Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery
Bunions bend more than your big toe. They bend your plans, your shoe choices, and eventually your willingness to walk across a parking lot.
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What Is Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery?
Lapiplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects hallux valgus by rotating the displaced metatarsal bone back into its natural position across three anatomical planes.
The technique uses titanium plating to lock the correction in place, addressing the root cause of the deformity rather than its visible symptom.
Traditional bunionectomy cuts and shifts bone in two dimensions. Essex Union Podiatry's surgeons use the Lapiplasty system because it targets the unstable joint at the base of the metatarsal. That approach reduces recurrence rates and restores the mechanical alignment patients need to bear weight evenly.
The correction addresses both the cosmetic prominence and the biomechanical instability underneath it. Patients with moderate to severe bunions, failed previous bunion surgeries, or progressive deformity are candidates for evaluation.
Conditions Addressed by Lapiplasty
Hallux Valgus (Bunions)
The primary indication is hallux valgus, where the first metatarsal drifts medially and the big toe angles toward the second toe. Lapiplasty corrects the metatarsal rotation that causes visible bunion formation.
Recurrent Bunions After Previous Surgery
Patients whose bunions returned after a traditional bunionectomy may benefit from Lapiplasty's three-dimensional correction. Essex Union Podiatry evaluates prior surgical history and imaging before recommending revision.
Metatarsus Primus Varus
The underlying angular deformity between the first and second metatarsals drives bunion progression. Lapiplasty addresses this intermetatarsal angle at its source rather than compensating downstream.
Our Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery Process
Diagnostic Evaluation
Your doctor takes weight-bearing X-rays and performs a physical exam at one of our four New Jersey offices. Essex Union Podiatry measures the intermetatarsal angle, assesses joint mobility, and reviews any prior bunion treatments.
Surgical Planning
The surgical team maps your correction using the Lapiplasty instrumentation guide. Planning accounts for metatarsal length, rotation angle, and desired toe alignment so the titanium plate placement is precise.
Outpatient Procedure
Lapiplasty bunion surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure at an accredited surgical center. The surgeon rotates the metatarsal into position and secures the correction with titanium plating. Most procedures take under 90 minutes.
Structured Recovery
Patients typically bear weight in a protective boot within days of surgery. Essex Union Podiatry schedules follow-up visits at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks to monitor bone healing, plate stability, and range of motion.
Benefits of Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery
Three-Dimensional Correction
Standard bunionectomy addresses the bump. Lapiplasty corrects the rotated metatarsal in the transverse, frontal, and sagittal planes. Essex Union Podiatry uses this approach because it targets the root cause of deformity rather than its surface presentation.
Lower Recurrence Risk
Clinical data on Lapiplasty shows recurrence rates significantly below those of traditional osteotomy techniques. Correcting the unstable joint prevents the metatarsal from drifting back into its pre-surgical position.
Earlier Weight-Bearing
Most Lapiplasty patients walk in a protective boot within days of surgery. Traditional bunion procedures often require several weeks of non-weight-bearing recovery. Essex Union Podiatry's post-operative protocol gets patients back to daily activity sooner.
Real Patient Results
Actual before and after results from Essex Union Podiatry patients.
Why Choose Essex Union Podiatry for Bunion Surgery
Why Choose Essex Union Podiatry for Bunion Surgery
Essex Union Podiatry has performed foot and ankle surgeries for over 31 years. Our surgeons hold board certifications from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and maintain active memberships in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Dr. Galante, Dr. Testa, Dr. Haller, and Dr. Vesce each bring surgical expertise to bunion cases ranging from mild to complex. Patients needing revision surgery after a prior failed bunionectomy receive the same detailed preoperative workup as first-time candidates.
Four offices across New Jersey mean preoperative evaluations and post-surgical follow-ups happen close to home. Find your nearest office to start the process.
Common Questions About Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery
How is Lapiplasty different from traditional bunion surgery?
Traditional bunionectomy shaves the bony bump and shifts the metatarsal head in one or two planes. Lapiplasty rotates the entire metatarsal back to its correct position in three planes and locks it with titanium plating.
Essex Union Podiatry recommends Lapiplasty when the intermetatarsal angle indicates three-dimensional misalignment.
How long does recovery from Lapiplasty take?
Most patients walk in a surgical boot within days and transition to regular footwear between 6 and 8 weeks after surgery. Full recovery with return to high-impact activity typically takes 3 to 4 months.
Will my bunion come back after Lapiplasty?
Lapiplasty corrects the unstable joint that causes recurrence. Published data shows recurrence rates well below those associated with traditional techniques. Essex Union Podiatry monitors correction stability through scheduled follow-up imaging.
Does insurance cover Lapiplasty bunion surgery?
Most insurance plans cover bunion surgery when it is medically necessary. Essex Union Podiatry's team verifies coverage and obtains prior authorization before scheduling the procedure.
What Our Patients Say About Bunion Surgery
Essex Union Podiatry's bunion specialist team has helped patients across New Jersey return to the shoes and activities bunions took away. Read patient reviews to hear directly from people who chose our surgeons for their correction.
Schedule Your Lapiplasty Consultation in New Jersey
Essex Union Podiatry evaluates bunion candidates at all four NJ locations. Whether your bunion is progressing or a previous surgery did not hold, our board-certified surgeons can assess your options.
Book a bunion consultation or call Meet our surgeons to learn which doctor is the best fit for your case.