Dr. Merrell K. Kauwe

Advanced Bunion Correction & Forefoot Surgery

Dr. Merrell K. Kauwe is a board-certified podiatric surgeon at Rimrock Podiatry specializing in advanced bunion correction and forefoot surgery. His particular expertise is in the Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction procedure — a surgical technique that addresses the root cause of bunions by correcting the unstable joint in three dimensions, rather than simply shaving down the visible bump. For patients who have struggled with bunion pain or been told their bunion will just come back after traditional surgery, Lapiplasty offers a fundamentally different approach with lower recurrence rates.

Contributing to Podiatric Research

Dr. Kauwe serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, one of the leading peer-reviewed publications in the field. In this role, he evaluates surgical research for scientific rigor and clinical relevance — contributing to the advancement of podiatric surgical best practices and ensuring that published studies meet the highest standards. This commitment to research keeps his clinical practice grounded in the latest evidence-based techniques.

Education & Training

Dr. Kauwe graduated from Utah Valley University before earning his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Des Moines University, one of the premier podiatric medical programs in the country. His training provided a strong foundation in both surgical technique and the comprehensive medical knowledge required to manage complex foot and ankle conditions.

A Personal Approach to Patient Care

Born in Hawaii and raised in Utah, Dr. Kauwe brings a unique perspective and genuine dedication to patient care. He is passionate about using the latest evidence-based surgical techniques to deliver the best possible outcomes for his patients. Whether performing a complex bunion correction or evaluating a patient for the first time, he takes the time to explain the diagnosis thoroughly, walk through every treatment option, and set clear expectations for recovery. Patients consistently appreciate his thoroughness and his ability to make complex surgical decisions feel understandable and approachable.