Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction

Understanding Bunions: More Than Just a Bump

If you're one of the 65 million Americans affected by bunions, you've likely been told that the bump on your toe is simply bone overgrowth that can be "shaved off." This common misconception has led to countless failed surgeries and frustrated patients who see their bunions return.

The truth is far more complex. Bunions are actually a three-dimensional deformity caused by an unstable joint in the middle of your foot. While that visible bump is what you see and feel, the real problem lies much deeper.

What Really Causes Bunions?

Genetic predisposition - bunions often run in families
Biomechanical imbalances - how your foot functions affects joint stability
Joint instability - the root cause that allows bones to drift out of alignment

While tight shoes and prolonged standing may aggravate your condition, they don't cause bunions. The underlying instability in your foot's structure is the true culprit.

Common Bunion Symptoms

✓ Pain and tenderness around the big toe joint
✓ Swelling and inflammation
✓ Pressure and numbness
✓ Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
✓ Pain that worsens with standing or walking

Important: Bunions are progressive and worsen over time without treatment. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Why Lapiplasty® is Revolutionary

Traditional 2D Surgery Problems

Only cuts and shifts the top part of the bone
Fails to address the unstable joint causing the problem
Higher rates of bunion recurrence
Requires weeks of non-weight bearing recovery
Treats symptoms, not the underlying cause
Often results in patient dissatisfaction

Lapiplasty® 3D Advantages

Corrects the deformity in all three dimensions
Addresses the ROOT CAUSE - the unstable joint
97% of patients maintain correction at 13 months
Weight-bearing in days, not weeks
Returns your foot to its natural anatomy
Dramatically improved patient satisfaction

How Lapiplasty® Works

Unlike traditional bunion surgery that only addresses the visible bump, Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction works by stabilizing the unstable joint that's causing your bunion in the first place. Here's what makes it different:

Three-Dimensional Correction: The procedure corrects your bunion in all three planes of movement - up and down, side to side, and rotationally. This comprehensive approach ensures that your entire bone structure is returned to its normal alignment.

Joint Stabilization: By addressing the unstable joint in the middle of your foot, Lapiplasty® eliminates the root cause of bunions. This means your bunion is far less likely to return compared to traditional methods.

Advanced Fixation: The procedure uses specialized titanium plates that create an incredibly stable construct. This stability allows you to begin walking in a protective boot within days of surgery, rather than being non-weight bearing for weeks.

Your Recovery Journey

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Within 2 Weeks

Begin putting some weight on your foot in a protective boot. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they feel.

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4-6 Weeks

Walk in a boot and return to light activities. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel compared to traditional bunion surgery recovery.

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6-8 Weeks

Transition back into comfortable shoes. Many patients are thrilled to wear shoes they haven't been able to wear in years.

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4-6 Months

Resume most activities and return to normal footwear. Get back to the active lifestyle you've been missing.

Why Recovery is Faster with Lapiplasty®

The advanced titanium plates used in Lapiplasty® create such a stable construct that you can walk within days rather than weeks. This is the same technology trusted by professional sports teams who need their athletes back in action quickly and safely.

FDA

Cleared Since 2015

Clinical Publications

✓

Insurance Covered

Dr. Andrew Schneider: Houston's Lapiplasty® Expert

Not all surgeons offer Lapiplasty® - it requires specialized training and expertise. Dr. Andrew Schneider is one of Houston's leading Lapiplasty®-trained surgeons, bringing years of experience and advanced training to every procedure.

At Tanglewood Foot Specialists, we've seen firsthand how Lapiplasty® transforms lives. Patients who have struggled with bunion pain for years are able to return to activities they love - whether that's hiking, dancing, or simply wearing the shoes they want to wear.

Why Choose Our Practice?

Specialized Training: Dr. Schneider has completed advanced Lapiplasty® training
Comprehensive Care: We handle everything from consultation to full recovery
Insurance Expertise: We work with your insurance to maximize coverage
Patient-Centered Approach: Your comfort and outcomes are our top priority
Houston Convenience: Easily accessible location with ample parking

We believe in treating the whole person, not just the condition. Our approach combines cutting-edge surgical techniques with compassionate care to ensure you have the best possible experience and outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for Lapiplasty®?

Lapiplasty® treats bunions of all severities - mild, moderate, and severe. During your consultation, Dr. Schneider will take X-rays and evaluate your specific condition to determine if you're a candidate. Even patients who have had failed traditional bunion surgery may be candidates for Lapiplasty® correction.

Is Lapiplasty® covered by insurance?

Yes! When deemed medically necessary, insurance and Medicare typically cover the bunionectomy and joint fusion procedures that utilize the Lapiplasty® System. Our team will work directly with your insurance provider to determine your specific level of coverage and help maximize your benefits.

What happens if I don't treat my bunion?

Bunions are progressive and worsen over time without treatment. You may develop crossed-over toes, hammertoes, bone spurs, and ball-of-foot pain. The sooner you address the underlying problem, the better your long-term outcomes will be.

How is Lapiplasty® different from traditional bunion surgery?

Traditional surgery only cuts and shifts the top part of the bone, leaving the unstable joint untreated. Lapiplasty® corrects all three dimensions of the deformity and addresses the root cause by stabilizing the unstable joint. This leads to better outcomes, faster recovery, and significantly lower recurrence rates.

Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction