Treatment

Foot Surgery: Surgical Settings

Choose a preferred language

Your healthcare provider can tell you where your surgery will be done. You will also be told the type of anesthesia you’ll be given during surgery. The anesthesia keeps you pain-free during the procedure. A local anesthetic may be used to numb a part of your foot or to block feeling from your ankle to your toes. Or you may be given a local anesthetic with sedatives. It keeps you relaxed but awake during surgery. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used. It lets you sleep through the surgery.

Healthcare provider with digital tablet talking to woman.


Office

Many outpatient (same-day) surgeries can be done in your healthcare provider's office. You can go home the same day. You may be given a local anesthetic.


Same-day surgery facility

A surgery center handles more involved outpatient procedures. You will stay there for a few hours and go home later that day. You may be given a local anesthetic and sedatives . Or you may be given general anesthesia alone.


Hospital

Some surgeries may need to be done in a hospital. Your stay there can be for 1 or more days. You may get a local anesthetic along with sedatives. Or you may be given general anesthesia alone.

Featured in

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find the right providers for your needs.

CalOptima Health works with thousands of Orange County providers, including doctors, specialists, health networks, medical groups and more.

Find a Doctor

See Member Health Rewards

CalOptima Health offers health rewards to eligible CalOptima Health members who take an active role in their well-being!

View available rewards
Related Articles
Read article
Surgery
Understanding Facial Feminization Surgery

Facial feminization surgery includes plastic and craniofacial surgeries that soften facial features. Learn more here about how and why it's done plus questions you may have for your provider.

Read article
Orthopedics
Foot Surgery: Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump. When the distance between the first and second metatarsal bones of the foot is greater than normal, the big toe may turn toward the other toes. A mild bunion may then form causing foot pain and swelling. Bunions are most often found near the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions tend to run in families. They may cause pain, swelling, and skin irritation.

Read article
Surgery
How to Empty Your Drain After Surgery

Here are images showing how to empty your drain after surgery.

Read article
Surgery
Discharge from Outpatient Surgery

This sheet will help you learn what to expect after your outpatient surgery. It covers medicines, recovering at home, and follow-up care.