Tailor Bunion Surgery Miami

Tailor bunion, also known as a “bunionette,” refers to the prominence at the base of the little toe. It’s less common than a standard bunion, which forms on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. The correction of a tailor bunion usually involves surgery.

AVERAGE COST

$3,500 - 5000

PROCEDURE TIME

20 – 40 Min

BACK TO WORK

2 week

FULL RECOVERY

6 weeks

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Tailor's-bunion-surgery

What is Tailor's bunion surgery?

A tailor’s bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a prominence of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. It’s similar to a regular bunion (hallux valgus), which occurs on the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. The term “tailor’s bunion” originates from the way tailors once sat cross-legged, with the outside edge of their feet rubbing on the ground, potentially causing a bump to develop.

Tailor bunion surgery is a procedure to correct this bony prominence and associated deformities. The surgery aims to alleviate pain, correct the alignment of the fifth metatarsal, and remove the bony prominence.

There are different types of procedures that can be performed to treat a tailor’s bunion, and the exact procedure chosen will depend on the severity of the deformity and the specific needs of the patient. Some common procedures include:

  1. Osteotomy: In this procedure, a surgical cut is made in the fifth metatarsal bone to realign it. The bone may be held in its new position with surgical pins, screws, or plates.

  2. Exostectomy: This procedure involves simply removing the bony prominence. It is often used for less severe deformities, but since it doesn’t address the root cause of the problem, the bunionette may come back over time.

  3. Arthrodesis: In more severe cases or when arthritis is present, the joint might be fused. This will prevent movement at that joint, but it can provide significant pain relief.

Types of Tailor Bunion Surgery

03 Fluoroscope C arm in protective case with television to broadcast in modern clinic operating room

Tailor bunion surgery, also known as bunionette surgery, aims to correct the prominence of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. There are several types of surgical procedures that can be performed to treat a tailor’s bunion, depending on the severity of the deformity and specific needs of the patient. Here are some common types:

  1. Osteotomy: This procedure involves making a surgical cut in the fifth metatarsal bone to realign it. Once the bone is properly aligned, it might be stabilized using pins, screws, or plates. There are various osteotomy techniques, and the specific one chosen depends on the nature and severity of the bunionette.

  2. Exostectomy: This is a simpler procedure where the bony prominence or the bump is removed. While it can relieve pain caused by shoe pressure, it doesn’t correct the alignment of the bone. Hence, there’s a risk that the bunionette might recur.

  3. Arthrodesis: For more severe cases or when there’s significant joint damage, the surgeon might fuse the joint of the affected toe. While this restricts movement at the joint, it can offer significant pain relief and stability.

  4. Soft Tissue Procedures: Sometimes, the ligaments and tendons surrounding the fifth metatarsal joint may need to be lengthened or tightened to help correct the deformity or enhance stability.

  5. Minimally Invasive Surgery: Advances in technology and surgical techniques have led to procedures that involve smaller incisions and less tissue disruption. These techniques can result in quicker recovery times and less post-operative pain.

It’s worth noting that the choice of surgical procedure should be based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s foot and specific condition. The success of the surgery is also influenced by post-operative care, adherence to recovery guidelines, and sometimes physical therapy.

If one is considering surgery, a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist who specializes in foot and ankle surgery is essential to understand the best surgical option and the potential outcomes.

 

Traditional Tailor Bunion Surgery

In this surgical procedure, traditional open-surgery methods are employed. A more extensive incision is made to extract the bony growth. The fifth metatarsal bone is cut, and its position is secured using a screw, pin, or plate. 

The surgical wound is then stitched up. Post-surgery, patients typically depart wearing a cast and rely on crutches for a few weeks to avoid putting weight on their feet. It’s crucial not to bear weight on the healing foot, as it might shift the bone, leading to improper healing.

Minimally Invasive Tailor Bunion Surgery

This surgical procedure is commonly referred to as percutaneous or minimal incision surgery. Specialized instruments enable the surgery to be carried out through a tiny 3 to 5 mm opening in the protrusion. 

This method reduces trauma, leading to minimal swelling, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery for the patient. The surgery is conducted under fluoroscopic guidance, allowing the surgeon to navigate carefully around neighboring structures to the deformity.

