Can I Have Bunions on Both Feet Operated?

If you have bunions on both feet, you are not alone. A lot of people do. And one of the most common questions we hear in clinic is simple and honest:

Can I get bunion surgery on both feet?

The short answer is yes.
The longer and more useful answer depends on how bad your bunions are, how you live day to day, and what kind of recovery you can realistically manage.

If you are considering bunion surgery perth , this guide will walk you through everything you actually need to know before making that decision. No scare tactics. No sales talk. Just straight answers.

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Why Bunions Often Appear on Both Feet

Bunions are not random. They usually develop over time because of:

• Foot structure you are born with

• Genetics (they often run in families)

• The way your foot functions when you walk

• Long-term pressure from footwear

Because these factors affect both feet, it is very common for bunions to form on both sides, even if one foot feels worse than the other.

In many cases:

• One bunion becomes painful first

• The other slowly follows

• People ignore the second one until it starts limiting daily life

By the time patients look into bunion surgery, both feet are often involved.

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Can Both Bunions Be Operated On?

Yes, bunions on both feet can be surgically corrected.

But there are two different ways this is usually done:

1. One foot at a time

2. Both feet together (bilateral surgery)

Each option has pros and cons. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, job, pain levels, and support at home.

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Option 1: One Foot at a Time

This is the most common approach.

Why many people choose this option

• You always have one “good” foot to walk on

• Easier recovery and balance

• Less impact on daily activities

• Safer for people who live alone or work on their feet

Usually, the more painful foot is treated first. The second surgery is done once the first foot has healed enough, often after a few months.

Downsides

• Two recovery periods instead of one

• More time overall before both feet feel normal

• Two separate procedures

For many patients, especially those working full-time or caring for family, this is the most practical path.

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Option 2: Both Feet Operated at the Same Time

Yes, this is possible, and some people do choose it.

Why some patients prefer bilateral bunion surgery

• One recovery period instead of two

• Both feet corrected at the same time

• Faster long-term return to normal footwear and activity

Important things to consider

• Walking will be more limited initially

• You may need mobility aids like crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair

• You will need help at home, especially in the first few weeks

• Not suitable for everyone

Bilateral bunion surgery is usually only recommended when:

• Both bunions are severe

• The patient is healthy

• There is strong support at home

• The person fully understands the recovery process

If you are considering bunion surgery perth, this option needs careful planning, not a rushed decision.

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How Recovery Differs Between One Foot and Both Feet Surgery

Recovery is the biggest factor people underestimate.

Recovery after one foot surgery

• Walking boot or surgical shoe

• You can still move around independently

• Easier to return to work sooner (depending on job)

• Less strain on balance and posture

Recovery after both feet surgery

• Very limited walking early on

• Higher dependence on others

• More planning required for daily tasks

• Strong commitment to rest and elevation

Neither option is “better.” The right one is the one that fits your life.

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Will Both Bunions Need the Same Surgery?

Not always.

Even if bunions appear on both feet, they may not be identical. One foot may have:

• A larger deformity

• More joint damage

• More pain or stiffness

The surgical approach may differ slightly between feet, especially if surgeries are staged. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

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Is It Safe to Operate on Both Feet?

When done for the right patient, bunion surgery on both feet can be safe and effective.

Safety depends on:

• Your general health

• Bone quality

• Circulation

• Commitment to post-surgery care

• Following recovery instructions properly

A proper assessment is essential. Surgery should never be a “one-size-fits-all” decision.

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Common Concerns Patients Have

“Will I be able to walk again normally?”

Yes. The goal of bunion surgery is to improve foot function, reduce pain, and allow you to walk more comfortably long-term.

“Will the bunions come back?”

Recurrence is uncommon when surgery is planned correctly and aftercare is followed. Footwear choices and biomechanics matter after surgery.

“Is surgery the only option?”

Not always. Mild bunions can sometimes be managed with footwear changes, orthotics, and activity modification. Surgery is usually considered when pain affects daily life.

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When Is the Right Time to Consider Surgery?

You may want to start thinking seriously about surgery if:

• Pain is affecting your work or daily activities

• Shoes are difficult to wear

• The bunion is getting worse over time

• Conservative treatments no longer help

• Both feet are limiting your mobility

Waiting too long can sometimes make correction more complex, especially if joint damage progresses.

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Choosing the Right Approach for You

There is no single correct answer to whether both bunions should be operated on at once or separately.

What matters is:

• Honest discussion about your lifestyle

• Understanding recovery requirements

• Clear expectations about timelines

• A treatment plan tailored to you

If you are exploring bunion surgery perth, this conversation should feel collaborative, not rushed.

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Final Thoughts

Yes, bunions on both feet can be operated on.
But how and when they are treated should always be a personalised decision.

Some people do best with one foot at a time. Others prefer to address both together. The key is understanding what recovery will realistically look like for you.

If bunions are stopping you from walking comfortably, wearing normal shoes, or enjoying daily life, getting proper advice is the first step toward long-term relief.