Bunions can be a painful and frustrating problem, often causing discomfort and limiting mobility. Traditionally, bunion surgery has been associated with large incisions, significant recovery time, and permanent screws or wires left inside the foot. However, Dr. Kevin Lam and his team at the Family Foot & Leg Center have developed an advanced, minimally invasive approach to bunionectomy that delivers impressive results with less downtime.
Recently, a patient returned for a six-month follow-up after undergoing this minimally invasive bunionectomy. She was so pleased with the outcome on her first foot that she requested the same procedure for her other foot. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this surgery so effective and why patients are experiencing such positive results.
What Makes It Minimally Invasive?
One of the standout features of this bunionectomy is the small incision used. Unlike traditional bunion surgery, which often requires a large incision on the top of the foot, Dr. Lam’s minimally invasive technique involves a small cut on the side of the foot. This minimizes scarring and reduces recovery time, making it a more patient-friendly option.
Another key difference is the use of temporary wires instead of permanent screws or implants. In traditional bunion surgery, screws are often left in the foot to hold the bones in place during healing. In this procedure, the wires are removed in the office once healing has progressed, leaving nothing behind inside the foot.
Impressive Healing Results
At the six-month follow-up, Dr. Lam was able to show excellent bone healing, with strong callus formation around the treated area. The bones had shifted significantly to correct the bunion, a necessary move for proper alignment. This shift may seem dramatic, but it is exactly what is needed to achieve optimal results, and the healing process demonstrated the procedure’s effectiveness.
Dr. Lam also addressed a common concern among his patients. Some people may consult other doctors unfamiliar with this technique, leading to worry about whether the significant bone shift will heal properly. As the follow-up with this patient showed, the minimally invasive bunionectomy produces excellent healing and strong results even with a significant bone shift.
Faster Recovery and Lasting Results
One of the greatest advantages of this minimally invasive approach is how quickly it can deliver results. The technique allows for high intrametatarsal angles to be corrected without the need for more invasive procedures, such as osteotomy at the base of the bone or fusion surgeries like lapidus or lapiplasty. This patient not only had her bunion corrected, but a tailor’s bunion on the other side of her foot was also fixed without complication.
This cutting-edge approach has proven to be both efficient and highly effective, making it a great option for patients looking for a faster, less invasive way to correct bunions. The results speak for themselves, with many patients, like this one, seeing such success they return for the same procedure on their other foot.
Why Choose a Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy?
If you’re dealing with the pain and discomfort of bunions and want a less invasive option for correction, this procedure might be ideal for you. The benefits include:
– Smaller incisions: Less scarring and quicker recovery time.
– Temporary wires: No permanent screws or implants are left in the foot.
– Faster healing: Excellent bone healing and quicker return to activity.
– Lasting results: Significant corrections can be made without more invasive surgeries.
At the Family Foot & Leg Center, Dr. Kevin Lam and his team are dedicated to using the latest techniques to provide their patients with the best outcomes. If you’re considering bunion surgery, schedule a consultation today to find out if a minimally invasive bunionectomy is right for you.
This advanced technique is transforming the way bunions are treated, giving patients a quicker, more comfortable recovery and long-term results they can be proud of. If you’re tired of dealing with bunion pain, this minimally invasive procedure may be just what you need.