Here’s a comparison between Traditional Tailor Bunion Surgery and Minimally Invasive Tailor Bunion Surgery:

AspectTraditional Tailor Bunion SurgeryMinimally Invasive Tailor Bunion Surgery
Incision SizeLarger incisions are made, often leading to more visible scars.Small incisions of about 3 to 5 mm, leading to minimal scarring.
Surgical ToolsStandard surgical tools.Specialized instruments for precision.
TraumaMore trauma due to larger incisions, which can lead to greater swelling.Reduced trauma, leading to minimal swelling.
Pain Level Post-SurgeryMight experience more pain due to larger incisions and trauma.Typically less pain due to smaller incisions and minimized trauma.
Recovery TimeGenerally longer, with the need to wear a cast and use crutches.Faster recovery time.
Weight-bearing Post-SurgeryPatients must avoid weight on the foot for several weeks.Weight-bearing restrictions may be less stringent or of shorter duration.
Visualization during SurgeryTraditional visual assessment.Fluoroscopic vision assists the surgeon in navigating around structures.
Potential for ComplicationsPotential for issues related to larger incisions, like infection or incorrect healing.Reduced potential complications due to minimally invasive nature.

Note: The specific outcomes and experiences can vary based on the individual patient, the surgeon’s expertise, and the specific circumstances of the surgery. Always consult with a medical professional for detailed information and advice.

Who Needs Tailor Bunion Surgery?

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Tailor bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bony prominence that forms on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. While not everyone with a tailor bunion requires surgery, certain situations may warrant it. Here’s who might need tailor bunion surgery:

  1. Pain and Discomfort: If someone is experiencing consistent and severe pain that isn’t relieved with non-surgical treatments, surgery might be recommended.

  2. Chronic Inflammation: If there’s recurring swelling, redness, and tenderness despite conservative treatments, surgical intervention might be considered.

  3. Deformity Progression: If the tailor bunion is growing or the little toe is drifting more and causing a significant deformity, surgery might be needed.

  4. Restricted Movement: If the mobility of the toe gets severely limited or if there’s stiffness in the joint, it might be a sign that surgical correction is necessary.

  5. Non-Responsive to Conservative Treatments: For individuals who don’t find relief with conservative treatments like padding, orthotics, footwear modifications, or anti-inflammatory medications.

  6. Activity Limitation: When a person’s daily activities, including walking or wearing regular shoes, become painful or severely restricted due to the bunionette.

  7. Footwear Issues: Persistent difficulty or inability to wear shoes without pain or discomfort can be a sign that surgical intervention might be beneficial.

  8. Cosmetic Concerns: In rare cases, some individuals might opt for surgery due to cosmetic concerns, especially if the bunionette is particularly prominent.

Goals of Tailor Bunion Surgery

The primary goals of tailor bunion surgery, much like any corrective surgical procedure, are to address the underlying issue, relieve symptoms, and improve function. Specifically, the objectives include:

  1. Relieve Pain: One of the primary goals is to alleviate pain caused by the bunionette, allowing the patient to engage in daily activities more comfortably.

  2. Correct Deformity: Restoring the normal alignment of the fifth metatarsal bone and the little toe is fundamental. This often involves repositioning the protruding bone and realigning the joint.

  3. Restore Function: The surgery aims to bring back the natural function of the little toe and adjacent structures, allowing for a normal range of motion.

  4. Prevent Progression: By addressing the underlying structural issues, the surgery seeks to prevent or slow down the progression of the deformity.

  5. Reduce Inflammation and Irritation: The surgery aims to eliminate sources of persistent inflammation and irritation in the affected area, often caused by shoes rubbing against the bunionette.

  6. Improve Footwear Comfort: A successful surgery should allow patients to wear shoes more comfortably, without experiencing pain or discomfort from pressure on the bunionette.

  7. Enhance Cosmetic Appearance: While not always the primary goal, improving the external appearance of the foot can be an additional benefit for some patients who are self-conscious about the prominence.

  8. Prevent or Address Complications: Addressing associated issues, such as bursitis (inflammation of the small fluid-filled sac near the joint), hammertoe deformities, or calluses that can arise due to the tailor bunion.

  9. Long-term Stability: The surgery aims to provide a durable solution that prevents recurrence and offers lasting relief.

