Reply

    Hi susan, did you have the op, are you running again and howlong was your recovery, I have bunions on both feet and very nervous of have a op after reading how long the recovery takes, as I to am very active and might go nuts not being able to run or cycle@susan traub:

Andrew - May 5, 2009 Reply

Susan,You are faced with the recurring problem facing people with bunions – to cut or not! Your have consulted 2 highly respected specialist foot surgeons so that you have a good idea of your options. Whether you will still be able to run depends largely on the technique used and what range of movement the surgeons leave you with. You need to ask. However, firstly you must ask “what caused the bunions?” I assume you have what we also call hallux valgus so they are significant. Secondly, have you exhausted your conservative options? Thirdly, what type of arthritis? My guess is osteo-arthritis. Fourthly,(Don’t answer this one!) How old are you?
Remember that surgery is the last resort.

Thembi - March 17, 2010 Reply

I have very painful bunions , the one on my right foot it is so painfull the Dr suggested that it should be removed. There are also pains under the second toe when my shoes are on they pain is needdle like pain it is so bad i cannot walk properly and i love beautiful shoes , pls help

    Andrew - May 9, 2010 Reply

    Hi Thembi,
    Your Dr is probably right! If you are in such pain then surgery should be considered, BUT just make sure that you have tried all the alternatives and when/if you see a Surgeon, make sure that he/she is a foot specialist and is able to explain not only the operation, but also how long the recovery period is and what you can and cannot do!
    Those needle pains might be caused by a pinched nerve and that needs to be confirmed. Perhaps you should have an Ultrasound Scan of your foot.
    Finally, you might still not be able to wear beautiful shoes, so get well-informed.

    Good luck
    Andrew

Avasha - June 25, 2010 Reply

Hi Andrew,

I have a bunion on my left foot. which is very sore.
I’ve tried the bunion pads, it felt better but halfway through the day it acts up again.
My foot is fine insoft shoes.
I’ve read up a little on bunion treatment and i’m keen to buy a splinter.
Where can i find 1 in South Africa?

    Andrew - July 11, 2010 Reply

    Hello Avasha
    Find the address of an Orthotist/Prosthetist in your area.
    They will supply and fit OR get help from a podiatrist OR phone 011 726 6363 and ask Lauretta to give you some names.

    Regards
    Andrew

Thembi - July 12, 2010 Reply

monring Dr Andrew,

I am finalyy going for surgery tomorrow I hope I will be better after six weeks, the bunions has affected me so much such that I can only wear sleepers even at work because shoes make my feet sore.

I need all the luck

Kind regards

Thembi

    Andrew - July 24, 2010 Reply

    Hi Thembi
    How’s it going? Are you managing to keep weight off the foot? Do you want to tell us what it has been like?

    Wishing you all the best for a “bunion-free” future!

    Andrew

Karin - July 16, 2010 Reply

Hi all, I have had my bunion removed from my left foot by Dr Ferreira, have completed my 2 weeks flat on my back in bed and about to have my plaster changed.
I can honestly say, that although I have experienced some discomfort and swelling, the pain has been minimal. I’ve only had painkillers on 4 occassions and I don’t have a very high pain threshold. I am an extremely active person, but I’m taking this enforced rest period in my stride, after all, it was my choice to have this operation, I’m NOT ill.
should you be wondering whether you should have this operation, I can only tell you that it is totally bearable.

    Andrew - July 24, 2010 Reply

    Well done Karin. Great discipline to REST! As you know , I think many of the problems/disappointments associated with bunion surgery come from the difficulty of doing what the surgeon wants you to after the operation.

    I wish every success and look forward to the following episodes on your road to recovery!

    Andrew

Mr Jay - August 18, 2010 Reply

Hi Andrew

I have had bunion surgery about two years ago. I had a bunion on my left foot since the age of 13. I did the operation when I was 22

I feel that there is a bunion still on my big toe, my big toe has a bump like how the bunion was previously. Do you think its possible recurrence?

Is it possible to minimal incision bunion procedure compared to conventional hospital surgery?

    Andrew - September 19, 2010 Reply

    Dear Mr Jay
    What a difficult question! I really can’t be certain, but go and get an opinion from a foot surgeon and then YOU DECIDE if the inconvenience, pain etc., is worth another op.
    Look at your foot wear and possibly after a biomechanical assessment you could be OK with wearing an orthotic.
    Minimal incision surgery is more an American ‘thing’ than SA, but it might be a possibility to have the prominence removed. Remember that in my opinion there is usually a need for post-op orthotics or support to maintain the foot in its best functional position.

    Regards
    Andrew

Jackie - September 17, 2010 Reply

Hello everyone. I’m very nervous of having the surgery. Firstly, i need a really good doctor. I am trying to find Dr Ferreira that you speak of, please send info if possible? Also, how are you Thembi?

    Andrew - September 19, 2010 Reply

    Hi Jackie
    Dr Fereirra is at the Little Company of Mary, Waterkloof, Pretoria. Long wait for an appointment.
    Dr N Saragas is also a specialist foot surgeon at the Linksfield Clinic, Johannesburg.

    Andrew

Jane - November 30, 2010 Reply

Hi,
I had bunions removed from both feet at the age of 16 (in those days it was plaster up to the knees for 6 months and pins all over my feet). During the surgery the doc found and removed a number of benign grows on several bones on my feet as well as straighting my big toes.
Now, well over 25 years later I have bunions (they are not painful), but on top of the joint of my big toe on the one foot I have an extremely painful boney growth.
I am not a slave to shoe fashion, I don’t wear pointed toes etc but at this stage if anything touches it (eg hem of jeans), it is extremely painful.
I guess I’ll have to brave seeing a doctor about it….

    Andrew - January 4, 2011 Reply

    Jane, there are many reasons for your foot to be so sensitive. The obvious answer is to see a foot surgeon. Before you do that visit a podiatrist and see what the actual condition is. i.e. get an accurate diagnosis. It may be that all you need is to protect the ‘bump’ with one of the various polymer gel devices available. As stated many times before: surgery should be the last option after all the conservative measure have been exhausted!

    Regards

    Andrew

Sarah - January 16, 2011 Reply

I had my bunions removed in October 2010. I didn’t have to lie on my back for two weeks or have plaster. My feet were bandaged and I was back up on my feet after a few days. I had mild discomfort and am completely happy with the results. I had a fantastic orthopaedic surgeon Dr Gavin O’Brien who operates from Rosebank Clinic. I can highly recommend him!

    Andrew - February 8, 2011 Reply

    Sarah, great to hear a success story. You show the benefit of going to a specialist foot surgeon. Look after those new feet!

    Andrew

    Chantell - January 11, 2012 Reply

    @Sarah:

    hello Sarah – i would like to know how long you waited for an appointment to Dr O’Brien? – i am trying to get in with Dr Saragas and can only see him end of March – i NEED to have this surgery by March so that it falls within the public holidays ;o(

Sune - February 14, 2011 Reply

Good Morning to all!!
I’m considering going to Dr Riaan Oekkerman at Flora Clinic. Have you guys heard of him, can you recommend him??
My right big toe is very bad. Been like this since primary school. I had all the shoe inserts etc, but nothing helped. Finally noticed this weekend after a wedding that I need to do something about it.

    Andrew - May 24, 2011 Reply

    Hello Sune, what happened to the toe-nail?
    Andrew

Tanya - February 15, 2011 Reply

Morning dr Andrew. I had an op on an ingown toenail about 8 years ago. The toenail looks dreadfull! On one side of the nail there is a piece of nail growing upward, and the nailbed is very small. It looks the opposite of my other big toe’s nail and I cannot wear open shoes without having a false nail & some acrylic done on the nail. All sorts of dust, sand & other filth gets in under that nail. It’s been such a long time now – it just wont grow correctly. I want to have it operated & fixed again, as well as the other nail, so they can look the same – but I am so scared. Dr Andrew, will a podiatrist be the correct dr to consult & can it be fixed?
Regards,
Tanya

    Andrew - May 24, 2011 Reply

    Tanya,
    What a story, sounds terrible. Almost as bad as me not replying to you! What is th situation with your nail now?

