That depends. Some bunion surgery does not require you to be in a cast. You will need a special shoe, a post-operative shoe, to wear for a period of time. Once there is healing noted on the x-rays, you will be able to wear an athletic shoe for a few more weeks then progress into normal shoe wear.
Some surgeries for bunions, or Hallux Abducto Valgus, do require you to be in a cast for about 4-6 weeks. Some people can use a roll about or crutches during this time; others can put weight on the foot in the cast and walk around. It all depends on what procedures were necessary to perform.
If you are suffering from a painful bunion, see Dr. Harvey Danciger for an evaluation, diagnosis and discussion of your surgical and non-surgical treatment options. He is located in Palm Desert, CA. Call now for an appointment (760) 568-0108.