A bunion appears as a knobby bump on the base of the big toe. It’s caused by an alignment shift of the big toe bone, forcing it to lean toward the second toe instead of pointing straight. In many cases, a bunion forms so gradually that most individuals don’t notice it until it starts to hurt or they have trouble fitting into shoes. However, over time, many people experience increased swelling and pain, as well as decreased mobility.
If you’re dealing with this condition, don’t hesitate to consult an experienced podiatrist to learn about the best bunion removal options. At Khosroabadi Institute, we offer AMI-BUNION®, an advanced procedure that may be the right solution for you.
What Causes a Bunion?
Here are the most common reasons for bunions:
- A foot that flattens too much
- Poorly-fitting shoes
- Joint damage
- Arthritis
- Genetics
Bunion pain can initially be treated with wider shoes, custom-made shoe inserts, bunion shields, corticosteroid injections, and other non-invasive techniques. But unfortunately, a bunion won’t go away by itself. If the pain is severe or your gait is off to avoid putting pressure on the big toe, you require professional removal to return to normal activities.
With years of experience and success as a foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Alireza Khosroabadi understands how challenging it is not to be able to do the activities you love because of chronic foot pain. Dr. K. developed AMI-BUNION® as a minimally-invasive procedure so his patients would have less pain and faster recovery time. Traditional bunion removal surgeries can take up to three months to heal. AMI-BUNION® is an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day.
Advanced Bunion Removal Technique: How AMI-BUNION® Works
Dr. K. makes a small incision—usually 5–10 mm—and relocates the big toe bone to realign the joint and correct this deformity. Dr. K may also reposition the surrounding tendons and ligaments to provide more stability to the alignment.
After your surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room. Once your vital signs—blood pressure, pulse, breathing—are stable, you can go home. Because the incision is so small, there’s minimal pain, swelling, and scarring after surgery. Almost all patients walk without crutches after the procedure, with some patients returning to work in as little as one week. Overall recovery time is approximately two-to-four weeks.
Curious as to how AMI-BUNION® might work for you? Review these before and after bunion removal pictures of patients’ successful treatment, then arrange for a consultation so Dr. K. can assess your condition and answer any questions you might have.