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The Definitive Guide to Tailor's Bunion Surgery and Recovery

Date published: 2024-09-18

A tailor’s bunion, referred to as a bunionette, is where you develop a bony outgrowth located on the outside of your foot, closer to the little toe. Surgery may be recommended to remove the bony growth and realign the fifth toe.

Understanding tailor’s bunion surgery

Our surgeon, Mr Kaser Nazir's favours the osteotomy procedure to correct a Tailor's bunion deformity. The osteotomy procedure has three key stages:

1. Bony bump is shaved

2. The head of the bone is cut and shifted inwards

3. A screw fixation is used to stabilise the the new bone position.

In some cases an exostectomy procedure may be carried out, where the bony growth is shaved, no fixation is used during this surgery.

Both surgeries are relatively quick and can be carried out under local anaesthesia or sedation. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you to find which is most suitable.

Preparing for tailor’s bunion surgery

Prior to surgery a consultation and X-rays are necessary, this is to determine the extent and angle of the deformity. Your bunion surgeon will discuss the procedure and recovery.

It is important to prepare your home to make sure you can rest as much as possible following surgery. Ask a friend or family member to help you where possible.

Tailor’s bunion surgery recovery timeline

Following the Tailor's bunion osteotomy procedure you will require complete rest for the first two-four days. Your surgeon will provide you with crutches and a postoperative shoe to help you mobilise. At two weeks you will be able to return to work and most activities. It is advised that you wait until three months before returning to high impact activites.

Potential complications and risks

As with all surgery the Tailor's bunion osteotomy procedure has risks involved. The following are the biggest risks and complications associated:

• infection

• delayed healing

• nerve damage

• swelling

• stiffness

• persistent pain

• recurrence of the operated deformity

If you experience any problems, contact Mr Kaser Nazir to discuss.

Conclusion

Tailor’s bunion surgery provides you with relief from the discomfort that is usually associated with bunionette deformities. You need to understand the surgical process, prepare for the recovery period, and also be diligent in following the post-operative care instructions so that the surgery is successful.