  10. Improve Quality of Life: Ultimately, by addressing pain, discomfort, and functional limitations, the surgery seeks to improve the overall quality of life for the patient.

Tailor Bunion Surgery Cost

The cost of tailor bunion surgery fluctuates based on several determinants, including the facility where it’s conducted, the expertise of the doctors, and the severity of the foot deformity in the patient. Generally, the expense for tailor bunion surgery aligns with or is slightly lower than that for standard bunion surgery. Some health insurance plans may cover this procedure. 

If covered, patients might face a lower deductible, around $500, or a higher one, contingent upon the specifics of their plan. Here’s a breakdown of the tailor bunion surgery costs considering the aforementioned factors:

  • Between $1,500 and $10,000 in hospital costs.
  • Between $500 and $1500 in anesthesia costs.
  • Between $500 and $1500 for the cost of the equipment.
  • Between $750 and $1500 in surgeon’s fees.

In conclusion, we can say that a tailor bunion surgery in Miami has a cost that ranges between $3,250 and $6,500

How much recovery time do I need after tailor bunion surgery?

The estimated recovery period following tailor bunion surgery is between 4 to 6 weeks. The exact duration within this range varies based on each individual’s healing rate. Recovery unfolds in multiple stages, progressively restoring the foot’s regular functions. Let’s delve into the phases of recovery.

The patient receives a sturdy, cushioned shoe designed to shift the body’s weight onto the heel, safeguarding the operated area. The clinic’s physiotherapist will guide the patient on the proper use of crutches to prevent placing body weight on the feet. Customized exercises are also provided for the patient to undertake at home when they feel prepared to do so.

During the initial two weeks, it’s advisable to give the foot ample rest. By the end of the first week, the most intense postoperative pain should subside. As the second week progresses, and as the patient feels comfortable, they can start walking short distances within the house. It’s essential to continue wearing the specialized shoes provided post-surgery for these initial strolls. During this period, patients should also engage in the recommended physiotherapy exercises and frequently move their toes.

Now is the appropriate period to begin using the fifth toe alignment splint, which should be worn for the upcoming three to four weeks. Continuation of the toe flexion exercises remains crucial at this juncture. These exercises aid in mitigating the aftereffects of surgical discomfort and also deter the joints from stiffening due to inactivity.

At this point, the patient can transition back to wearing regular flat shoes and take short walks in them. When selecting footwear, it’s important to consider that the feet might still experience inflammation. By the sixth week, light physical activities and driving can commence. However, it’s crucial to exercise moderation and refrain from lengthy walks.

Around six weeks post tailor’s bunion surgery, you should be able to walk naturally and engage in high-impact sports. Furthermore, you’ll have the freedom to choose any type of footwear, including high heels.

Tailor Bunion Surgery Benefits

Here are some of the notable advantages of tailor bunion surgery:

  • The procedure is outpatient-based; patients can head home on the day of the surgery, eliminating the need for hospital stays.
  • The minimally invasive approach ensures that there’s no conspicuous scarring post-surgery.
  • The protrusion on the fifth metatarsal head is eradicated.
  • Pain stemming from the bunion is alleviated.
  • Enhances the overall appearance of the foot.
  • Facilitates wearing shoes again without any discomfort.
  • The procedure is designed to be as pain-free as possible.
  • The surgery itself is swift to execute.
  • The natural alignment of the fifth toe is re-established.
 

Possible Risks of Tailor Bunion Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, tailor bunion surgery is not without its risks. While most surgeries are successful and complications are rare, it’s essential to be informed of the potential issues that might arise. Here are the possible risks associated with tailor bunion surgery:

  1. Infection: Any surgical incision poses a risk of infection. Proper wound care and following post-operative instructions can help minimize this risk.

  2. Delayed or Poor Bone Healing: Sometimes, the bones may take longer than expected to heal, or they might not heal correctly. This could require additional treatment or surgery.

  3. Nerve Damage: There’s a possibility of damaging the nerves near the surgical site, leading to numbness, tingling, or chronic pain.

