What to expect after foot surgery
Answering the most commonly googled questions about foot surgery
- Author: Support
- First published:
Ankle surgeon Perth
Like many people, you might turn to Google when you are worried about your foot or have been told you may need foot surgery. As a foot and ankle surgeon in Perth, I often hear these five questions in my rooms.
#1 How long is recovery from foot surgery?
Recovery depends on the type of foot surgery you have. A smaller procedure may settle more quickly, while a fusion or reconstruction usually takes longer. Swelling can also last much longer than most people expect.
If you are looking up what to expect after foot surgery, the key thing to know is that recovery is not just about the wound healing. It is also about when you can walk, wear normal shoes and return to work or exercise.
“If patients compare their recovery to somebody else’s, they often end up frustrated. Recovery after foot surgery is specific to the procedure and to the person.”
For procedure-specific recovery, you can read more on our pages about bunion surgery, big toe arthritis surgery, midfoot fusion and foot surgery for arthritis.
#2 What do I need to prepare for foot surgery?
A little preparation makes recovery much easier. Before foot surgery, it helps to organise transport, arrange help at home and make sure your essentials are easy to reach. You may also need crutches, a moon boot or a knee scooter, depending on your foot procedure.
I also encourage patients to review their medications well before foot surgery and to stop smoking or vaping if possible, as both can affect healing. If you are taking diabetic medication some of these need to be stopped prior to surgery. Likewise injections such as Ozempic need to be stopped more than one week before surgery.
#3 How do you start walking again after foot surgery?
This usually happens in stages. Some patients can walk in a boot quite early, while others need a period of non-weight bearing first. It depends on what has been done during surgery and how your foot is healing.
What to expect after foot surgery when you start walking again?
The most important thing is not to rush. Walking too early can put stress on healing bones, joints or tendons. Sometimes physiotherapy is useful, but the biggest priority is following the plan you have been given.
#4 How do you shower after foot surgery?
This is a practical question and an important one. In the early stages, your dressing, cast or boot usually needs to stay dry. That means planning ahead. A shower chair, a hand-held shower head, or help from someone at home can make things much safer. The hospital will give you waterproof bags to wear over your cast, boot or dressing.
I strongly advise against hopping on one leg in a wet bathroom. It is one of the easiest ways to fall and cause a setback.
#5 What do you need at home after foot surgery?
Keep things simple. Clear walkways, place essentials within easy reach, and have pillows ready so you can elevate your foot. It also helps to prepare meals in advance and arrange support for shopping, driving or school drop-offs if needed.
The Foot and Ankle Centre Perth
Why The Foot & Ankle Centre?
Every patient wants to know what to expect after foot surgery, but the answer always depends on the procedure and your own recovery plan. At The Foot & Ankle Centre, I make sure you understand not just the operation, but what happens afterwards as well.
You are welcome to make an appointment at The Foot & Ankle Centre. We try to see patients as quickly as possible.
