| Once the decision that conservative measures are not
the solution, surgical correction can represent a fulfilling experience.
However, as a patient contemplating bunion surgery you are no given the
task of the selecting the right surgeon. Bunion surgery is
considered highly successful and proven for the reduction of pain and
disfigurement. Thus many insurance companies cover this procedure.
NOT ALL SURGEONS USE THE SAME TECHNIQUES
SURGERY PERFORMED BY ANOTHER SURGEON
Notice the scars on top of the foot. Most surgeons use the "top" of
the foot (or dorsal) incision approach for bunion and hammertoe
correction.
Dr. Lee utilizes a Restorative
Foot SurgeryTM
technique which hides the scar from the top
view.
 
Surgery performed by Dr. Lee
Note the absent of visible scars on the foot and the
appropriate amount of angular correction. This results in a cosmetically
appealing result as well as restoration of joint function.
Technical Considerations
| Before surgery:
After surgery:
 |
Surgical training and technique does vary considerably from surgeon
to surgeon. A common question asked by patients is, "How do I know
whether the doctor is doing the right thing?"
Though, a difficult questions to answer, the performance of the
bunion surgery should consider four factors:
- Cosmetic appeal.
- Correction for joint mechanics.
- Allow for Ambulation.
- Minimal injury and pain.
Cosmetic Appeal:
- Will I see the incision after the surgery?
- Are the stitches dissolvable or do they need to be removed?
- Does the screw or implant have to be removed later on?
Cosmetic incisions involves hidden placement of incision, small gauge
dissolvable sutures and use of low-injury techniques. Proper placement
and technique should produce minimal scar visibility and size.
Correction for joint mechanics:
The specific type of procedure should correct for joint mechanical
malfunctions. Otherwise, jamming in the joint, slow return to activities
and return of the bunion will occur.
Allow for Ambulation:
If possible, the surgical correction should allow early resumption of
walking. However, if an extensive bunion correction is performed
casting no no bearing of weight may be required.
Minimal injury and pain:
Is the surgical technique done under minimal injury and are there
steps to ensure the post-operative pain is minimized?
Dr. David Lee's bunion surgeries follow all these guidelines and
considerations. |
