How do I know if I need foot surgery?

Surgery is appropriate when conservative treatment has been tried for 6+ months without adequate relief, when a structural deformity is progressing and causing daily functional limitations, or when imaging confirms a lesion requiring surgical correction. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 procedures and recommends surgery only when it is clearly the right next step.

What is the recovery time for most foot and ankle surgeries?

Soft tissue procedures typically require 4–8 weeks non-weight-bearing then 4–8 weeks in a boot. Bone procedures (bunionectomy, fusion) require 6–8 weeks non-weight-bearing and 3–4 months before unrestricted walking. Ankle fusion takes 3–6 months for full recovery. Most patients return to athletic activity 6–12 months after major reconstructive procedures.

Will my insurance cover foot surgery?

Most medically necessary foot and ankle surgeries are covered when appropriately documented — including bunion surgery, hammertoe correction, tendon repair, ankle stabilization, and fracture fixation. Prior authorization is typically required for elective procedures. Balance Foot & Ankle handles all preauthorization and medical necessity documentation before scheduling.

What questions should I ask before foot surgery?

Ask: What is the expected outcome and what percentage of patients achieve it? What happens if I do not have surgery? What is the full recovery timeline including driving, working, and returning to sport? What are the risks specific to this procedure? Dr. Tom Biernacki has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle surgeries at Balance Foot & Ankle — call (810) 206-1402.

Showering After Foot Surgery 2026

when-can-i-shower-after-foot-surgery - Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS

Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon · 3,000+ surgeries · @MichiganFootDoctors (950K+ subscribers)

Last reviewed May 11, 2026 · (810) 206-1402

When Can I Shower After Foot Surgery?

Quick answer: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM and his team walk every patient through the prep and recovery process. Here’s what to expect.

Watch: Ankle conditions & surgical options

Two Weeks Before

Stop blood thinners (per surgeon’s orders), arrange transportation, prep your home, and stock supplies.

Day Of

NPO after midnight, comfortable loose clothing, no jewelry, bring an assistant, plan for ride home.

First Week After

Rest, ice, elevate above heart level. Take pain meds as prescribed.

Schedule Surgical Consult

Call (810) 206-1402.

⚕ Doctor Recommended

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AAOS: Recovering From Foot & Ankle Surgery

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your when can i shower after foot surgery, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402

Learn about our foot treatment → | Book online →

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Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)

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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

When Can I Shower After Foot Surgery?

Two Weeks Before

Day Of

First Week After

Schedule Surgical Consult

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Howell

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Bloomfield Hills