Bunion Gone, But What About the Scar?
Bunion Surgery Scar Healing How to Get Rid of Bunion Surgery Scars
We show how to break up scar tissue after bunion surgery. If you have scar after bunion surgery, we review the BEST bunion surgery scar care!
- No one wants a scar after bunion surgery.
- We review our favorite ways how to break up scar tissue after bunion surgery.
- We also show how prevent a scar after bunion surgery altogether.
Bunion Surgery Scar: What to Expect and How to Heal Right
Undergoing bunion surgery can greatly improve your comfort and foot alignment—but many patients wonder what kind of scar will be left behind. Scarring is a natural part of healing, but with the right care and awareness, you can reduce its visibility and promote smooth recovery. Let’s dive into what bunion surgery scars look like and how to care for them properly.
Understanding Bunion Surgery Scars: Appearance, Healing, and Treatment
Discolored toenails from nail polish are commonly caused by dark-colored pigments seeping into the porous nail plate, especially if a base coat wasn’t applied. Over time, this can leave behind yellow, brown, or cloudy stains. However, discoloration that doesn’t fade or comes with changes like thickening, odor, or crumbling could indicate a fungal infection or nail trauma. Giving your nails a break from polish and using gentle nail treatments can help—but persistent issues should be evaluated by a podiatrist.
Big Toe Joint, Hammer Toe & Bunionette Problems
Minimize Scarring with Expert Bunion Surgery Aftercare
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Bloomfield Hills, Dr. Tom Biernacki and his team use advanced techniques that prioritize both function and aesthetics. From surgical planning to post-op scar care, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule your bunion consultation today and learn how we can help you recover beautifully and comfortably.
Call now or book an appointment online—your peace of mind starts here.
Prevent Bunion Surgery Scar Video
The best way to prevent a possible bad bunion surgery scar is to never have an incision in the first place.
We believe in attempting minimally invasive bunion surgery whenever possible when bunion surgery is needed.
This video goes over skipping bunion surgery altogether!
Best Bunion Scar Surgery Products
- These are our favorite creams and gel sheets for bunion scar surgery.
- Studies show best results in the 2 through 6 week time frame.
- Just make sure you check with your podiatrist first and get evaluated.




How To Get Rid of Bunion Surgery Scars:
These are our favorite ways to get rid of bunion scars and for breaking down scar tissue after bunion surgery:
Silicone Strips for Bunion Surgery Scar Tissue
Silicone strips have been proven to be very effective in weeks 2-6 of surgery.
- This moisturizes the scar and minimizes the dryness and scar tissue formation.
- Studies do show that between weeks 2-6 can be very effective in reducing scar formation.
- These silicone strips can prevent bad scars after bunion surgery and are one of the most proven ways of bunion surgery scar tissue removal.
Shockwave Therapy for Bunion Surgery Scar Removal
- Shockwave therapy is one of our favorite solutions for breaking up scar tissue after bunion surgery.
- Immature scar tissue that has built up, we have had a lot of success in reducing bunion scar tissue with shockwave therapy.
Scar after Bunion Surgery Topical Treatments and Creams
- There is evidence for topical treatments such as a vitamin E, cocoa butter and other moisturizing agents.
- We have seen success with the Vaseline and Aquaphor as well as CeraVe moisturizing lotions.
Bunion Scar Revision Surgery
- Sometimes surgery can be done to excise the surgical scar and close it.
- Why would this be any different than the initial surgery?
- Sometimes if there is friction and ripping of the sutures, a secondary surgery can be done to cut out the scar and make sure there is pressure held off the scar site.
- This can be very effective in healing without surgical formations.
Steroid Injections for Bunion Scar Formation
- A bunion scar formation can be reduced by injecting with steroids.
- Studies have shown that steroid injections can help soft and the appearance of thickened or hypertrophic scars.
Filler Injections Versus Car Surgery and Bunions
- There are filler injections that are available if there is a sunken scar, this can make the skin more supple.
- There are newer forms of injectable fillers now available, these are not covered by insurance.

No Scar Bunion Surgery
- A Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we practice no scar bunion surgery through minimally invasive bunion surgery.
Best Bunion Treatment Products












Bunion Surgery Scar: 7 Tips for Healing & Scar Prevention
If you’ve recently undergone bunion surgery, congratulations on taking a step toward pain-free walking and improved foot alignment! But as the incision heals, one concern often lingers: the scar. While scarring is a natural part of the recovery process, there are proven ways to reduce its visibility and encourage smooth healing.
Here are 7 essential tips to help you manage your bunion surgery scar effectively:
1. Follow Post-Op Instructions Carefully
Your surgeon’s guidance is designed to ensure both internal healing and external skin recovery. Keep the incision site clean and dry, avoid putting pressure on the area, and attend all follow-up appointments.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
Scars exposed to the sun can become darker and more noticeable. Once your incision has healed, protect the area with clothing or apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to prevent hyperpigmentation.
3. Use Silicone Gel or Sheets
Silicone-based products have been clinically shown to flatten and fade scars over time. Begin using them once the incision is fully closed, typically 2–3 weeks post-surgery.
4. Massage the Scar
Gentle massage using scar-reducing ointments can improve blood flow, soften the tissue, and prevent stiffness. Do this daily once the wound is no longer tender.
5. Stay Active — But Gradually
Movement encourages circulation and healing, but avoid high-impact activities that can aggravate the scar. Follow your podiatrist’s rehab plan to return to full activity safely.
6. Don’t Pick or Scratch
As your scar heals, it might itch—but resist the urge to scratch. Picking at scabs or scar tissue can delay healing and increase the risk of a raised or widened scar.
7. Consider Advanced Treatments if Needed
If you’re left with a thick, red, or raised scar, ask your podiatrist about laser treatments or steroid injections to reduce its appearance.
Not every scar will vanish, but with consistent care and the right techniques, your bunion surgery scar can become a minor detail—not a lasting concern. Prioritize healing from the inside out, and don’t hesitate to ask your foot specialist for personalized recommendations.
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FAQs About Bunion Surgery Scars
Most scars are 1–2 inches long, depending on the surgical method used.
While scars are permanent, they usually fade and become less noticeable over time.
In some patients prone to keloids or hypertrophic scarring, raised scars may develop.
Keep the wound clean, avoid sun exposure, use silicone scar gel, and follow your podiatrist’s instructions.
Once the incision is fully closed and healed, usually after 2–3 weeks.
They are usually thin, linear marks along the incision site—pink at first, then fading.
Yes, they often involve smaller incisions, which lead to smaller scars.
Yes, laser therapy may help reduce redness, thickness, or visibility of the scar.
It may take 6 months to 1 year to fully mature and fade.
If you notice redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge, contact your doctor immediately.