Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery in San Antonio

What is Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery?

Minimally invasive bunion surgery—also called keyhole surgery—is a technique used to correct bunion deformities with smaller incisions and less tissue disruption than traditional bunion surgery. Unlike traditional bunion surgery, which involves larger incisions, this approach uses minimally invasive techniques to realign the big toe bone through small incisions. This method aims to reduce postoperative pain, minimize scarring, and shorten recovery time.

A bunion is an enlargement of bone or soft tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe, resulting in the formation of a bump. The bone that joins the big toe with the first metatarsal bone thickens and enlarges, tightening the tendons.  This, in turn, causes the base of the big toe to angle outward, resulting in a painful deformity.

The main objective of minimally invasive bunion surgery is to realign the joint, correct the deformity, and to relieve pain and discomfort with minimal complications.

Who is a Good Candidate for Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery?

You may be a candidate for minimally invasive bunion correction if you have:

  • Ongoing foot pain that affects your daily activities

  • Swelling around your big toe that doesn’t improve with rest or medication

  • A visible bunion deformity—where the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes

  • Trouble bending or straightening the big toe

  • Limited relief from changing footwear or using over-the-counter medications

Our orthopedic specialists can evaluate your condition and determine if this approach is right for you.

Preparation for Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Before surgery, we’ll perform a full evaluation, including:

  • Medical history review

  • Blood work and foot X-rays

  • Medication and allergy screening

To help your body heal well:

  • Let your doctor know about any medications or supplements you take

  • You may need to stop smoking before surgery, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of complications

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery in San Antonio

Procedure for Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery  

Minimally invasive bunion surgery is usually done as a same-day surgery with ankle-block anesthesia that numbs only the foot, so that you are awake throughout the procedure. The procedure will involve the following steps:

Several small incisions are made to access the bone around the bunion. Specialized instruments are used to remove the abnormal bone growth and release soft tissues, allowing for realignment of the big toe joint. Depending on the severity of the bunion, portions of bone, ligament, and tendon may be adjusted. The incisions are closed with stitches, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Postoperative Care and Instructions

Most patients recover faster after minimally invasive bunionectomy compared to traditional surgery. Many patients can put weight on their foot immediately following the procedure using a surgical shoe. However, returning to normal activities may take 6 to 8 weeks, and resuming sports activities might require 10 to 12 weeks. Adherence to all scheduled follow-up appointments is crucial to monitor your progress.

Here’s how recovery typically looks:

  • You may be able to put weight on your foot right away using a surgical boot

  • Elevate your foot and use ice to reduce swelling

  • Pain can be managed with medication

  • Your surgeon may recommend orthotics or a special shoe

  • You’ll begin walking and doing exercises based on your recovery plan

  • Recovery from minimally invasive bunion surgery usually takes 6–8 weeks for normal activities, and 10–12 weeks for full return to sports

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Some of the benefits of minimally invasive bunion surgery include:

  • Smaller incisions and less scarring

  • Reduced pain and swelling

  • Shorter recovery time

  • Faster return to work and daily life

  • Improved mobility in the big toe

Risks and Complications of Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Minimally invasive bunion surgery is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, there may be some minor risks and complications, such as:

  • Pain

  • Discomfort when walking

  • Swelling

  • Infection

  • Anesthetic complications

  • Damage to nerves and blood vessels

  • Blood clots

 FAQs About Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

  • Recovery from minimally invasive bunion surgery typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for daily activities. Athletes or active individuals may need 10 to 12 weeks before resuming high-impact sports. Recovery time varies based on the severity of the bunion and the patient’s overall health.

  • Yes. In many cases, patients are allowed to put weight on their foot immediately after surgery using a surgical shoe or boot. Your surgeon will give you specific guidance based on your condition and procedure.

  • Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools to correct bunion deformities, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue. In contrast, traditional bunion surgery typically involves larger incisions, more tissue disruption, and a longer recovery time. Patients who choose a minimally invasive bunionectomy often experience less pain, reduced swelling, and a quicker return to daily activities.

  • Because minimally invasive techniques use tiny incisions, the resulting scars are much smaller and less noticeable compared to traditional bunion surgery. Most patients find the cosmetic outcome highly satisfactory, especially since the incisions are often hidden along natural skin lines or folds.

  • Many patients can return to desk work or light duties within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. If your job involves standing, walking, or physical labor, you may need 4 to 6 weeks of recovery time. Your surgeon will advise you on when it’s safe to put weight on your foot based on your progress and job demands.

  • In many cases, formal physical therapy is not required. However, your surgeon may recommend gentle range-of-motion exercises or a customized rehabilitation plan to support recovery from minimally invasive bunion surgery. These activities help restore flexibility, strength, and balance in the foot.

Our Locations

Meet Our Foot & Ankle Specialists

Foot and Ankle Specialist San Antonio
Foot and Ankle Specialist San Antonio

Shumaila Sarfani, MD

Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Specialist

Kathren Mccarty, DPM

Board-Certified Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Ready to learn more about Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery?

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery in San Antonio