Dr. Bob Baravarian explains how OssioFiber® is redefining bunion surgery
What is a Bunion?
A bunion appears as a bony bump on the inside of the foot where the first metatarsal meets the base of the big toe. The bunion forms when the bone shifts outward, causing the joint to protrude (stick out). A similar bump at the base of the little toe is called a tailor’s bunion.
While a bunion cannot be fixed without surgery, its development can sometimes be slowed with non-surgical treatments like custom orthotics and supportive shoes.
What sets Dr. Bob Baravarian apart from other bunion surgeons?
Los Angeles foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Bob Baravarian is board-certified and nationally recognized as one of the top bunion surgeons in the country.
Named one of the Best Foot Surgeons in California and recognized as a Top Doctor in Los Angeles by Los Angeles Magazine, he has performed over 20,000 successful bunion surgeries in his more than 25 years of practice. This extensive experience has helped him refine and perfect his surgical techniques, consistently achieving excellent results with faster recoveries and minimal bunion pain or scarring.
About Dr. Baravarian’s Non-Metal Ghost Bunionectomy™ Surgeries
Dr. Baravarian has perfected a completely non-metal surgical solution for most of his surgeries, including bunion surgery.
He has completely eliminated the need for metal screws or plates in surgery! Instead, he uses surgical hardware made from a proprietary fiber-reinforced composite material called Ossio-Fiber, which he helped develop over the past eight years.
Ossio-Fiber is as strong as metal. It is essentially integrated into your body’s own bone over the next two years. Hence the name “Ghost Bunionectomy,” because the surgical hardware simply disappears as it integrates into your own bone.
The Ossio-Fiber non-metal fixation controls stress abnormalities through the bone because the material is sticky. This stickiness holds the foot’s bones in place even better than metal surgical hardware while the bones heal.
And because Ossio-Fiber doesn’t contain metal, there are never any surgical screws, plates, or nails to remove. There are never any metal allergy issues or discomfort from cold weather, unlike with metal hardware. Also, the fiber doesn’t interfere with post-operative imaging like MRI or CT scans, making it easier for your doctor to monitor healing.
What types of Ghost non-metal bunion surgeries does Dr. Baravarian perform?
Dr. Baravarian performs three distinct state-of-the-art bunion treatment options. He always chooses the approach best suited to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals. They are:
Ghost Non-Metal Bunion Minimally Invasive Surgery
This treatment option combines the best parts of open bunionectomy (which stabilizes the bone with hardware) with the best aspects of a traditional minimally invasive bunionectomy, needing just one tiny 1 cm (less than ½ inch) incision.
Traditional minimally invasive procedures use a thin, fragile metal pin to keep the cut bone fixed in place. Dr. Baravarian’s surgical approach uses his own custom-designed Ossio non-metal fixation system. It provides a stronger, more stable fixation that can be placed through a very small incision.
There are several important results. One is that you will be able to bear weight on your foot immediately after surgery. Another is the improved environment for excellent healing. A vital third is that this procedure greatly limits the likelihood of “non-union risk”. In other words, a broken bone will fail to heal properly. This risk is associated with traditional minimally invasive metal bunion surgeries.
By marrying the best of both approaches with his non-metal surgical hardware technology, Dr. Bavarian finds that this surgery is an exceptional option for achieving optimal outcomes.
Ghost Non-Metal Osteotomy Bunionectomy
This procedure is used for moderate to severe bunions without joint instability. It is commonly used on active patients younger than age 50. It is one of the most performed bunion surgeries today.
An osteotomy, or bone cut, is performed at the tip of the first metatarsal. This “V” shaped cut allows the first metatarsal to shift, so that it becomes parallel to the second metatarsal. The metatarsal bones are then secured in their new position with two non-metal surgical screws.
Dr. Bob is proud to offer his revolutionary Ghost no-metal fixation option for his osteotomy bunion surgeries. Since Ossio-Fiber is used, this osteotomy bunionectomy is a strong and predictable procedure with immediate weight-bearing.
Ghost Lapidus Non-Metal Bunionectomy
Dr. Baravarian’s metal-free Ghost Lapidus Bunionectomy is the best choice for moderate to severe bunions and those with joint laxity. This type of bunion correction is considered the Gold Standard for bunion surgery.
For the right patient, this unique Lapidus procedure has the highest success rates, with essentially a 0% chance of the bunion returning. This is because the procedure fixes the source of the bunion deformity: a lax/hypermobile joint between the first metatarsal and the cuneiform bone located at the base of the big toe joint.
