Bunions affect approximately 23% of adults between ages of 18-65, and up to 35% of those over 65, making them one of the most common foot deformities requiring medical attention. This painful condition can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
Lake Erie Podiatry stands as an expert provider of comprehensive podiatry services for adults and children in PA, offering advanced treatment options including the innovative Lapiplasty® procedure. Dr. Ruiz specializes in bunion pain management and cutting-edge surgical techniques to help patients regain comfort and mobility. Ready to explore your treatment options? Schedule an appointment with our skilled podiatrists today.
Understanding the differences between Lapiplasty® and other bunion treatments can help you make an informed decision about your care.
What Is Lapiplasty® and How Does It Work?
Lapiplasty® is a groundbreaking bunion correction method that addresses the 3D nature of bunion deformities. Unlike traditional techniques that only remove the bunion bump, Lapiplasty® fixes the root issue by stabilizing the joint at the base of the big toe.
The procedure uses specialized tools to rotate the metatarsal bone back into position and secures it with titanium plates, offering a more effective solution than conventional methods..
Lapiplasty® vs. Traditional Bunionectomy
When comparing Lapiplasty® to traditional bunionectomy, key differences can impact treatment success and patient satisfaction.
Surgical Approach Differences
A traditional bunionectomy, or osteotomy, involves cutting and realigning the metatarsal bone. Common techniques include:
- Austin/Chevron osteotomy: For mild to moderate bunions
- Scarf osteotomy: For moderate to severe bunions
- Proximal osteotomy: For severe cases
These procedures usually require 6-8 weeks of bone healing with limited weight-bearing.
Lapiplasty®, on the other hand:
- Realigns the entire metatarsal bone
- Uses titanium plates for immediate stability
- Allows earlier weight-bearing activities
Recovery Time Comparison
Recovery timelines vary significantly between procedures:
Traditional Bunionectomy Recovery:
- 6-8 weeks non-weight bearing
- 10-12 weeks return to normal activities
- 4-6 months for complete healing
Lapiplasty® Recovery:
- Weight-bearing as tolerated within days
- 6-8 weeks return to normal activities
- 3-4 months for complete healing
The accelerated recovery timeline makes Lapiplasty® particularly appealing for active individuals seeking minimally invasive bunion surgery options.
Making an Informed Decision About Your Bunion Treatment
Bunion surgery has improved, offering more options for patients. While traditional bunionectomy works well, Lapiplasty® provides benefits like better correction and faster recovery. The right treatment depends on your bunion severity, lifestyle, and preferences. Choosing an experienced podiatrist with various options ensures care that fits your needs. Don’t let bunion pain stop you—contact Lake Erie Podiatry for an evaluation and take the first step toward pain-free living.
Get Your Bunion Treated Today
Effective bunion treatments like Lapiplasty® and traditional bunionectomy can transform your mobility and quality of life, and Lake Erie Podiatry is here to guide you every step of the way. With personalized care tailored to your needs, relief is within your reach.
Don’t wait to reclaim your comfort. Contact Lake Erie Podiatry today to schedule an appointment and explore how our specialized bunion treatments can help you get back to doing the things you love—pain-free. We look forward to supporting your journey to better foot health!