  4. Recurrence of the Bunionette: The bunion could come back over time, even after a surgical correction.

  5. Stiffness: Some patients might experience stiffness in the joint following the surgery.

  6. Scarring: While minimally invasive procedures aim to reduce visible scarring, some scarring is still possible.

  7. Overcorrection or Undercorrection: The surgery might result in the toe being positioned too inward or outward, which might require further treatment.

  8. Prolonged Swelling or Pain: Some patients might experience swelling or pain that lasts longer than typical.

  9. Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: As with any surgery that requires anesthesia, there’s a risk of adverse reactions or complications related to the anesthesia.

  10. Blood Clots: There’s a possibility, though rare, of developing blood clots in the legs, which could travel to the lungs and become life-threatening.

  11. Chronic Pain: Some patients might experience prolonged pain at the surgical site or in the adjacent areas.

  12. Complications from Hardware: If screws, pins, or plates are used during the surgery, they might become loose or cause discomfort, necessitating another procedure for removal.

It’s important for patients to discuss all potential risks and benefits with their surgeon. Thoroughly understanding the procedure, following pre-surgical and post-surgical instructions, and attending all follow-up appointments can help mitigate many of these risks.

Causes of a tailor bunion

Today, the causes of a tailor bunion are understood to be multifaceted. While historically the condition was linked to the seated, cross-legged posture of seamstresses (which inspired the name), modern understanding recognizes that there’s more to its onset than just mechanical causes. Genetic factors, the type of shoes worn, and an inherent predisposition of the fifth metatarsal to develop this deformity all contribute. Contrary to some beliefs, a tailor bunion isn’t the result of bone growth, calcium deposits, or a bone tumor. The condition can arise from any of the mentioned factors.

Hereditary factors

Flat foot

Inverted foot

Ligamentous laxity

Muscle tension

Footwear

Causes of a tailor bunion

Today, the causes of a tailor bunion are understood to be multifaceted. While historically the condition was linked to the seated, cross-legged posture of seamstresses (which inspired the name), modern understanding recognizes that there’s more to its onset than just mechanical causes. Genetic factors, the type of shoes worn, and an inherent predisposition of the fifth metatarsal to develop this deformity all contribute. Contrary to some beliefs, a tailor bunion isn’t the result of bone growth, calcium deposits, or a bone tumor. The condition can arise from any of the mentioned factors.

Hereditary factors

Flat foot

Inverted foot

Ligamentous laxity

Muscle tension

Footwear

What is the success rate of tailor bunion surgery?

Statistical data indicates that tailor bunion surgery boasts an 85% success rate. Of the 15% that don’t achieve full success, 12% see improvements but may still face restrictions in wearing specific footwear or performing certain activities. The surgery doesn’t yield improvements for the residual 3%, yet their condition remains stable without further deterioration. Overall, the efficacy of tailor’s bunion surgery is notably high.

Why is it painful to have a tailor bunion without surgery?

While tailor bunions might not always lead to pain, they can become extremely uncomfortable for some. It’s often when the pain becomes significant that surgery is considered as a solution. As the bunion grows larger, it can cause discomfort and pain, especially during walking. This condition can make even simple movements challenging. Additionally, the bunion can lead to tighter footwear due to its pressure, causing further unease. A callus may also form on the joint’s lower, outer region, adding to the discomfort. Surgical intervention aims to alleviate these issues.

How long does tailor bunion surgery take?

Tailor bunion surgery typically takes between 20 minutes and 1 hour. The time depends on how complicated the patient’s deformity is. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the times of going into and leaving the clinic. Patients typically arrive 1 hour in advance so paperwork can be reviewed and preparations made before entering the operating room. When the surgeon enters the operating room, he will indicate the correct position that the patient must take on the stretcher. The rest will depend on the skill of the surgeon to surgically solve the tailor’s bunion.

What studies do I need to undertake before tailor bunion surgery?

Generally, a tailor’s bunion is very easy to diagnose, due to the very characteristic appearance that the foot acquires. Before surgery, some studies are performed, such as x-rays, to determine the cause of the disorder and the degree of foot deformity. Some other tests may also be done to determine the general health conditions of the patient.

Next, the surgeon will draw up a plan on how to perform the operation. It is important that patients indicate if they are allergic to metals or any substances, or if they have ever had a complication during surgery. You must also declare if there are problems with smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction, or any kind of substance or supplement.

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