Dr. Baravarian’s non-metal surgery moves the deviated bone back to its original position without cutting it. This naturally realigns your foot, straightening your big toe, alleviating the bump, and eliminating any accompanying foot pain.
This method avoids the complications that often occur with metal hardware. In addition, your foot can be weight-bearing in just two weeks (versus 6-8 weeks with the traditional approach).
Bunion Revision Surgery
Many of Dr. Baravarian’s patients consult with him after unsuccessful bunion surgeries at other facilities. Revisions account for almost one-third of his bunion surgeries. It pains him that so many people need to go through bunion surgery a second time.
Failed bunion surgeries are discovered when new complications appear, including recurrence of the bunion, an excessively shortened big toe, stiffness in the toe joint, and/or arthritis.
If you are reading this before your first bunion surgery, please note that it is essential to choose your revision surgeon wisely. Bunion revision surgery requires the necessary experience and skills to understand and address the shortcomings of the original surgery.
Dr. Baravarian can also integrate PRP, amniotic fluid allograft, and amniotic Wharton’s Jelly to enhance healing and improve outcomes for any of our procedures.
Does Dr. Baravarian perform other types of bunion surgical procedures?
Yes, when appropriate for his patients, Dr. Baravarian also performs these additional bunion surgical options:
Bunionplasty
The Bunionplasty® 360 Bunion Repair™ procedure is a minimally invasive bunion surgery (MIBS) that enables many patients to walk immediately after their procedure. It utilizes patented technology and patent-pending surgical techniques to provide superior correction and a quick return to daily activities.
Lapiplasty
The Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction™ procedure is an advanced surgical solution that corrects mild, moderate, and severe bunions by restoring the entire bone to its natural alignment. Unlike traditional bunion surgery that simply removes the bump, Lapiplasty® addresses the root cause—an unstable joint—through precise, tri-plane correction and patented fixation technology.
Dr. Baravarian’s bunion surgeries are virtually painless and scar-free
Many patients avoid bunion removal because they fear pain and scarring. Thanks to advanced bunion correction techniques developed with Dr. Baravarian, recovery time is very comfortable, and incisions are almost invisible. Most patients say they wish they hadn’t waited so long.
Experience Dr. Baravarian’s exceptional personalized care
From Dr. Baravarian: “After twenty-five years and over 20,000 bunion surgeries, I feel like I’ve really perfected bunion surgery.”
“I see a limited number of patients, and my goal is to create a family-friendly environment where you have access to me and my staff whenever you need us. We get you in right away, address your issues promptly, and help you improve your quality of life with state-of-the-art care.
“I am proud to be among the first and most experienced surgeons to make holistic, non-metal foot and ankle surgery a reality for my patients today.”
In addition to bunion correction surgery, Dr. Bob Baravarian is available for both minor and major foot problems. We perform all kinds of surgeries, including hammer toe surgery, Achilles tendon ruptures, flat feet, and Morton’s neuroma, among others
Dr. Bob Baravarian is the best bunion surgeon in Los Angeles
Dr. Bob Baravarian is a pioneer in advanced bunion correction and foot and ankle surgery. He developed leading surgical protocols including Bunionplasty®, Lapiplasty®, and the innovative Ghost™ no-metal bunionectomy, known for minimal scarring and faster recovery. With more than two decades of experience and thousands of successful surgeries, he continues to refine his techniques to achieve exceptional, natural-looking results.
A leader in regenerative medicine, Dr. Baravarian integrates amniotic stem cells, PRP, amniotic fluid allograft, and SoftWave® therapy to enhance healing and improve outcomes. He’s also been instrumental in clinical research on OSSIOfiber®, a metal-free fixation technology. Each procedure is fully tailored to the patient’s anatomy and lifestyle, reflecting his precision, artistry, and commitment to providing the most advanced surgical care available.
Dr. Bob Baravarian is conveniently located in Los Angeles, blocks from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Beverly Hills, providing expert foot and ankle care for patients throughout Southern California.
Bunion FAQs
Why do Dr. Baravarian’s patients recover faster and with less pain?
Dr. Baravarian uses advanced techniques to make recovery as easy and comfortable as possible.
He’s gentle with soft tissue, uses special fixation methods to reduce swelling, and applies long-lasting local anesthesia to control pain. Regenerative medicine speeds healing, and a custom boot helps protect the foot. Most patients need little to no prescription pain medicine after surgery, often just over-the-counter options.
