Preparing
for surgery

Medical consultation showing doctor's hands using anatomical foot model to explain foot anatomy to patient, with patient's leg visible on examination table

Pre admission information

Dr. Silveira will thoroughly explain the nature of the surgery that you are about to undergo. This includes the benefits and risks of the procedure. You will have the opportunity to take notes during the consultation. She will also need to assess your fitness for surgery, which takes into account certain factors like your age and independence, past medical history and current medications.

Once you have signed for the surgical procedure, the medical secretary will guide you through the process of admission to the private hospital of your choice. All pre-admission documentation is emailed to you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. Please do not hesitate to call or email us if you have any questions about the information provided to you before your surgery.

This emailed information will also include documents detailing postoperative wound care and the date and location of your postoperative follow-up appointment.

Timeline to recovery

This is dependent on many important factors, some of which include:

  1. The type and complexity of surgery you have undergone.
  2. The severity of your condition or degree of deformity.
  3. How long you have had the problem before you considered surgery.
  4. The part of the foot that has been operated on.
  5. Your ability to rest and elevate your foot after surgery (the duration of this period will vary depending on the type of surgery you have undergone).
  6. Strict adherence to all post-operative instructions provided to you in the pre-surgery email, especially in the wound care document.

Patients can put full weight on their foot after surgery to correct bunions and other toe deformities. You will be provided with a sandal that must always be worn when walking. You may walk around the inside of your home for self-care, but you must limit all outdoor activities, especially in the first 2-3 weeks after surgery.

Major fusion operations require a longer healing time, and you may be required to protect your foot in a boot for up to 3 months.

  • Rehabilitation
    • Dr. Silveira will guide you through exercises that must be carried out in the first few weeks after surgery. Referral to a physiotherapist and podiatrist will be arranged as required.
  • Travel
    • You should not undertake any long-distance travel within 6 weeks of having surgery. Please discuss your travel plans with your surgeon before undergoing surgery.
  • Driving instructions
    • Driving is legally not permitted for 6 weeks after surgery. 

General risks of foot and ankle surgery

The feet and ankles tend to swell immediately after surgery. Elevating your feet will reduce swelling. Long-term unmanaged or poorly managed swelling can result in a poor outcome from surgery. Swelling can also be managed by your physiotherapist through massage and by using a high-grade compression sock from a chemist. Keeping the toes moving constantly can also reduce swelling.

Infections following surgery can be prevented by keeping your wound dry and reducing swelling around the wound through rest and elevation of the limb.

The risk of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis is very low after foot and ankle surgery. You must drink plenty of water in the days after your surgery and move your toes as much as possible. You may be given a script for low-dose Aspirin if necessary. Dr. Silveira will determine the duration for which you are required to take Aspirin following your surgery.