Bunionectomy Surgery & Treatment in Schaumburg, IL
Bunionectomy
A bunion is a painful, bony bump that develops on the side of the big toe joint. Bunions form when the big toe is forced into an unnatural position, causing the bone and tissues at the base of the joint to shift out of place. If left untreated, this condition can lead to skin irritation, skin breakdown, and arthritis — and will only worsen over time.
If you're struggling with painful bunion symptoms, our foot and ankle specialists are here to help you find the relief you deserve:
Don't let a bunion keep you from the activities you love. Our team can assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate pain and restore proper alignment. Request an appointment to take the first step toward recovery.
What Is a Bunionectomy? How and Why It's Performed
A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure in which portions of bone are removed, and the bones of the foot and toe are realigned to eliminate the bony bump on the side of the foot. Because bunions do not resolve on their own — and will progressively worsen without addressing the underlying causes — surgery is recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.
The specific surgical technique used depends on the severity of the deformity:
- For Mild to Moderate Bunions, the procedure may involve shaving the bony prominence and repairing the soft tissue around the big toe joint. This approach is appropriate when the deviation of the toe is relatively minor and bone realignment is not required.
- For Severe Bunions, a more involved technique is typically recommended. This procedure involves cutting and realigning the metatarsal bone to correct the angle of deviation of the big toe. The repositioned bones are then stabilized using screws, pins, plates, or wires to maintain proper alignment during healing.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our Foot & Ankle Care Center offers the best, least invasive options available to relieve your pain and symptoms, with convenient locations in Bartlett, Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove Village, and Schaumburg. Our team will work alongside you throughout your surgery and provide a personalized rehabilitation plan to ensure a healthy and efficient recovery.
Foot & Ankle Surgeons at BOS
Meet the podiatric foot and ankle surgeons who diagnose and treat bunions, including bunionectomy surgery, for patients across the Barrington Orthopedic Specialists network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes a Bunion?+
Bunions develop when prolonged pressure forces the big toe out of its natural alignment, causing the joint at the base of the toe to shift outward over time. The most common contributing factors include wearing shoes that are too tight, too narrow, or that crowd the toes — such as high heels or pointed-toe shoes. Bunions also have a hereditary component, as foot structure and mechanics that predispose someone to bunion formation can be inherited. Other contributing factors include flat feet, abnormal gait patterns, and certain inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
What Are the Symptoms of a Bunion?+
The most recognizable symptom is a visible bony bump on the outer edge of the foot at the base of the big toe. Additional symptoms include pain or soreness at the joint — particularly when walking or wearing shoes — swelling, redness, and inflammation around the affected joint, restricted movement of the big toe, and the development of corns or calluses where the toes rub against one another. In advanced cases, the big toe may overlap or underlap the second toe, and arthritis of the joint may develop.
What Are the Treatment Options for a Bunion?+
Treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and the degree of pain and functional limitation it causes. Nonsurgical options — which are typically tried first — include switching to wider, more supportive footwear, using bunion pads or orthotics to redistribute pressure, applying ice to reduce inflammation, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy exercises may also help. When conservative measures no longer provide sufficient relief, a bunionectomy may be recommended to surgically correct the deformity and restore proper alignment.
What Is Recovery Like After a Bunionectomy?+
Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure performed. For simpler soft-tissue procedures, patients may be able to bear weight in a surgical shoe relatively quickly. For procedures involving bone cutting and realignment, a period of limited weight-bearing — often with a boot or cast — is typically required for several weeks while the bone heals. Most patients can expect a full recovery within 6 to 12 weeks, though complete healing may take several months for more involved procedures. Your care team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan to guide your recovery and help you return to normal activity as safely and efficiently as possible.
When Should I See a Doctor About My Bunion?+
You should seek medical attention if your bunion is causing persistent pain that interferes with daily activities or walking, if you are having difficulty finding footwear that accommodates the deformity, or if the bunion appears to be progressing in size or causing the big toe to drift toward the other toes. Early evaluation allows our specialists to monitor the condition and recommend the most conservative effective treatment before the deformity becomes more severe or leads to secondary problems such as arthritis or toe overlap.