    Andrew

Miss B - April 21, 2011 Reply

@ Sarah,
Please give me details of your doctor anyone recommend a good doctor in Durban – the last thing i want is to go through this operation and then have them back – they have been my nightmare from since i can remember – im hoping to have mine done by the end of this year if all goes well.

talia - May 16, 2011 Reply

Hi Andrew

I consulted Dr O Brien today about my bunions, the left one being a lot worse than the right. He suggested I do one first , then the other in a few years because I have small kids and cant be in bed for six weeks. I also consulted Dr Saragas last year and he suggested both at the same time and a slightly more complicated procedure. Which surgeon would you recommend, I preferred Dr O brien.
Thank you

    Andrew - May 24, 2011 Reply

    Hi Talia, so what happened next?
    Andrew

    Andrew - May 24, 2011 Reply

    Dear Talia; OUCH!!!! Only you can decide that one. However, you must also realise that bunion surgery needs the appropriate time for recovery. Not being able to plan for recovery is the greatest cause of disappointment in my opinion. Get exact details of what the post-op rest period entails; get your family involved; hir some extra help for a short time. If you don’t then you probably wont be happy with the results.

Charlene - August 12, 2011 Reply

I had bilateral bunion surgery 9 weeks ago with Dr O Brien and I just wanted to let everyone who is worrying about having a bunion operation know….that it is really not as bad as you think!! I’ve battled for years and have tried non surgical treatments but nothing helped. I’m so glad I was brave enough to take this step! I consulted two other doctors but liked dr o brien the most & am so happy with the results already!! Cannot wait to go shoe shopping now 🙂

Good luck to those following my footsteps
Charlene

Sumayya - September 21, 2011 Reply

Hi
I have discovered a splint called the halufix on the net and was wondering if you could tell me if it’s a good splint to buy or Alternatively what is available in south Africa that could work for bunion pain?

    Andrew - April 3, 2012 Reply

    Sumayya, I don’t know about the Halufix, if it is available in SA, the person to ask is an Orthotist/Prosthetist, as they will sell and fit them. Firstly you need to have a Biomechanical Examination doen by a podiatrist, this will help to identify the cause of your foot problems and suggest a possible treatment plan.

    Andrew

Lorry - October 24, 2011 Reply

I am 63 years old and still working. Is this to late in my life for a bunion operations. I was thinking of going to Dr Gavin O’Brien. Will you recommend this?

    Andrew - April 2, 2012 Reply

    Dear Lorry
    Your choice. Just remember to follow all the post-operation instructions TO THE LETTER!!!

    Andrew

Roanne Towers - November 18, 2011 Reply

Hi There

I have just had a bunion on my right foot removed by Dr Gavin O’Brien. Surgery was at Rosebank Clinic. The staff there were fantastic! The pain is bearable although I’m taking painkillers every 3 hours or so. Although I was encouraged to walk on my healing foot, I’ve decided to use crutches and rest the foot for as long as possible.

Having seen doctors in Linksfield, and Sunninghill, Dr O’Brien surpasses them all in many aspects – humility and a gracious bedside manner coming up tops.

After putting of having the op for several years, I’m glad it’s finally over.

Melanie Petersen - December 4, 2011 Reply

What an awesome article and true to every word. I am in my second week after having my bunions removed by surgery, my story is a bitter-sweet one and for the interest of this forum, promise to revisit this site weekly to give updates if that will help. I had my surgery on 21 Nov and was very scared, my bunions being genetic. (I am 37)I did not listen to doctor’s orders and did things are was not meant to do and was re-admitted as my wound went septic. I am now feeling so much better and had an awesome surgeon in Cape Town. I am listening well, but it is very difficult with a 2 year old and would encourage moms to wait until their kids are bigger and a bit independent and that you evaluate your support structure at home. My cut looks beautiful and my feet a bit swollen but continue using the ice packs, I have also been given post-operative shoes and splints to wear (Hallufix) which are meant to ease and speed up the recovery. All the best and remember, this operation takes a huge commitment and will work, if you’re committed

