Tailor’s bunion surgery

Tailor’s bunion surgery treats a painful prominence at the base of the little toe when wider footwear and other non-surgical care have not helped.

Tailor’s bunion surgery overview

Tailor’s bunion surgery treats a painful prominence at the base of the little toe when wider footwear and other non-surgical care have not helped.

How is surgery carried out?

This is usually day-case surgery under anaesthetic. The surgeon removes the prominent bone and may cut and reposition the fifth metatarsal to narrow the foot and improve alignment, securing it with a screw.

 

Are there any risks?

All surgery carries some risk. Possible complications include:

  • Infection or wound problems
  • Blood clots
  • Nerve irritation or numbness
  • Stiffness or persistent swelling
  • The bone healing slowly or not in the planned position
  • The deformity returning or pain continuing

Your surgeon will explain how these risks apply to you and the steps taken to reduce them.

 

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Tailor’s bunion surgery overview

Recovery from tailor’s bunion surgery

First 2 weeks

Phase 1

Keep the dressing dry, elevate the foot and use the hospital shoe as advised.

2 to 6 weeks

Phase 2

Your bandages are usually removed at two weeks. Continue protecting the foot; the shoe is commonly removed after examination and an X-ray at six weeks.

6 to 12 weeks

Phase 3

Move gradually into your own shoes and rebuild walking and activity. A final review is commonly arranged around 12 weeks.

Working with foot and ankle professionals and teams

Our foot and ankle specialists support professional athletes, sports teams, active individuals and people whose work places high demands on their feet and ankles. Working closely with radiologists, physiotherapists and the wider multidisciplinary team, they provide coordinated care from diagnosis through to rehabilitation, helping each person return safely to sport, work or everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or recovery goals.

 

Working with foot and ankle professionals and teams

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

Tailor’s bunion surgery FAQs

You can return to driving when you are no longer using medication that affects alertness, can control the vehicle safely and can perform an emergency stop comfortably. Check with your surgeon and motor insurer before you drive.

 

This depends on your operation, recovery and type of work. Desk-based work may be possible sooner than a role involving prolonged standing, walking, lifting or driving. Your care team will give you personalised advice.

 

Return gradually and only when your surgeon or physiotherapist is satisfied with your healing, movement, strength and control. The type of sport and the procedure you had will shape the timing.

 

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