The Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction is an innovative procedure. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. 

 

  • When can I return to physical activity?
    • Patients who have this procedure will be in a walking book for six weeks after surgery, and then they will return to an athletic shoe. After returning to an athletic shoe, your physician will discuss what low-impact exercises or activities you are able to return to. Patients who participate in more aggressive or high-impact activities, such as running or competitive sports, will slowly return in about three to four months after surgery. 
  • Who can perform the Lapiplasty procedure?
    • Only surgeons who have been specially trained in the Lapiplasty technique can perform this surgery.
  • Is this procedure covered by insurance?
    • ​Bunions are a painful condition and a deformity; therefore, the vast majority of insurance plans will cover this procedure. In our practice, a decline of surgical benefits for this surgery has not occurred to date. 
  • If both feet have bunions, can both be fixed at the same time?
    • ​It is not recommended that both feet have surgery at the same time. The non-operative foot is required to help with walking after surgery, and if both feet have the procedure, the complication risk increases. If both feet require surgery, a waiting period of approximately eight weeks or more between procedures is recommended.
  • If I have other conditions in my foot, can they be corrected at the same time?
    • ​Patients with bunions often suffer from conditions like hammertoes, neuromas, and pain in the ball of their feet. Sometimes these conditions improve with the Lapiplasty surgery as it returns the foot to more normal function. However, if significant deformity exists, and the patient has failed conservative treatments, then yes, surgery for these conditions is recommended. 
  • Are my activities limited after surgery once I am healed?
    • ​Once the healing process is complete, patients have no restrictions when it comes to activities. Patients can return to sport and activities, as well as returning to their previous shoe gear.
  • If I have failed a previous bunion surgery, can the Lapiplasty procedure be used to correct my bunion?
    • ​In most cases, if arthritis has not developed at the level of the great toe joint, yes, this procedure can be utilized. With that being said, if arthritis is present, a fusion of the great toe joint may be needed. 
  • Is Lapiplasty the only option for bunion correction?
    • ​There are many different ways to fix a bunion deformity, and the choice of procedure is best made with you and your surgeon. Based on the patient's age, bunion size, and medical history, a different procedure may be selected by your surgeon. 
  • Can children with bunions have this procedure? 
    • ​Yes. This procedure and its titanium plates are FDA cleared for use in children. Due to the instability that a child may have in their foot to develop a bunion at such a young age, fusion of the joint and three dimensional correction of the deformity is recommended. Conservative care to make the bunion more comfortable will be employed until the child reaches skeletal maturity at the site of the surgery. 
  • Do I need physical therapy after this procedure?
    • ​Some patients do, some patients don't. It depends if the great toe joint is stiff after surgery, which in most cases, it is not. This joint does not get as stiff as in traditional bunion surgeries because the great toe joint is not opened to the extent that is it when a tradition bone cut (osteotomy) is performed. Many patients can perform at-home range of motion exercises to the joint on their own. 
  • How old is too old for bunion surgery?
    • ​There is not necessarily a cut-off age for bunion surgery. Biologic age is more important, meaning healthy individuals in their sixties and seventies may be candidates. Your health, bone quality, and mobility will be assessed to determine if this procedure is right for you. 
  • If I have diabetes, can I have the Lapiplasty procedure?
    • ​Yes, as long as you are controlling your blood sugars, have a normal HbA1c test, and you are in good health overall.
  • Can I wear high heels and flip-flops again?
    • ​Yes, you may return to normal shoe gear after surgery, but like with everything in life, moderation is key. One should wear shoes when the situation calls for it. A flip-flop or high heels should not be your walking shoes, whether you have had a bunion surgery or not! 
  • Is Lapiplasty an inpatient or outpatient surgery?
    • ​The Lapiplasty procedure is an outpatient procedure and usually takes around 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours to complete in the operating suite. This can be performed in a hospital or surgery center setting. Patients will receive anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist. Most patients leave for home within an hour after the completion of the procedure.
  • Can I fly after having surgery?
    • ​Most surgeons do not recommend flying while you are immobilized in a walking boot. The boot will be in place for at least six weeks after surgery. Flying in a plane after any foot or ankle surgery can increase your risk for blood clots, a painful and potentially life threatening complication. With that being said, blood clots are rare. If you have certain travel plans, please discuss them with your physician.
  • Can I return to work after surgery?
    • ​Patients are recommended to stay away from work for at least two weeks after surgery to allow the swelling and post-operative pain to reduce. Pain medication is required immediately after surgery and it is not recommended to take these medications while working. If you are able to work from home, or elevate your foot in the office, some patients are allowed to return to work in just a few days. If you have a job that requires prolonged walking, and your employer cannot provide work restrictions, a full eight weeks off work would be needed, sometimes longer if extremely vigorous activity is required.