Quotes
MRS C S, CAMBRIDGE, ON HER TOE SHORTENING PROCEDURE:
"I have wanted my big toes shortened for many years but was put off at the thought off the pain I would have to entail however I decided to go ahead after the reassurance Mr H gave me at my first consultation. Mr H answered all my questions & explained fully what the whole procedure would involve as well as the post op care. The operation itself was so relaxed & over so quick & for having both feet operated on at once was certainly the best decision as was advised. Now 3 months on I cannot express how happy I...
This is one of the most commonly undertaken procedure in our practice and was pioneered by us.
This is one of the most commonly undertaken procedure in our practice and was pioneered by us.
These patients usually suffer with toes which are over long and complain they cause rubbing in shoes and have real difficulty finding shoes to fit comfortably as well as the aesthetic appearance. Commonly it is the 2nd and 3rd toes which are longer than the big toe and this affects men as well as women.
As well as causing some people embarrassment because they dislike the way their feet look, longer toes also commonly cause discomfort. As a consequence of not being able to find shoes which fit properly the toes compensate by clawing to keep the shoes in place. This can then cause painful corns and lumps underneath the skin called bursitis, which form over the small knuckles of the toes.
Patients
Toe Shortening Patients
Recovery Following Surgery
Recovery Following Surgery:
After the surgery walking carefully but only on the heels with crutches is allowed for the first week. A surgical shoe is provided for this period. 7-14 days after the surgery, the patient is seen for a dressing change and at 2-weeks the stitches are removed. During the first two weeks, in order to minimize swelling, ice packs should be applied and the feet should be elevated as much as possible. After the bulky dressing is removed, the foot can be placed in a roomy shoe such as a trainer, Ugg boots or strappy sandal; and full weight-bearing is allowed.
Pain medication is provided for a few days post-surgery. Swelling may will persist up to 6-months after surgery and you will have to modify your footwear to accommodate this initially. Driving is permitted after 2-weeks as is working if you have a desk-type job. We advise the use of various scar-care products, which can be discussed after surgery.
The results are usually permanent and functionally and cosmetically pleasing; but it should be noted that the toe will be stiffer and the middle joint won’t flex afterwards. Functionally, this does not impair your ability to exercise or play sports.