Bunionectomy

minimum cost
₱ 0
maximum cost
₱ 0

Things you need to know

1.What is ​Bunionectomy?
2.Why do you need it?
3.Why cost vary in philippines?
4.Surgery cost range by city
5.Surgery Procedure
6.Recovery
7.Risk and complications
8.FAQ
9.Conclusion

What is Bunionectomy ?

.

Why do you need Bunionectomy ?

Bunionectomy is indicated for:

  • Severe bunion deformity:
    • Pain: Persistent discomfort in the big toe joint, worsened by walking or tight shoes.
    • Deformity: Big toe angles toward other toes (hallux valgus angle >15°), causing a visible bump.
  • Functional limitations:
    • Difficulty walking or wearing shoes due to pain or deformity.
    • Overlapping toes: Crowding or pressure on adjacent toes.
  • Failed conservative treatment:
    • No relief from padding, orthotics, wide shoes, or anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Associated conditions:
    • Arthritis in the big toe joint (hallux rigidus) or bursitis from pressure.

The procedure aims to realign the big toe, remove the bony prominence, and restore foot function, improving comfort and appearance.

Why Do Bunionectomy Costs Vary in Philippines?

.

Bunionectomy Procedure

  • Before Surgery Evaluation:
    • Diagnosis:
      • Physical exam: Assesses bunion severity, toe alignment, and joint mobility.
      • X-ray: Measures hallux valgus angle (normal: <15°; severe: >30°) and intermetatarsal angle (normal: <9°).
      • Blood tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile.
    • Medications: Stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe.
    • Consent: Risks, including recurrence, are explained.
  • Surgical Techniques:
    • Bunionectomy:
      • Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or spinal anesthesia, lasting 1–2 hours.
      • Incision: Made on the side or top of the big toe joint (2–5 cm).
      • Bone correction:
        • Osteotomy: Cuts and realigns the metatarsal bone (e.g., chevron or scarf osteotomy).
        • Exostectomy: Removes the bony prominence (bump).
        • Soft tissue release: Adjusts ligaments/tendons to correct toe alignment.
      • Fixation: Screws, pins, or plates secure the bone (e.g., titanium screws).
      • Joint capsule and skin are closed with sutures.
    • Variations:
      • Minimal incision bunionectomy: Smaller incision, faster recovery, but limited to mild cases.
      • Lapidus procedure: Fuses the 1st tarsometatarsal joint for severe deformities or hypermobility.
    • Intraoperative Tools:
      • Osteotome/saw: Cuts bone for realignment.
      • Fixation devices: Screws or pins to stabilize bones.
      • Fluoroscopy: Intraoperative X-ray to confirm alignment.
  • After Surgery:
    • Hospital stay: Same-day discharge or 1 day.
    • Foot care: Surgical shoe or cast for 4–6 weeks; ice and elevation to reduce swelling.
    • Pain management: Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, tramadol) for 5–7 days.
    • Instructions: Non-weight-bearing for 2–6 weeks (varies by procedure); use crutches or walker; keep foot dry.

Recovery After Bunionectomy

  1. Hospital Stay: Same-day discharge or 1 day.
  2. Post-Surgery Care:
    • Pain/Swelling: Peaks at 3–5 days; ice and elevation help; swelling subsides in 6–12 weeks.
    • Mobility: Non-weight-bearing for 2–6 weeks (varies); partial weight-bearing in a surgical shoe at 4–6 weeks.
    • Physiotherapy: Starts at 4–6 weeks; focuses on range of motion, strength, and gait training; continues for 2–3 months.
    • Footwear: Surgical shoe for 4–6 weeks; transition to wide, supportive shoes at 6–8 weeks.
    • Activity: Avoid high-impact activities (e.g., running) for 3–6 months; normal walking in 2–3 months.
  3. Follow-Up:
    • Visits at 1 week, 2 weeks (suture removal), 6 weeks, and 3 months to monitor healing and alignment.
    • X-ray: At 6 weeks to confirm bone healing.

