It’s a fair question to ask before any procedure: “Once it’s fixed, will it stay fixed?“ When it comes to bunion surgery especially with modern techniques like MIS the honest answer is reassuring, but with a few important details worth understanding.
Recurrence Is Uncommon, But Not Impossible
With properly planned and correctly performed surgery, the chances of a bunion returning are generally low.
However, like any surgical correction, there’s always a small possibility of recurrence, which depends on several factors.
What Affects the Chances of Recurrence
- Severity of the original deformity: More advanced cases may carry a slightly higher chance of partial recurrence compared to milder ones
- Surgical technique and precision: Accurate correction of the underlying bone position not just removing the visible bump is key to long term results
- Footwear choices after surgery: Continuing to wear narrow or unsupportive shoes can put stress back on the joint over time
- Underlying foot structure: Since foot shape and joint flexibility are often genetic, some of the original contributing factors remain part of your foot’s natural tendency
How Patients Can Help Protect Their Results
- Following post-operative footwear recommendations, even after full recovery
- Attending follow-up visits so any early signs of shifting can be caught and addressed quickly
- Maintaining healthy foot habits long term, not just during the recovery period
A well executed correction paired with sensible footwear choices afterward gives patients the best chance at a lasting result.
While no surgery can offer an absolute 100% guarantee, recurrence after proper MIS correction is the exception, not the rule.