Can bunions be fixed without surgery?

Non-surgical treatments like orthotics and wider shoes can manage the *pain*, but they cannot reverse the bony deformity. Only surgery can physically realign the bones.

How long will I be off work?

For desk jobs, 1-2 weeks (if you can elevate your foot). For jobs requiring standing or walking, you may need 6-8 weeks.

When can I drive again?

Usually at 6-8 weeks, once you can safely perform an emergency stop and are no longer in the post-operative shoe.

How much does private bunion surgery cost?

At Kinvara Hospital, fixed-price packages for bunion correction typically range from £4,200 to £5,500 depending on the technique used.

Will the screws need to be removed?

No. The tiny titanium screws are designed to stay in permanently. They rarely cause irritation and do not set off airport security.

Is minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery better?

It offers smaller scars and often less initial pain, but it isn't suitable for all types of bunions. Your surgeon will recommend the best method for your specific case.

Can I have both feet done at the same time?

It is possible, but we usually recommend doing one foot at a time to ensure you have one 'good' foot to help with mobility and balance during recovery.

Will I have a large scar?

Keyhole surgery uses tiny portals. Traditional surgery uses a 5-7cm scar on the side of the foot, which typically fades into a faint line over time.

Can I wear high heels after bunion surgery?

We recommend avoiding high heels for at least 6 months. Long-term, high heels can contribute to a bunion returning, so they should be worn sparingly.

How soon can I return to the gym?

Upper body work can start at 2 weeks. Stationary cycling and swimming can usually start at 6 weeks once the bone has healed.

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Bunion Surgery (Hallux Valgus) in Rotherham

CQC Good RatedConsultant-Led CareAll-Inclusive PricingNo GP Referral0% Finance Available

At Kinvara Private Hospital in Rotherham, our foot and ankle specialists are experts in correcting these misalignments using the latest surgical advancements. Serving patients in Sheffield, Doncaster, and the wider region, Kinvara Hospital offers a personalized approach to bunion correction.

Medically Reviewed By

Mr Vasu Karri, MBBS, BSc(Hons), MSc, FRCS(Plast) • Updated 2026-01-17

From £5,585

All inclusive price

0% finance over 12 months, find out more

Bunion surgery (bunionectomy) corrects the bony protrusion at the base of the big toe. We offer advanced minimally invasive 'keyhole' techniques and traditional realignment surgeries to eliminate pain and restore the natural shape of your foot. This condition affects many people across Yorkshire, impacting their daily activities and quality of life. Early intervention and expert treatment are essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

At Kinvara Private Hospital in Rotherham, our experienced orthopaedic consultants provide comprehensive bunion surgery (hallux valgus) services using the latest minimally invasive techniques and evidence-based protocols. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive personalized care tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle goals.

Serving patients across Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, and the wider Yorkshire region, we understand the impact that foot-and-ankle conditions can have on your daily life. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes through expert diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive rehabilitation support.

When to Consider Surgery

Bunions are progressive and won't disappear on their own. You should consider surgery if:
• Your bunion pain prevents you from walking or exercising comfortably.
• You have difficulty finding shoes that don't cause pain or blisters.
• Your big toe is pushing your second toe out of alignment (causing a hammertoe).
• Conservative treatments like bunion pads or wider shoes no longer provide relief.
• Your bunion is causing persistent inflammation or skin breakdown.

Our All-Inclusive Promise

Fixed-price packages for all bunion correction techniques
All hospital, consultant surgeon, and anaesthetic fees included
Post-operative walking boot and specialist dressings provided
Inclusive follow-up appointments and X-rays
Transparent pricing with 0% finance options

Types of Bunion Correction

Bunion surgery is not a 'one-size-fits-all' procedure. At Kinvara Hospital, we match the technique to the severity of your deformity.
[Image showing the skeletal realignment during a bunionectomy]
• Minimally Invasive (Keyhole) Surgery: This technique uses 1-3mm incisions and specialized tools guided by X-rays. It minimizes tissue damage and results in less post-op pain.
• Scarf & Akin Osteotomy: The 'Gold Standard' for moderate to severe bunions. The metatarsal bone is cut, shifted into a straight position, and held with tiny internal screws.
• Lapidus Fusion: For patients with very 'hypermobile' or loose joints, the first metatarsal is fused to a bone in the midfoot to provide a permanent, stable foundation.
Our surgeons focus on restoring the 'mechanical axis' of the foot, ensuring that your weight is distributed evenly across all your toes once again.

At a Glance

Surgery Duration

60 - 90 minutes

Anaesthetic

General or Local + Sedation

Hospital Stay

Day Case

Walking Again

Same Day (in a boot)

Success Rate

High (>90%)

Full Recovery

6 - 12 weeks

Benefits of This Procedure

Eliminates chronic pain and inflammation at the big toe joint
Restores the foot's natural shape, making it easier to fit into normal shoes
Prevents secondary deformities like hammertoes and metatarsalgia
Minimally invasive options offer significantly smaller scars and less swelling
Improves walking gait and overall balance
Consultant-led care with integrated post-operative physiotherapy

The Procedure

The goal of surgery is to realign the bones and balance the soft tissues around the big toe.

1
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic or local block for comfort.
2
An incision is made (or small portals for keyhole surgery).
3
The bony 'bump' is removed (exostectomy).
4
The metatarsal bone is cut (osteotomy) and shifted back into a straight alignment.
5
Small, biocompatible titanium screws are used to hold the bone in its new position.
6
The tight ligaments on one side of the joint are released, and loose ones on the other side are tightened.
7
The wound is closed and a specialized 'bunion bandage' is applied to maintain the straight position.

The Recovery Pathway

Recovery Timeline

Week 0-2

You can walk on your heel in a specialized flat shoe. Elevation is vital to reduce swelling.

Week 2-6

Bandages are removed. You begin gentle toe-wiggling exercises to prevent stiffness.

Week 6-12

You can usually transition back to wide, comfortable trainers. Swelling will slowly subside.

Month 6

Full recovery. You can return to high-impact activities and a wider range of footwear.

Key Recovery Points

Swelling is the 'last thing to leave' and can persist for several months
You must wear the post-op shoe as instructed to protect the bone while it heals
Physiotherapy is essential to regain flexibility in the big toe joint
Avoid narrow or high-heeled shoes for at least 3-6 months

Risks and Complications

Bunion surgery is highly effective, though risks include:

Recurrence

Low (5-8%)

The bunion can return over time, especially if supportive footwear isn't worn.

Joint Stiffness

Moderate

Persistent stiffness in the big toe joint; managed with physiotherapy.

Nerve Irritation

Low

Numbness around the scar or on the side of the toe.

Infection

Very Rare (<1%)

Minimized by sterile hospital environments and post-op care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Orthopaedic Consultants

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