    Andrew - April 2, 2012 Reply

    This is really helpful. Although everone is different, there is real experience here and evidence for really making the effort to ‘take doctor’s advice.
    Thanks for this.
    Andrew

Lorna - January 3, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,

I’m now 41 years old and had a bunion operation 20 years ago – can I honestly say it was the biggest mistake I have made! Yes so I was 20 yrs old having discomfort and pain and also wanting to have nice looking feet! I played tennis, an athlete and did aerobics. After the operation it was not the same again – the toes cant flex properly as the big toes movement is restricted. Apparently what happened is that the muscles contracted the wrong way, forcing my arches to collapse, and the balls of both feet have protruded causing much discomfort and massive callous – the bone on the big toes were shortened too much so my tri-balancing function is incorrect and recently I cant walk properly on my right foot. I’m thinking of going to see Dr Ferreira in Pretoria or getting orthotics? what’s your advice?

    Andrew - April 2, 2012 Reply

    Dear Lorna
    From your description, I would recommend that you consult a specialist foot surgeon. I suspect that orthotics might help and often the surgeons ask whether you have tried all other options before committing to surgery. However, in your case, skills, procedures and knowledge have improved over the past 20 years, that the surgeon is probably the approprite choice.

    Andrew

lia - April 17, 2012 Reply

Hi,

I was birn with a big foot. Now my left foot is bigger than my right.
My big toe on my left foot is huge and the second from there is long, my actual foot is very big. I dont know what the cause or problem is.

lia - April 17, 2012 Reply

I meant Born – sorry.

When I was born my feet were normal, but somehow as I was growing up, this left foot just began to expand, yet the right leg and foot is perfect.
Now I have one big foot with 2 big toes and one foot that is perfect.

    Andrew - April 17, 2012 Reply

    Hi Lia.
    this is most interesting. (for a podiatrist!!). There is some recognised conditions where the features that you describe exist. Often asociated with growth & hormone changes. You don’t have to answer this question, but is there also a difference between your upper limbs as well? Please contact me direct on 011 726 6363 and we can discuss it and possibly get you assessed by an appropriate specialist. There are lots of questions to ask associated with your age and general health. Be assured there is nothing sinister, but expert professional advice is required.
    Regards, Andrew

Graeme - April 19, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,
Can you recommend any good surgeons to perform a bunion removal in the Durban area.
Rgds.

    Andrew - April 22, 2012 Reply

    Graeme, I suggest you contact a podiatrist in Durban – try Nelfrie Kemp at the Umhlanga Hospital. Andrew.

Andrea Eaton - May 2, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,

Who is the best surgeon to go to in JHB/PTA? I have bunions on both feet and would like them to be removed at the same time, they are genetic as my mother had them and they have also gotten bigger due to shoes. My mom had her’s removed when she was younger and told me how painful it was, however I have heard that there is a new laser surgery that can alleviate the painful procedure? who does it in SA and is it better or worse? Please advise.

Thanks

Andrea

    Andrew - May 8, 2012 Reply

    Hi Andrea. Please phone the practice on 011 726 6363 and I will answer your question. There are many ‘peripheral’ considerations, such as age, whether you are involved in sport, your general health, previous surgery, etc,.Andrew

    Erica Leppan - August 31, 2012 Reply

    @Andrea Eaton:

    Hi Andrea,

    I have just read your comment on Andrew Clarke’s website. I am in a similar position to you and am dying to know if you had the op – both feet at once?, who you went to? and how those feet are now?

    My goal is to be able to run another Comrades and walk bare foot without the balls of the feet feeling like I am walking on bone!

    I had a consultation with Dr Ferriera on Monday. He says I must have the op and that the 2nd toe of my right foot could dislocate at any time as the bone is lifting above the joint !!! A bit scary as I am very active and still running short distances.

    I look forward to hearing from you or anyone else who would like to comment.

    Thank You
    Erica L.

