Why does one have a swollen foot after union surgery and what can be done about it?

Not always: With any foot surgery, there is always a risk of swelling when the foot is down due to gravity. Keep in mind, bunion surgery is a reconstructive procedure and it takes time for the bones and soft tissue to remodel. If a foot is not allowed to properly heal prior to returning to activity, it will delay the healing process and can result in swelling. Talk to your surgeon if you are concerned.

It depends: There are many, many different types of bunion surgery, and the more involved ones take longer for the swelling to go down. But even with the lesser ones, it's not uncommon to be swollen for up to a year, but it should get progressively better over time. As the other doctor suggested, speak to your surgeon about this. Good luck!

Swelling: You don't mention when the surgery took place or the site in the foot. Swelling is normal but should diminish over time . See your surgeon for assistance