Bunionectomy in Portland, ME
Bunions have a way of creeping up on you. At first, it’s just a little bump on the side of your foot. Then, over time, it starts to ache. Shoes don’t fit quite right anymore. Walking feels different. Maybe it even starts to change how you move. If you’ve been living with one for a while, and nothing seems to help, surgery might be worth a conversation.
At Maine Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Jules Bodo works with people in the Portland area who are tired of dealing with bunion pain—and want a long-term fix that makes sense for their life.
So What’s a Bunionectomy, Really?
A bunionectomy is the medical term for bunion surgery. But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, it’s a matter of shaving off the extra bone. Other times, the joint needs to be realigned or the soft tissue adjusted. Some folks need a little more correction, depending on how far the bunion has progressed.
The main goal? Get rid of the pain, improve movement, and stop it from getting worse down the road.
How Do You Know It’s Time?
A lot of people put off surgery for as long as possible—and that’s fair. In some cases, it’s the right call. Wide shoes, padding, or custom insoles can do the trick for a while. But if you’ve reached the point where it’s interfering with everyday life, it may be worth a closer look.
Here are a few signs you might be ready to talk about it:
- The joint near your big toe hurts more days than not
- Your other toes are starting to shift or overlap
- You’re walking differently to avoid pressure on the bunion
- None of your shoes feel comfortable anymore
Dr. Bodo will take time to figure out what’s really going on and explain your options without pushing anything too fast.
What to Expect If You Go Through With It
Most bunion surgeries are outpatient, which means you go home the same day. You’ll likely wear a surgical shoe or boot for a while to keep pressure off your foot. The first week or two can be a little uncomfortable, but it’s manageable. Swelling is normal, and it usually takes a few weeks to start feeling “normal” again. Some people also benefit from light physical therapy as they ease back into movement.
The good news? For most people, once it heals, it’s a big relief.
Why People Stick with Local Care
One of the things patients mention about Maine Foot and Ankle Specialists is how different it feels from larger clinics. There’s no rushing. Dr. Bodo takes time to explain everything, and the office feels calm—not like you’re being shuffled through a system. That kind of care matters, especially when you’re deciding on something as personal as surgery.