Recovery after bunion surgery: week by week and month by month

The two sources used here do not always agree, because one is a national page and one is a single hospital leaflet. Where they differ, both are shown. Your surgeon's plan depends on what was done, for example how many bones were cut, and always overrides these ranges.

A helpful way to view the recovery is in three overlapping jobs: protecting the bone while it heals, getting the swelling down, and gradually returning to ordinary shoes and activity.

Raising the foot is the single most useful habit. Milton Keynes says keep the leg elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling and aid healing, and the NHS puts the minimum at 2 weeks of rest with feet up. That means lying down with the foot above heart level rather than just on a stool.

Swelling is normal and slow. Milton Keynes says it can take more than six months to settle, so a foot that swells by evening for a long while is not unusual. Keep dressings dry and ask the clinic who will remove stitches.

The NHS says avoid driving for 6 to 8 weeks and stay off work for 2 to 12 weeks, a wide range because jobs differ. Milton Keynes says desk-based work may resume at 2 weeks if you can elevate the foot, and driving once you are comfortable walking in your own footwear and can make an emergency stop. Pick the cautious end if you are unsure.

GOV.UK says you must tell DVLA if you have had an operation and are still unable to drive 3 months later. Your insurer's policy may add conditions, so check before you set off.

• Sort out stairs and bathing arrangements before surgery.

• Use a sock or bag over the dressing in the shower unless told otherwise.

• Ask for a note if your job needs a phased return.

Milton Keynes says avoid high-impact exercise for 12 weeks, then return gradually as comfort allows. The NHS puts the sport restriction at 3 to 6 months. Walking, gentle cycling and swimming are often the first activities back, but ask your surgeon which suit your type of operation.

Expect a visit at about 2 weeks for wound and splint checks and one at about 6 weeks for an X-ray, according to Milton Keynes. Further review depends on how the toe is healing and whether stiffness or pain needs attention.

• Spreading redness, discharge or fever: contact the hospital or GP, or NHS 111 out of hours.

• A hot, swollen, tender calf: seek urgent help, as it could be a clot.

• Chest pain or breathlessness: call 999.

• A toe that turns pale, blue or cold, or pain that keeps worsening.