Surgery: What to Expect Before, During & After Your Procedure

Creator: Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute
Published: 2025-01-27

Key Takeaways:

Modern surgery offers multiple techniques tailored to your specific condition
Minimally invasive options often mean faster re and less post-operative pain
Full recovery takes 6-12 weeks, but many patients walk (in a boot) within days
Over 90% of patients report significant improvement in pain and function

When Is Surgery the Right Choice?

surgery isn't for everyone—but for many patients, it's the definitive solution to yeapain and limitation.

At Centorida Foot & Ankle Institute, we recommend considering surgery when:

Conservative treatments have failed after 6-12 months
Pain significantly impacts daily activities—walking, working, exercising
The toe has drifted substantially, crowding or crossing other toes
Finding comfortable shoes has become impossible
Secondary problems have developed—, bursitis, arthritis
Quality of life is meaningfully diminished

If you haven't explored conservative options yet, read our complete guide first. Surgery should be a well-informed choice, not a first resort.

Understanding Your Surgical Options

Not all surgeries are the same. The best approach depends on your 's severity, your activity land your overall health.

Osteotomy (Bone Cutting Procedures)

The most common surgery type involves cutting and repositioning the metatarsal bone to correct alignment.

Chevron Osteotomy: For mild to moderate . A V-shaped cut allows the bone to be shifted into proper position. Scarf Osteotomy: For moderate to severe . A Z-shaped cut provides more correction capability. Lapidus Procedure: Fuses the joint at the base of the metatarsal. Best for severe or those with joint instability.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

A revolutionary advancement that Dr. HooveDr. Griffin offer at CFFAI. Using small incisions (3-5mm), specialized instruments correct the with:

Less tissue trauma

Reduced scarring

Decreased post-operative pain
Faster recovery for many patients

Learn more about minimally invasive foot surgery and whether you're a candidate.

Exostectomy

Removes the bony bump without realigning the joint. Only appropriate for very mild cases or patients who can't tolerate more extensive surgery.

Arthrodesis (Fusion)

For severe with significant arthritis. The joint is fused in a corrected position. Eliminates pain but limits joint movement.

Before Surgery: Preparation Matters

Medical Clearance

Your surgeon will ensure you're healthy enough for surgery. This may include:

Blood tests
EKG if indicated
Review of current medications
Clearance from your primary care physician

Medications to Adjust

Stop before surgery (as directed):

Blood thinners (Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto)
Aspirin and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
Certain supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, garlic)

Continue:

Most blood pressure and heart medications
Diabetes medications (with specific instructions)

Always follow your surgeon's specific pre-operative instructions.

Preparing Your Home

Recovery is easier when you prepare in advance:

Arrange help for the first few days
Prepare meals or arrange for meal delivery
Set up a recovery area on your main floor if possible
Get a knee scooter or crutches if recommended
Remove tripping hazards—rugs, cords, clutter
Stock up on ice packs, medications, comfortable loose clothing

The Day of Surgery

What to Expect

Most surgeries are performed astient procedures—you go home the same day.

Arrival: Plan to arrive 1-2 hours before your scheduled surgery time for check-in and pre-operative preparation. Anesthesia Options:

Local anesthesia with sedation (most common)
Regional nerve block
General anesthesia (less common)

The Procedure: Depending on the technique and complexity, surgery typically takes 45 minutes to 2 hours. Recovery Room: You'll spend 1-2 hours being monitored before discharge. Going Home: You'll need someone to drive you. Your foot will be bandaged, and you'll likely be in a surgical shoe or boot.

Recovery Timeline: What to Realistically Expect

Understanding the recovery timeline helps set appropriate expectations.

Week 1-2: Initial Healing

Pain Management: Controlled with prescribed medication, then transitioning to over-the-counter options
Elevation Critical: Keep foot above heart level as much as possible
Limited Mobility: Walking only for essentials (bathroom, kitchen)
Dressings: Keep dry; we'll change them at your first follow-up
Ice: Apply regularly to reduce swelling

Weeks 2-6: Progressive Recovery

Gradual increase in activity
Transition to walking boot for many patients
Stitches/staples removed (usually around week 2)
Physical therapy may begin
Driving: Usually possible at 4-6 weeks (left foot sooner if automatic transmission)

Weeks 6-12: Return to Normal

Transition to regular shoes (wide, supportive)
Return to most daily activities
Swelling continues to decrease (may persist mildly for months)
Exercise gradually resumed

3-6 Months: Full Recovery

Swelling fully resolved
Final alignment achieved
Full activity resumed
High heels (if desired): typically 4-6 months minimum

Post-Operative Care: Keys to Success

Wound Care

Follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding:

Keeping the surgical site dry
Dressing changes
Signs of infection to watch for

Pain Management

Most patients find pain manageable with prescribed medications for the first few days, then transitioning to over-the-counter options like acetaminophen.

Reducing Swelling

Swelling is the most persistent post-operative issue. Minimize it by:

Elevation: Foot above heart whenever sitting or lying down
Ice: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off
Compression: As directed by your surgeon
Limited activity: Don't overdo it, even when you feel good

Follow-Up Appointments

Expect visits at:

1-2 weeks (wound check, suture removal)
4-6 weeks (X-rays, boot transition)
3 months (progress evaluation)
6-12 months (final assessment)

Potential Complications: What to Watch For

While surgery is safe and effectnowing potential complications helps you recognize problems early:

Call us immediately if you experience:

Fever over 101°F
Increasing pain not relieved by medication
Significant swelling, redness, or warmth beyond the surgical site
Drainage from the incision (especially if discolored or foul-smelling)
Numbness or tingling that worsens
Calf pain or swelling

Results: What Can You Expect?

Studies consistently show excellent outcomes from surgery:

report significant pain improvement
85-90% satisfaction rates in most studies
Improved ability to wear shoes comfortably
Enhanced mobility and quality of life
Low recurrence rates with proper surgical technique

Is Surgery Right for You?
If are impacting your life and conservative treatments haven't helped, schedule a consultation to discuss your surgical options.

About Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute

At CFFAI, Dr. Carli Hoover and Dr. Sean Griffin are experienced foot and ankle surgeons offering the latest correction techniques, including minimally invasive options. With locations in Orlando, Kissimmee, Lake Mary, and Oviedo, expert surgical care is always close to home.

Ready to discuss surgery? Book your consultation today →

Key Takeaways