Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction

Lapiplasty FAQs

What happens prior to Lapiplasty surgery?

Prior to surgery, our expert podiatry team performs a comprehensive assessment and creates a surgical plan. This is an outpatient surgery performed at a surgery center. You’ll be given light sedation, allowing you to sleep without the need for general anesthesia, and local anesthesia makes the procedure pain-free.

What is Lapiplasty surgery recovery?

At the end of the surgery, the foot is dressed and placed in a walking boot. Immediate weight bearing is allowed in a majority of cases. 

The bunion correction protocols we helped develop result in an essentially painless recovery. The overwhelming majority of our patients rarely take more than one or two prescribed pain pills following surgery and can manage their post-op pain with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. With decades of surgical experience, our surgeons use plastic surgery closure techniques that result in minimal to no scarring.

The patient is seen five days after surgery, and the foot is checked. Sutures are often removed, and the patient is allowed to bathe and get the foot washed. Range of motion exercises have begun and you can expect to start walking in comfortable shoes four to six weeks post-surgery

Depending on the occupation, most patients return to work within five days. However, if you are doing work that requires standing for long periods, it may be between four to six weeks until you can safely return to work.

About three to four months post-surgery, most patients can resume regular and high-impact activities.

Read tips on how to prepare your house for your bunion surgery recovery.

Will lapiplasty surgery change my shoe size?

In most cases, foot width will decrease, meaning you’ll feel more comfortable in shoes. The foot width will narrow with realignment and correction of the metatarsal bone. And the good news is with the reduction of the bunion deformity, you will be able to return to the shoe wear of your choice!

Lapidus Bunionectomy vs. Lapiplasty, what’s the difference?

Unlike the traditional Lapidus bunionectomy, which is more difficult to use to correct the bone in all three planes, the Lapiplasty procedure addresses all three dimensions of the bunion by rotating the entire affected metatarsal bone back into normal alignment and securing it.

Can I have Lapiasty after a failed bunion correction procedure?

Yes, we have successfully performed the lapiplasty procedure on patients with a failed traditional bunion surgery. The Lapiplasty procedure fixes the root cause of the bunion which makes for a successful outcome and almost no chance of reoccurrence. 

When can I drive after Laiplasty surgery?

If the surgery was on your right foot, it will be five days before you can drive. However, if the surgery was on your left foot, we can get our patients driving as soon as you are comfortable keeping the foot down. 

Is Lapiplasty surgery covered by insurance?

While most insurance policies cover Lapiplasty, you will need to work with your provider to determine your level of coverage.

What hardware is used during Lapiplasty?

During the surgery, the unstable joint is secured with patented titanium plates.

What happens if I do nothing about my bunion?

Early-stage bunion deformities will almost always get worse over time. Bunion progression cannot be stopped. Over time, your bunions will cause increased swelling, which causes more pain and will appear more pronounced as well. Other complications include osteoarthritis, bursitis, and crossover toe.

Who's not a candidate for Lapiplasty?

Eligibility for the Lapiplasty® Procedure is restricted under the following conditions:

• Children under the age of 12.
• Adolescents aged 12-21 with open growth plates in bones that are not yet fully mature, where the implant would intersect these areas.

Additionally, you may be disqualified from undergoing any surgical procedure, including Lapiplasty®, if you have:

• An active infection.
• Compromised blood circulation, are obese, or have bone that is either insufficient in quantity or quality.
• Mental or neurological disorders that could hinder adherence to postoperative care guidelines.
• A known allergic reaction to the implantation of foreign materials or to the specific materials used in the implant.
• In cases of suspected material sensitivity, appropriate testing should be conducted prior to the device's implantation.

Lapiplasty 3D is ideal for most patients with moderate to severe bunions. However, some individuals with complex deformities or severe arthritis may require alternative treatment approaches. To determine suitability, a consultation with a trained specialist is necessary.

Are there any risks associated with Lapiplasty surgery?

Like all medical procedures, outcomes can differ from person to person. While there are numerous benefits, it's important to be aware of potential risks and understand that recovery times can vary. These risks include, but are not limited to:

• Infection.
• Negative reactions to the implant.
• Experiencing pain, discomfort, or unusual sensations due to the implant.
• The possibility of the implant loosening, bending, cracking, or breaking.
• Failure of the bone to properly secure to the implant.
• Potential for delayed healing, or in some cases, failure to heal properly, leading to a loss of correction or the bones not returning to their natural position. This can result in nonunion (where a fracture fails to heal) or malunion (where a fracture heals in a misaligned position).
• Bursitis, or the inflammation of the bursa, which can increase friction in the tissues.

Does Insurance cover the cost of Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Surgery?

Most insurance providers cover bunion correction procedures. However, coverage specifics vary, and patients should consult their insurance provider for detailed information.