A bunion is a common foot deformity involving a bony bump at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to drift toward the smaller toes. Bunion surgery, or bunionectomy, corrects this misalignment and alleviates pain, often by cutting and realigning the bone. Proper post-operative care, especially managing the initial surgical dressing, is a significant factor in ensuring the procedure’s success and promoting complication-free healing.
The Initial Bandage Timeline
The initial surgical dressing applied in the operating room is designed to be bulky and compressive, protecting the incision and maintaining the corrected position of the toe. This first dressing must remain completely undisturbed until the patient’s first scheduled post-operative appointment with the surgeon. This period typically lasts for about seven to fourteen days after the operation, depending on the surgical technique and the surgeon’s protocol.
The dressing acts as a sterile barrier and a splint during this early healing phase. Patients must never attempt to remove this initial dressing on their own, even if it feels loose or uncomfortable. The removal and inspection of the wound must be performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. This timeline allows soft tissues to begin healing and the bone realignment to stabilize before the surgical site is exposed.
Maintaining the Dressing Until Removal
The initial dressing must be kept completely dry at all times to prevent infection. Moisture compromises the sterile environment and allows bacteria to enter, so patients must use a waterproof cover secured tightly above the ankle when showering. Full immersion of the foot, such as in a bathtub or pool, is prohibited until the wound is fully closed and cleared by the surgeon.
Consistent elevation of the operative foot controls post-surgical swelling. The foot should be kept elevated above the level of the heart as frequently as possible, especially during the first week. Reducing swelling lowers tension on the surgical incision and promotes better blood flow, supporting the healing process.
Patients must monitor the dressing for any signs that may indicate a complication requiring immediate medical attention. While minor spotting or dried blood on the outer layer is expected, a rapid saturation of the bandage with blood or other discharge is concerning. Serious warning signs include a foul odor emanating from the dressing, which suggests an infection, or excessive pain that does not improve with prescribed pain medication. A persistent fever above 101°F should also prompt an immediate call to the surgeon’s office for guidance.
The First Post-Operative Visit and Dressing Change
The first follow-up appointment, usually between one and two weeks post-surgery, is when the initial bulky dressing is removed. During this visit, the surgeon or nurse inspects the incision site for proper healing and checks for infection. Any non-dissolvable sutures are typically removed at this time, marking the end of the first recovery phase.
The foot transitions from the restrictive bandage to a smaller dressing, often involving thin adhesive strips. This new dressing continues to protect the incision but is less cumbersome than the first. Patients receive new instructions, including when and how they can begin to get the foot wet, such as taking a brief shower with the incision exposed.
The foot must continue to be protected, typically with a specialized post-operative shoe or boot. This protective footwear is worn continuously while standing or walking to shield the surgical site and support the mending bone. Managing the wound with smaller dressings and receiving guidance on showering represents a major step into the next stage of rehabilitation.