Bunion Surgery Recovery Week by Week

Bunion surgery is a common solution for correcting foot deformities and relieving chronic pain. But recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Knowing what to expect each week can help reduce stress and prevent setbacks. Here is what to expect with bunion surgery recovery, week by week.

Week 1: Rest and Initial Healing

Immediately after bunion surgery, your foot will be swollen and bandaged. You’ll likely wear a surgical boot or cast to protect the area. Rest is essential. Keep your foot elevated above heart level as much as possible. This reduces swelling and improves circulation.

Apply ice packs several times a day to manage discomfort. Pain medication and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to help with recovery.

Avoid putting any weight on your foot unless instructed otherwise. Use crutches or a walker to get around safely.

Week 2: Follow-Up and First Signs of Recovery

By the second week, swelling and bruising may begin to decrease. This stage marks a turning point in your bunion surgery recovery time.

So, what to expect 2 weeks after bunion surgery? You’ll likely have a follow-up visit to check on your incision and remove stitches or adjust the dressing. Your doctor may begin gentle movement exercises to prevent stiffness. But your foot will still be very fragile and not ready for pressure.

Continue icing and elevating regularly. If allowed, you may begin carefully standing or walking short distances with help.

Week 3: Starting Gentle Movement

During week three, your dressing may be replaced with a lighter bandage. The foot will still be healing, but pain may ease significantly. With your surgeon’s approval, you might start light toe exercises. These help keep joints flexible and prevent scar tissue from building up.

It’s important not to rush increasing activity. Overuse too early can delay recovery or even damage the surgical repair.

Week 4: Slow Return to Mobility

At the four-week mark, some patients are allowed to put limited weight on their foot using a protective shoe. Always follow your provider’s advice. You may be encouraged to increase activity gradually, taking a few more steps each day as tolerated.

If you work a desk job, your doctor might clear you to return with restrictions. Manual labor or prolonged standing is still discouraged.

Week 5–6: Getting Stronger

Weeks five and six typically bring increased confidence and movement. Many can walk indoors without crutches while wearing a post-op shoe. An X-ray may be taken to check how the bones are healing. Most patients continue to avoid normal footwear during this phase.

Stiffness in the joint may linger. Continue toe stretches and simple physical therapy exercises to improve range of motion.

Your doctor might begin weaning you out of the boot or surgical shoe if healing is on track. Swelling is still normal at this point.

Weeks 7–8: Gaining Independence

Swelling and pain continue to subside in weeks seven and eight. Some people begin wearing wider, cushioned shoes with orthotic support.

Your bunion surgery recovery time varies based on your health, age, and the type of bunionectomy performed. Stay patient and consistent.

If you haven’t started physical therapy yet, now is often the time. You’ll work on walking mechanics and foot strength.

Weeks 9–12: Back to Routine

By the third month, you’ll likely return to many of your regular daily activities. Short walks, driving, and errands may be comfortable again. Supportive shoes are still a must. Avoid high heels or anything that cramps your toes or puts pressure on the healing area.

Fatigue and mild swelling may still occur after a full day on your feet. Rest, elevate, and use ice as needed.

3–6 Months: Function Returns

By this point, most people experience significant improvement. Approximately 75% of patients report noticeable symptom relief by the six-month mark. You may resume low-impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, or using the elliptical machine. Running or jumping is not yet advised.

Continue physical therapy and strengthening exercises to help restore balance, alignment, and confidence in your stride.

6–12 Months: Full Recovery

Healing from bunion surgery can take up to a year, depending on the procedure and your body’s response. Most swelling resolves by six months, but some tightness, numbness, or stiffness may persist for up to 12 months post-op.

Surgeons report a satisfaction rate of around 85–90% for patients one year after surgery. Results are best when patients follow recovery instructions.

Maintaining Your Results

To protect your foot and avoid recurrence of bunions or other issues, stick to well-fitted shoes with ample toe space and good arch support. Stretch your toes and calves regularly. Avoid prolonged time in bare feet on hard surfaces.

If custom orthotics were recommended, wear them consistently. Preventive care can make a huge difference in the long term.

Tips to Support Healing

Bunion surgery recovery time can vary from patient to patient, but there are some ways to promote faster healing:

• Elevate your foot as often as possible, especially after activity
• Use ice and medication to manage swelling and inflammation
• Avoid walking barefoot, even at home
• Follow your physical therapy plan
• Wear only approved or supportive footwear

These small habits can add up to faster healing and a smoother recovery process.

Watch for Complications

Call your doctor if you experience increasing pain, unusual redness, pus, or a fever during bunion recovery. These may be signs of infection or another complication. Prompt medical attention can help prevent setbacks and ensure your recovery stays on track.

The information provided on this website, including text, graphics, images, and other materials, is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.