Ingrid - May 15, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,

I have been advised by a podiatrist, to consult a surgeon, regarding problems on both my feet. One often hears horror stories, so I’m a bit apprehensive. I’ve read some good reviews, regarding dr. O’Brien, so have made an appointment to see him. I’m confident all will go well, as my feet have been affecting my back as well! (bad posture, due to walking ‘off centre’)

Regards
Ingrid

    Andrew - May 20, 2012 Reply

    Hi ingrid. Good luck, you are consulting a recognised specialist foot surgeon.
    Andrew@Ingrid:

Craig - May 28, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew
My wife has complained for around a year with her feet and since I lost my business we have not had medical aid and now its getting a bit too painful to wait until we can afford it again.
Is there anything you could recomend or someone that could help my wife that would be affordable. i would take her to a specialist but unfortunately our financial position prevents this although we are both working we cant afford it, I am also petrified of going to a government hospital. please is there anything I can do for her.

    Andrew - June 10, 2012 Reply

    Dear Craig, what a dilema. One option is to visit the clinic on the Doornfontein Campus of UJ. They will be able to assess & advise you on possible treatments. Another option, if you can, make an appointment at one of the Academic hospitals i.e. attached to a University Medical Faculty, where the Dept of Orthopaedics will have surgeons who operate on feet. always remember to ask questions about the procedure and recovery time. Or contact a local podiatrist & ask for advice or an appointment so that you can have your wife assessed with a view to getting conservative treatment.
    Andrew

Tatiana - August 21, 2012 Reply

Hi Dr Andrew
i am a 19 year old female living in polokwane.
i have bunions on both my feet.
growing up wasnt easy coz i always wore closed shoes or pumps and could never wear sandals due to my bunions. I was always embarrased. I do have nice toes but they always covered up. Is surgeory neccesary and how much would it cost? And do you know of an foot surgeons around polokwane. The sooner i get the surgeory the better.

    Andrew - September 26, 2012 Reply

    Hi Tatiana, I think you should first go to see a podiatrist in Polokwane(Pietersburg), there are some in town. Get a thorough assessment and that will help you decide on the way forward. Andrew

Melanie Petersen - September 26, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,

It has been 11 months since my op and i am suffering with major calluses underneath both my feet – is this normal?

thanks

    Andrew - October 29, 2012 Reply

    Hello Melanie,
    I posted a reply but it seems to have disappeared. Callus develops due to increased local pressure. You need to see a podiatrist to assess what changes have taken place in the alignment & weight distribution of your feet.
    Andrew@Melanie Petersen:

Jackie Jenkin - October 1, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew,

You seem to be the person to give good advice. I am scheduled for surgery next week Monday 8 Oct 2012 with Dr Saragas at Linksfield Clinic to have a bunion removed from my left foot which I have had since childhood, and I am aslo having 2 neuromas removed from each foot (measuring in at 1,5 centimeters each). According to a Bev Roos of the Sports Clinic in Rosebank, surgery is usually recommended if neuromas are already 1cm long, therefore surgery seems to be the only option. I have been in constant discomfort since January this year (with very slight symptoms occuring in the the last 5-6 years) but the neuromas reared their ugly head in January when I started doing a lot of walking for exercise. It has been especially painful when wearing closed shoes. Would you say that Dr Saragas is the surgeon to trust to do a successful surgery? I realise that there are no guarantees but I’d like to have peace of mind at the same time that I’m not making a mistake.

    Andrew - October 29, 2012 Reply

    hi Jackie.
    Can’t really comment on “who is the best or right surgeon”, but you have been to a specialist foot surgeon. My apologies for missing your comment on the website. How did the surgery go ?
    Andrew@Jackie Jenkin:

sam - October 8, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew

I have extremely large bunions on both my feet which are sometimes very painfull (like a throbbing kind of pain) even without wearing closed shoes sometimes i also get pain in my left foot in the second and third toe when i walk, depending on the type of shoes that i wear, note i am not one for high heals i wear flattish shoes, i also have bone growth on the bridge of my right foot due to a broken leg and being in a cast for 11 months, a cousin went to Dr Saragas and had her bunions removed around 4-5months ago and she highly recommended him, but i am still uncertain. please advise.

