Treatment Guide
Minimally Invasive Bunion & Hammertoe Surgery
State-of-the-art surgical correction through tiny incisions for faster recovery and less pain.
Overview
Minimally invasive foot surgery (MIS) represents the most advanced approach to correcting common structural deformities such as bunions (hallux valgus) and hammertoes. Rather than the traditional open techniques that require large incisions, extensive soft tissue dissection, and prolonged recovery, MIS uses specialized instruments inserted through incisions as small as 2-3 millimeters - typically under real-time fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance. Dr. Golan precisely reshapes the bone through these tiny portals, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues, minimizing post-operative pain, and dramatically shortening recovery time. Patients are typically able to walk immediately after surgery in a post-operative shoe, and return to normal footwear in weeks rather than months. Scar formation is minimal and the cosmetic outcome is outstanding.
Benefits
- Incisions of only 2-3 mm versus 5-8 cm for traditional open surgery
- Significantly reduced post-operative pain and swelling
- Walk the same day - no prolonged non-weight-bearing
- Return to normal shoes typically within 6-10 weeks
- Minimal scarring and excellent cosmetic outcome
- Lower infection risk due to smaller wound size
- Correction of deformity and restoration of proper alignment
What to Expect
Prior to surgery, Dr. Golan will obtain standing X-rays and develop a detailed surgical plan tailored to the severity and type of your deformity. The procedure is performed as an outpatient under local anesthesia with sedation - you go home the same day. Small incisions allow specialized burrs and rasps to reshape the bone under live X-ray guidance. The corrected bone is held in position with small screws or sutures, and your foot is dressed in a soft bandage. You will wear a post-operative shoe and can walk immediately. Regular follow-up appointments track healing over 8-12 weeks. Most patients return to athletic shoes by 6-8 weeks and to sports or full activity by 3-4 months.
Who Is a Candidate?
Candidates include patients with painful bunions that have not responded to conservative measures (wider shoes, orthotics, padding), hammertoes causing pain or difficulty with footwear, and patients seeking the shortest possible recovery time. Dr. Golan will evaluate X-rays to determine whether your deformity is suitable for a minimally invasive approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my bunion come back after surgery?
Recurrence is uncommon when the underlying deformity is properly corrected and appropriate post-operative footwear is maintained. Dr. Golan's technique addresses the root cause of the deformity, not just the cosmetic bump.
Is minimally invasive surgery better than traditional surgery?
For appropriate candidates, MIS offers equivalent or superior deformity correction with significantly less pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars. Dr. Golan will advise whether MIS is the right approach for your specific case.
How soon can I drive after surgery?
If the procedure is performed on your right foot, driving is restricted until cleared at your follow-up. Left foot procedures in automatic-transmission vehicles may allow earlier return to driving. Dr. Golan will provide specific guidance.
Ready to get started?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Golan to find out if minimally invasive bunion & hammertoe surgery is the right treatment for you.
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