Toe Surgery FAQs

They differ by which joint is bent. A hammer toe bends at the middle joint, a mallet toe at the joint nearest the nail, and a claw toe curls at several joints, often in more than one toe. See claw toe vs hammer toe vs mallet toe.

Wider, deeper shoes, toe protectors, padding and insoles can ease pain and may slow a flexible toe from getting worse, but they do not permanently straighten it. Surgery is the only way to correct the deformity.

Morton’s toe is a second toe that is longer than the big toe. A long toe can be shortened by removing a small section of bone so it sits in line with its neighbours. See toe shortening surgery.

When pain continues despite sensible footwear, the toe has become stiff, corns keep returning, or the deformity is getting worse. Correcting a toe while it is still flexible often allows a smaller operation.

Most toe surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic, with sedation if you prefer. It is day surgery, so you go home the same day.

The toe is corrected through incisions of a few millimetres under X-ray guidance, which means smaller scars and often no wires protruding from the toe. It suits many, but not all, toes. See keyhole toe surgery.

Not always. Some toes are best held with a fine temporary wire, which is removed in clinic at four to six weeks. Many can be corrected with a small internal implant or keyhole techniques, so nothing protrudes.

Yes. A bunion often pushes the second toe out of position, and correcting both together usually gives the most lasting result. Mr Nazir regularly combines keyhole bunion and toe correction in one operation.

Often, yes. Some patients prefer one foot at a time so they have a comfortable foot to walk on during the first weeks. Mr Nazir will discuss what suits your work and home life.

Risks include infection, prolonged swelling, stiffness, recurrence, a toe that sits slightly raised, numbness near the scar, delayed bone healing and, rarely, problems with blood supply to the toe or blood clots. These are explained fully at consultation.

Yes. You walk on the foot the same day in a protective post-operative shoe. Resting with the foot raised for the first two weeks gives the best result.

Desk-based work is often possible from about two weeks. Jobs that keep you on your feet may need four to six weeks.

Once you are out of the post-operative shoe and can perform an emergency stop safely. Surgery on the left foot in an automatic car may allow an earlier return. Always check with your insurer.

Some swelling, especially at the end of the day, is normal for three to six months. The final shape of the toe is usually clear at around four to six months. See the recovery guide.

Surgery to correct a painful toe deformity is generally covered by UK private medical insurers. Purely cosmetic procedures are not usually covered. Check your policy and obtain pre-authorisation before your consultation.

It depends on the number of toes, one or both feet and the technique. You receive a written estimate after assessment, and monthly payment plans are available. See costs and insurance.

Yes. Video consultations are available for patients across the UK, and many patients travel to London for surgery and return home the same day.

Book a consultation online, use the enquiry form below, or call the practice on 0207 820 8007.