What causes bunions?
Causes of a bunion can include genetics, structural abnormalities of the foot, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and long-term wearing of high heels or pointy shoes.
Do bunion correctors work?
No. While widely available and marketed as a solution for bunions, bunion correctors have very limited effectiveness. It’s essential to understand that bunions are a structural issue, and while these devices may provide some temporary relief, they won’t correct the root cause of the deformity.
Are bunions hereditary?
Yes, genetics plays a significant role in the development of bunions. If your parents or grandparents had bunions, you may have an increased risk of developing them as well. However, it’s important to note that other factors like footwear, foot mechanics, and lifestyle can also contribute to their development.
How can bunions be prevented?
If your bunion is not caused by heredity, you can help prevent the formation of bunions by wearing footwear that provides sufficient space and comfort for your feet. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box, ample instep space, and soft soles to ensure your toes are not compressed or restricted. It is advisable to avoid wearing high heels taller than 2 1/4 inches and steer clear of shoes with a tight fit, narrow point, or those that do not match the natural shape of your foot.
Can bunions be corrected without surgery?
Bunions can often be managed and improved without surgery, especially if they are detected early. However, the effectiveness of these approaches varies depending on the severity of the bunion and individual factors.
Here are some non-surgical methods to consider:
- Footwear
- Orthotics
- Padding and taping
- Physical therapy and exercises
- Medications
Is bunion surgery covered by insurance?
In many cases, bunion surgery is covered by insurance when it is deemed medically necessary. Medical necessity is typically based on the severity of the bunion, the impact it has on your daily life, and the failure of conservative treatments to provide relief.
Keep in mind that cosmetic bunion surgery, which is performed solely for aesthetic reasons, is typically not covered by insurance.
How long is recovery from bunion surgery?
The recovery time for bunion surgery may take from six months to a year or longer to achieve full recovery depending on the extent of the surgery, individual healing factors, overall health, and how well post-operative care instructions are followed.
Is bunion surgery painful?
Despite pre-surgical fear of pain and recovery, virtually all our patients report they essentially no pain and wish that they had surgical correction sooner and hadn’t put it off as long as they did.
Dr. Bob’s advances in surgical techniques drastically reduce recovery time, often allowing you to bear weight immediately.
Can you get a bunion on your pinky toe?
Bunions on the pinky toe are less common but not impossible. When a bony bump or prominence forms on the outer side of the foot near the base of the pinky toe, it is referred to as a tailor’s bunion or bunionette.
Can bunions cause leg pain?
Bunions themselves are primarily localized to the foot and affect the joint at the base of the big toe. However, in some cases, bunions can indirectly contribute to leg pain or discomfort due to altered gait and joint stress.
What are the best shoes for bunions?
What are the best shoes for bunions?
Choosing the right shoes for bunions is crucial to minimize discomfort and prevent further irritation. Here are some features to look for when selecting the best shoes for bunions:
- Wide Toe Box
- Low Heel or No Heel
- Flexible and Cushioned Soles
- Arch Support
- Adjustable Straps or Laces
- Soft and Breathable Materials
- Removable Insoles
- Orthopedic or Bunion-Specific Shoes
What are the benefits of bunion surgery for seniors?
Bunion surgery for seniors can offer significant foot pain relief and improve quality of life by correcting the foot’s alignment, reducing pain, and restoring mobility. Our surgeons are well-versed in bunion procedures for patients of all ages and can adjust surgery to make it a lower risk with shorter and easier recovery for seniors.
What happens if I do nothing about my bunion?
Early-stage bunion deformities will almost always get worse over time. Complications from an untreated bunion include:
- Increased discomfort and pain. Bunion progression cannot be stopped. Your bunion will cause increased swelling and pain, and the bump will appear more pronounced.
- Osteoarthritis or bursitis. As the joint shifts more and more, your joints are impacted and will eventually become very damaged. The cartilage will continue to deteriorate, and a minimally invasive surgical procedure may no longer be an option for you.
- Crossover Toe. As more time passes, many patients see that their second toe begins to cross over the first toe literally. This causes pain, calluses, and even ulcers in your second toe. More invasive surgical procedures are now your only option.
How can I tell how severe my bunion is?
A bunion can range from mild (a small bump at the base of your big toe) to severe (where the big toe angles sharply toward the others). The image below shows how bunions progress as the joint becomes more misaligned.