    Sheryl - October 22, 2012 Reply

    @sam:
    Hi Sam,
    How did the op go and what is your feeling as to how the prodecure went. Are you happy with the outcome, and how is the pain? Are you immobile and still lying down? I would be interested to hear how your cousin’s op went as the 4-5 months recovery would give me a better idea as to the success of the operation. Please advise.

Neil - October 18, 2012 Reply

Hi Andrew

I have a painful bunion on my left foot which has resulted in swelling of my big toe and foot and most times I am unable to put on a shoe. I have consulted my GP and he has referred to Dr Chris Narramore. I am a 51 year old male, a teacher who is on his feet most times. I am active and also attend gym, a bit apprehensive what do you suggest.

Regards

Neil

    Andrew - November 1, 2012 Reply

    Hi Neil. Obviously I would suggest that you consult a podiatrist first. But such a problem foot sounds like an Orthopaedic Surgeon is appropriate. I hope that you have had a diagnosis of the actual cause of the swelling. If surgery is suggested, you should be able to continue with your usual activities after rehabilitation.
    regards
    Andrew@Neil:

Gerda - September 20, 2013 Reply

I have seen the new procedures for bunyons on The Doctors. Is it available in S.A.?

    Andrew - January 5, 2014 Reply

    hi there. I’m not aware of what these procedures are. maybe try the orthopaedic foot surgeons website.

Julie - October 16, 2013 Reply

I am 73 yrs old and am suffering with severe pain from a bone on top of my left foot. I am unable to wear decent shoes and when I drive my car I have to use my heel on the clutch. I also have a bunion on the same foot. My quality of life is zero with all the pain I have in this foot. I live in Pretoria East and would like to know what you suggest.

Thank you!

    Andrew - January 5, 2014 Reply

    hello there. I suggest that you pay a visit to a local podiatrist to try to get a diagnosis of your problem.although it sounds very much like osteoarthritis someone need to examine your foot carefully.

rozanne - October 27, 2013 Reply

Hi, can anyone recommend a good surgeon in cape town? I have bunions on both my feet and tailor bunions on the outside of my feet. Unfortunately my bunions are genetic and causes me tremendous discomfort. No shoe fits and the ones that fit with effort makes blisters on my inner and outer bunion. Any advise will be appreciated.

    Andrew - January 5, 2014 Reply

    dr Hastings is at one of the Mediclinics; I think he specialises in foot surgery.
    Andrew

Melanie Adams Petersen - January 5, 2014 Reply

Hi Rozan, I used Dr. Crane at Cape Medi Clinic – he is an awesome doctor.

Good luck

Lyn - February 19, 2014 Reply

Hi, i’ll be doing my bunion sugery with Dr Bhutt at Garden City. Is he a good otho surgeon, im a bit skeptic though. Has anybody had this surgery done through him before? Are the scars bad? I love wearing high heels and cannot imagine not being able to wear them again. Will this be the case should i forego this surgery? Im so nervous and afraid that i may regret this later on? Any advise will be helpful.
thanks guys

    Andrew - June 2, 2014 Reply

    hi Lyn: how did the surgery go?

Melanie - July 3, 2014 Reply

Hi Andrew,

My daughter had surgery to remove bunions on both feet 2 and a half years ago.
She has been having discomfort in the left foot and went back to the doctor who told her all the cartilage has worn away and that she needs a fusion of the big toe which will mean a few months out of action.She is anxious for another op.Do you recommend a fusion or are there other options?

    Andrew - October 1, 2014 Reply

    Dear Melanie

    My sincere appologies for my delayed response: probably you have solved the dilemma by now. A quick answer is to get a second opinion from another specialist foot surgeon. You could of course see a podiatrist to assess your daughter’s foot biomechanics, because we often find that although the bunion is corrected insufficient attention has been paid to the overall foot function. However, a fusion of the joint will usually remove pain and although walking style does change, the problem should be changed.

    Kind Regards

    Andrew

moses - August 17, 2014 Reply

how much does the op cost??

    Andrew - October 1, 2014 Reply

    Hi Moses

    You will have to check with doctor. Regards Andrew

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