Minimally Invasive (MIS) Bunion Surgery – Recovery & What to Expect

This page explains the typical recovery after MIS bunion correction (hallux valgus). It summarises our clinic experience and current best practice so you can plan with confidence.

Why MIS compared with open surgery?

MIS is performed through tiny incisions, causing less soft‑tissue disruption. In our series, patients generally returned to function sooner and reported less pain than after traditional open procedures.

Recovery milestone	MIS (average)	Open surgery (average)
Return to normal shoes	~8 weeks	~12 weeks
Resume driving	~6 weeks	~10 weeks
Light activity	~10 weeks	~16 weeks
Full activity	~20 weeks	~28 weeks

Times are averages; individual recovery varies depending on age, health, and additional procedures.

Week‑by‑week overview

• Weeks 0–2: Rest, elevation, post‑op shoe. Pain usually managed with simple analgesia.
• Weeks 2–6: Increase walking gradually. Expect swelling by evening.
• Weeks 6–10: Transition to soft shoes; many resume driving. Start low‑impact exercise.
• 3–6 months: Normal footwear and longer walks. Symptoms steadily improve.
• 6–12 months: Final recovery stage; swelling and stiffness resolve gradually.

Tips for recovery

• Elevate foot in the first 2 weeks.
• Use supportive, wide shoes.
• Scar care once healed: moisturise and protect from sun.
• Physiotherapy for gait and strength.

Note: Swelling is normal and often fluctuates with activity and heat.

Expected vs red flags

Expected

• Bruising and swelling
• Toe stiffness
• Mild numbness near scars

Seek help if

• Worsening pain, redness or heat
• Persistent wound leakage
• Calf pain/swelling or breathlessness

FAQs

When can I work? Desk jobs ~2–4 weeks, manual work ~6–10 weeks.

When can I drive? Around 6 weeks, when safe and insured.

Will the bunion come back? Recurrence is low if corrections and rehab are followed.

Next steps

Ready to plan your treatment?

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This information is general guidance. Always follow your surgeon’s advice.