When a bunion needs surgery (and when it does not)

A bunion is a progressive change in the alignment of the first metatarsal and the big toe. Cosmetics bother some people. Pain and a second toe that is starting to cross bother us.

Surgery is on the table when:

- Closed shoes are a daily negotiation. - The joint is becoming stiff or arthritic. - Orthotics and wider lasts have been tried honestly. - The second toe is climbing over or hammering because the first ray has given up its job.

Surgery is not on the table because an Instagram ad said “minimally invasive” and you have a photo. Technique should follow anatomy. We perform the correction that your angles require, not the one that films well.

The forefoot surgeon fee is $1,500. Both feet is $3,000. That covers the surgeon only. It does not include anesthesia, hospital or facility fees, operating room charges, hardware, or visits before and after surgery. If we are out of network and the hospital accepts your insurance, the hospital may bill your plan. Without insurance, you arrange the facility fee with the hospital. Post-operative visits are $80 and include X-rays if needed.

If you want a second opinion on a bunion that another office already booked for surgery, bring the films. We will tell you if we agree.