KathJack

Unless your doctor says you need to be in a cast or walking boot, you should not need a wheelchair unless you want it for getting around outside. I had both feet done at once and was loaned a motorized chair which I used as my own personal mini-car to go places that were too far for me to walk. It was convenient, but not necessary. I could walk to the bathroom from Day One, but was told not to go any further than that for the first week. (Believe me, you won't want to anyway!-- Plus you need to elevate, elevate, elevate to reduce swelling.) Second week I could make it to the kitchen; after that I was able to be independent-- although I am glad I did not need to go back to work or care for children at that point. There were two threads in the spring of 2005 titled Double Bunionectomy Questions that related numerous people's experiences and had lots of helpful advice; you might want to check them out. I did not think pain for one foot vs. two was an issue. There was some pain, but it was moderate and did not last that long. The first week is the worst, but the right medications (and timing) made it very bearable. I was never in so much pain that I couldn't read, watch TV, converse, etc. and I'm a pretty big baby pain-wise. Driving would take a while-- at least two weeks, maybe four. That's why I enjoyed having the motorized wheelchair; I was able to get out and about when no one was available to drive me. I am very glad that I had both feet done at once, but it is a decision that has to be made with consideration of your circumstances, your doctor's restrictions, etc. I hope you get all the information you need to make the best choice for yourself.