Most resume normal walking in 2–3 months; full recovery (including sports) takes 3–6 months. Success rate: 85–90% achieve pain relief and improved alignment; cosmetic results vary.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:
    • Infection (1–3%): Superficial or deep; treated with antibiotics, may need debridement.
    • Bleeding (1–2%): Hematoma; may need drainage.
    • Nerve injury (1–2%): Numbness or tingling near incision; usually temporary.
  • Post-Surgery:
    • Recurrence (5–15%): Bunion returns over years; risk higher with improper footwear or severe deformity.
    • Stiffness (5–10%): Limited big toe motion; managed with physiotherapy.
    • Delayed bone healing (2–5%): Nonunion or malunion; may need revision surgery.
    • Overcorrection (1–3%): Big toe angles outward (hallux varus); may need corrective surgery.
  • Long-Term:
    • Arthritis (5–10% over 10 years): Joint degeneration; managed with orthotics or medication.
    • Swelling (5–10%): Persistent for 6–12 months; elevation and compression help.

Report severe pain, swelling, fever, or redness promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes a bunion?

Genetics, tight footwear, high heels, flat feet, or arthritis; more common in women.

Can I avoid a bunionectomy?

Yes, if mild: Wide shoes, padding, orthotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs; surgery is for severe pain or deformity.

Is a bunionectomy painful?

Moderate pain for 3–7 days post-surgery, managed with medication; discomfort reduces in 2–3 weeks.

How soon can I resume activities?

Walking (with surgical shoe): 4–6 weeks; normal walking: 2–3 months; sports: 3–6 months.

Is a bunionectomy covered by insurance in India?

Yes, for functional issues (e.g., pain, deformity); confirm with your provider.

Signs of complications?

Severe pain, swelling, fever, or redness.

Will my bunion come back?

5–15% recurrence risk; proper footwear and foot care reduce this risk.

Lifestyle changes post-surgery?

Wear wide, supportive shoes, avoid high heels, follow physiotherapy, maintain healthy weight, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Bunionectomy

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
Antipolo
Bacolod
Bacoor
Baguio
Butuan
Cagayan de Oro
Caloocan
Cebu City
Dasmariñas
Davao City
General Santos
General Trias
Iligan
Iloilo City
Las Piñas
Makati
Malolos
Manila
Muntinlupa
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Puerto Princesa
Quezon City
San Fernando
San Jose del Monte
Taguig
Valenzuela
Zamboanga City

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

What is a Bunionectomy?

A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure to correct a bunion, a bony deformity at the base of the big toe (hallux valgus), where the toe angles inward, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty with footwear. It realigns the toe and removes the bony prominence to relieve symptoms and improve foot function. In the Philippines, bunionectomy is performed in orthopedic or podiatric departments at hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, and Philippine General Hospital (PGH), offering high-quality care at relatively affordable costs. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) is essential for Filipino patients to make informed decisions.

Why Do You Need a Bunionectomy?

A bunionectomy is indicated for:

  • Severe Bunion Deformity:

    • Pain: Persistent discomfort in the big toe joint, worsened by walking, tight shoes, or prolonged standing (60–70% of cases).

    • Deformity: Big toe angles toward other toes (hallux valgus angle >15°), causing a visible bony bump (metatarsal head prominence).

  • Functional Limitations:

    • Difficulty walking or wearing shoes due to pain or deformity (50–60% of cases).

    • Overlapping toes causing crowding or pressure on adjacent toes (20–30%).

  • Failed Conservative Treatment:

    • No relief from non-surgical measures like padding, orthotics, wide-toe shoes, or anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen, 30–40% of cases).

  • Associated Conditions:

    • Arthritis in the big toe joint (hallux rigidus, 10–15%) or bursitis from pressure on the bunion.

    • Secondary issues like hammertoes or calluses due to altered foot mechanics.

  • Prevalence: Bunions affect ~20–30% of adults in the Philippines, more common in women (3:1 ratio) due to footwear habits (e.g., high heels) and genetics.

  • Timing: Performed when pain or deformity significantly impacts quality of life; typically in adults (20–60 years); earlier for severe cases.

The procedure aims to realign the big toe, remove the bony prominence, and restore foot function, improving comfort, mobility, and appearance while preventing further joint damage.

Why Do Bunionectomy Costs Vary in the Philippines?

Costs range from ₱100,000 to ₱300,000, based on:

  • Procedure Type:

    • Simple exostectomy (shaving the bony bump, mild cases): ₱100,000–₱150,000.

    • Osteotomy (bone realignment, moderate to severe cases): ₱150,000–₱250,000.

    • Lapidus procedure (joint fusion for severe deformities): ₱200,000–₱300,000.

  • Hospital/Location: Higher costs in Metro Manila private hospitals (e.g., St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center: ₱150,000–₱300,000); lower in public hospitals like PGH (₱50,000–₱120,000, often subsidized by PhilHealth or PCSO medical assistance).

  • Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced orthopedic or podiatric surgeons charge higher fees.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Anesthesia (local with sedation or spinal): ₱10,000–₱30,000.

    • Hospital stay (same-day discharge or 1 day): ₱10,000–₱20,000/day.

    • Fixation devices (e.g., screws, pins): ₱10,000–₱30,000.

    • Pre-op tests (e.g., X-ray, blood tests): ₱5,000–₱15,000.

    • Medications (e.g., analgesics, antibiotics): ₱5,000–₱15,000.

    • Physiotherapy (2–3 months): ₱10,000–₱30,000.

    • Post-op surgical shoe or cast: ₱5,000–₱10,000.

  • Insurance: PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱20,000–₱50,000) for functional issues (e.g., pain, deformity); private insurance typically covers medically necessary cases. PCSO medical assistance may reduce costs. Confirm with your provider.

Bunionectomy Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:

  • Diagnosis:

    • Physical Exam: Assesses bunion severity, toe alignment, joint mobility, and associated deformities (e.g., hammertoes).

    • X-ray: Measures hallux valgus angle (normal: <15°; severe: >30°) and intermetatarsal angle (normal: <9°; severe: >13°) to plan surgery.

    • Blood Tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile, complete blood count to ensure surgical safety.

  • Preparation: Stop smoking (increases healing complications by 20–30%) and blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe; fasting 4–6 hours for anesthesia. Consent includes risks like recurrence or stiffness.

  • Multidisciplinary Team: Involves orthopedic surgeon, anesthesiologist, and physiotherapist (post-op).

Surgical Techniques:

  1. Bunionectomy:

    • Performed under local anesthesia with sedation (50–60%) or spinal anesthesia (40–50%), lasting 1–2 hours.

    • Incision: Made on the side or top of the big toe joint (2–5 cm).

    • Bone Correction:

      • Exostectomy: Removes the bony prominence (bump) on the metatarsal head; used for mild cases (20–30%).

      • Osteotomy: Cuts and realigns the metatarsal bone (e.g., chevron or scarf osteotomy, 50–60% of cases) to correct alignment.

      • Soft Tissue Release: Adjusts ligaments and tendons around the joint to straighten the toe.

      • Fixation: Screws, pins, or plates (e.g., titanium screws) stabilize the bone for healing.

    • Closure: Joint capsule and skin closed with absorbable sutures; surgical dressing or cast applied.

  2. Variations:

    • Minimal Incision Bunionectomy: Smaller incision (1–2 cm), faster recovery, but limited to mild cases (10–15%).

    • Lapidus Procedure: Fuses the 1st tarsometatarsal joint for severe deformities or hypermobility (10–20%); longer recovery (6–8 weeks non-weight-bearing).

  3. Intraoperative Tools:

    • Osteotome or bone saw: Cuts bone for realignment.

    • Fixation devices: Screws or pins for stability.

    • Fluoroscopy: Intraoperative X-ray to confirm bone alignment and screw placement.

After Surgery:

  • Hospital Stay: Same-day discharge (60–70%) or 1 day (severe cases).

  • Care:

    • Surgical shoe or cast for 4–6 weeks to protect foot and maintain alignment.

    • Ice and elevation (first 48–72 hours) to reduce swelling.

    • Pain management with oral analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, tramadol) for 5–7 days.

  • Instructions: Non-weight-bearing for 2–6 weeks (varies by procedure); use crutches or walker; keep foot dry and avoid soaking incisions.

Recovery After Bunionectomy

  • Hospital Stay: Same-day discharge or 1 day.

  • Post-Surgery Care:

    • Pain/Swelling: Peaks at 3–5 days; ice (20 min every 2 hours) and elevation (foot above heart level) reduce swelling; subsides in 6–12 weeks.

    • Mobility: Non-weight-bearing for 2–6 weeks (exostectomy: 2–4 weeks; osteotomy/Lapidus: 4–6 weeks); partial weight-bearing in surgical shoe at 4–6 weeks.

    • Physiotherapy: Starts at 4–6 weeks; focuses on range of motion, strength, and gait training; continues for 2–3 months (₱500–₱1,000/session).

    • Footwear: Surgical shoe for 4–6 weeks; transition to wide, supportive shoes (e.g., sneakers) at 6–8 weeks; avoid high heels for 6 months.

    • Activity: Avoid high-impact activities (e.g., running, jumping) for 3–6 months; normal walking resumes in 2–3 months.

