What to expect at your first visit:

It will be helpful if you do some research and write down any questions. We want you to get the most out of this visit and to leave with an understanding of your surgery.

We will review your medical history and current medications. Be sure to bring all the names of the medications you take with you.

If you see any specialists, we will want to know the names of the other physicians involved in your care.

Your surgeon will thoroughly review your medical history. It is important for any chronic medical conditions you have to be stable prior to surgery.

We will obtain x-rays of your foot while you are standing, and your surgeon will review these and discuss them with you.

Your surgeon will examine your foot and discuss the symptoms you are having related to your bunion. They will also discuss with you the activities you enjoy and your goals after your surgery.

Based on your exam and your x-rays, your surgeon will discuss with you the surgical options that are available to you. Risks and benefits of surgery will be discussed as well as the expected postoperative course will be outlined.

In most instances, you can pick a date for surgery at your first visit. Occasionally, we will need to obtain information from one of your other doctors before scheduling.

If you currently use any nicotine containing products, your surgeon will require you to stop using these products and have a blood test to show there is no nicotine present before scheduling your surgery.

This testing is done because your surgeon cares about you and your outcome. Nicotine has been shown in decrease the rate of bone healing and increase the rate of wound healing and other compliations.