Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Bunionectomy | $3,500 – $8,000 | $800 – $2,000 |
| Osteotomy Bunionectomy | $5,000 – $10,000 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction | $6,000 – $12,000 | $1,200 – $3,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: 28296
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Medically necessary — covered when causing pain or functional limitation
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Bunion surgery costs $3,500 to $12,000 without insurance depending on the severity and surgical technique used.
Most patients are in a boot for 4-6 weeks. Full recovery and return to regular shoes takes 3-6 months.
Yes, bunion surgery is covered when medically necessary due to pain and functional limitation that has not responded to conservative treatment.