  • Follow-Up:

    • Visits at 1 week (check incisions), 2 weeks (suture removal), 6 weeks, and 3 months to monitor healing and alignment.

    • X-ray at 6 weeks to confirm bone healing (80–90% heal by 6–8 weeks).

  • Most patients resume normal walking in 2–3 months; full recovery (including sports) takes 3–6 months. Success rate: 85–90% achieve pain relief and improved alignment; cosmetic results (straighter toe, no bump) are generally satisfactory (80–85%).

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:

    • Infection (1–3%): Superficial (skin) or deep (bone); treated with antibiotics or, rarely, debridement.

    • Bleeding (1–2%): Hematoma at surgical site; may need drainage.

    • Nerve Injury (1–2%): Numbness or tingling near incision; usually temporary, resolves in 3–6 months.

  • Post-Surgery:

    • Recurrence (5–15%): Bunion returns over years; risk higher with improper footwear, severe deformity, or non-compliance with post-op care.

    • Stiffness (5–10%): Limited big toe motion (hallux rigidus); managed with physiotherapy or, rarely, additional surgery.

    • Delayed Bone Healing (2–5%): Nonunion or malunion; may need revision surgery (₱100,000–₱200,000).

    • Overcorrection (1–3%): Big toe angles outward (hallux varus); may require corrective surgery.

  • Long-Term:

    • Arthritis (5–10% over 10 years): Joint degeneration in the big toe; managed with orthotics, medication, or joint fusion.

    • Persistent Swelling (5–10%): May last 6–12 months; elevation and compression socks help.

  • Report severe pain, swelling, fever, redness, or inability to bear weight promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes a bunion?
Genetics (70% of cases), tight footwear, high heels, flat feet, or arthritis; more common in women (3:1 ratio).

Can I avoid a bunionectomy?
Yes, for mild cases: Wide-toe shoes, padding, orthotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs can manage symptoms (30–40% of cases); surgery is needed for severe pain or deformity.

Is a bunionectomy painful?
Moderate pain for 3–7 days, managed with medication; discomfort reduces in 2–3 weeks.

How soon can I resume activities?
Walking (with surgical shoe): 4–6 weeks; normal walking: 2–3 months; sports: 3–6 months.

Is a bunionectomy covered by insurance in the Philippines?
PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱20,000–₱50,000) for functional issues (e.g., pain, deformity); private insurance typically covers medically necessary cases. PCSO assistance may apply. Confirm with your provider.

What are the signs of complications?
Severe pain, swelling, fever, redness, or inability to bear weight require immediate attention.

Will my bunion come back?
5–15% recurrence risk over 5–10 years; proper footwear (wide-toe, low-heel) and foot care reduce this risk.

What lifestyle changes are needed post-surgery?
Wear wide, supportive shoes, avoid high heels, follow physiotherapy, maintain a healthy weight to reduce foot stress, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

Bunionectomy is an effective procedure to relieve pain and correct bunion deformity, with a high success rate for improving foot function and comfort. The Philippines’ top hospitals (St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center, PGH) provide quality care at costs ranging from ₱100,000 to ₱300,000, often partially covered by PhilHealth or private insurance for functional issues. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and FAQs empowers patients to approach surgery confidently. Consult a board-certified orthopedic or podiatric surgeon for personalized guidance and optimal outcomes.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Bunionectomy

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
30,000
100,000
Antipolo
30,000
100,000
Bacolod
30,000
100,000
Bacoor
30,000
80,000
Baguio
30,000
100,000
Butuan
30,000
80,000
Cagayan de Oro
30,000
100,000
Caloocan
30,000
80,000
Cebu City
40,000
150,000
Dasmariñas
30,000
80,000
Davao City
40,000
150,000
General Santos
30,000
100,000
General Trias
30,000
80,000
Iligan
30,000
100,000
Iloilo City
30,000
100,000
Las Piñas
30,000
100,000
Makati
40,000
150,000
Malolos
30,000
80,000
Manila
40,000
150,000
Muntinlupa
30,000
100,000
Parañaque
30,000
100,000
Pasay
30,000
100,000
Pasig
40,000
150,000
Puerto Princesa
30,000
100,000
Quezon City
40,000
150,000
San Fernando
30,000
80,000
San Jose del Monte
30,000
80,000
Taguig
40,000
150,000
Valenzuela
30,000
80,000
Zamboanga City
30,000
100,000

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

Scroll to Top