Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/520989
which is a more appealing option to many patients. Then I do a plastic surgery closure." These side incisions are generally made along the demarcation line where the skin from the bottom and top of the foot come together, and are angled somewhat to gain access to the bones. To complete the procedure, Dr. Blitz uses fine sutures in the superficial layers of the skin incision. This method allows for minimal scarring and a more aesthetically pleasing result. Dr. Blitz demonstrates the Bunionplasty procedure to other foot and ankle surgeons to extend his reach to more patients, help patients overcome the pain associated with bunions and allow them to be mobile after surgery. Dr. Blitz can perform bunion surgery on both feet in one surgical setting as well (regardless of bunion size), still allowing patients to ambulate on their feet in merely a small surgical shoe. Revision Bunion Surgery About half of Dr. Blitz's practice consists of revision bunion surgery. There are several reasons a previous bunion surgery may have failed, including return of a bunion, malunion, excessive big toe shortening, severe stiffness of the big toe joint, and loss "Coping with painful bunions is a quality-of-life issue for patients. They can now walk immediately after surgery and get back to doing the activities they enjoy." — Neal M. Blitz, DPM, FACFAS BUNIONPLASTY BASICS 1. Surgery: same-day surgery 2. Anesthesia: local or regional with sedation 3. Postoperative ambulatory status: immediately in small surgical shoe (no cast, no crutches) 4. Follow-up: two weeks postoperatively for suture removal, six weeks postoperatively for bone healing checkup 5. Return to shoes: usually at six to eight weeks postoperatively of big toe purchase. Dr. Blitz is often able to use his plating system in a revision surgery to realign the bone. "Revision surgery is more complex than primary bunion surgery because often the initial surgery needs to be undone, then properly corrected," explains Dr. Blitz. "Performing revi- sions helps me refine my techniques for primary bunion surgery, as it allows me to better understa nd issues t hat lead to complications in the first place." Patient Experience P a t i e n t c a r e a n d outcomes remain at the forefront of Dr. Blitz's Park Avenue private practice. W h e n h e o p e n e d h i s state-of-the-art Manhattan office, his goal was to create an environment that was high-fashion, welcoming and peaceful. "We offer a full-service practice a nd believe in educating patients about the procedures so they understand what is happening to their feet," he says. "We want to meet their functional and cosmetic needs. My motto is that your feet should not only feel good but look good." Dr. Blitz demonstrates his empathy for patients' self-consciousness regarding their feet by providing a calming atmosphere and compassionate team. Years of working together allow Dr. Blitz and his team to better meet the needs of foot and ankle surgery patients. (L-R) Alvarez; Dr. Blitz; Dr. Wong The staff at Dr. Blitz's foot and ankle surgery practice. M D N E W S . CO M ■ MD NEWS Long Island | 9