Bunion correction surgery
An operation to realign the joint of the big toe
If a bunion is causing you pain or problems walking, a simple surgical procedure could help
What is bunion correction surgery?
Bunion correction surgery can remove this bony lump, helping to realign your toes.
Need to know
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What happens during bunion correction surgery? icon plus
Your surgeon will usually take an X-ray to determine the extent of your bunion and decide on the best procedure for you. Surgery may be done under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the complexity of your procedure. Your surgeon will make sure you're as comfortable as possible for your operation.
During the procedure, the bony lump is removed and any deformity of the big toe joint is corrected. Loose ligaments can be tightened to realign your toe. Pins or screws are used to hold the toe in the correct position as it heals. The entire operation usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.
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How to prepare for surgery icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. If you're having general anaesthetic, your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
Post surgery recovery icon plus
You should be able to return home the same day as your surgery, although sometimes you may need to be cared for in hospital overnight. You may be in a plaster cast or just a bandage after your surgery.
You should be able to walk immediately, wearing lightweight over-shoes (a type of rubber boot usually slipped on top of shoes). You'll need to wear these for two weeks, after which you can switch to loose sandals or trainers, getting back to normal shoes at around six weeks.
Your consultant might recommend physiotherapy to help you recover. They will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise.
What is causing my foot pain?
Our foot and ankle surgeons
Our locations
From complex foot and ankle surgery to diagnostic scans and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park
Beaufort House, Elstree Road
Elstree WD6 3BS
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
Book a foot and ankle appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced foot and ankle consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344