Toe Shortening / Toe Lengthening

Why do people seek out toe shortening and toe lengthening surgery?

In many cases, people sit down with a surgeon to discuss ways to improve the appearance of their toes. While some minor variation between the length of toes is normal, some people have toes that are significantly longer or shorter than the surrounding toes. They often feel uncomfortable being barefoot or wearing shoes that expose their toes. 

Abnormally long or short toes can also cause pain. When your toes rub against the tops or sides of your shoes, that friction can lead to problems with your skin and even issues with the bones and connective tissues of the toes. 

If you’d like to improve the appearance of your feet or experience pain or discomfort due to abnormally long or short toes, reach out to The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute to book a consultation. 

What is brachymetatarsia, and how can toe lengthening surgery help?

Brachymetatarsia is a structural abnormality where some of the metatarsal bones in the foot are much shorter than the others, causing one or more toes to be misaligned with the surrounding toes. 

This condition can cause an uneven distribution of weight when walking or standing, eventually leading to calluses or ulcers on the feet. Some people experience pain when walking or running and cannot wear normal shoes without discomfort. 

Toe lengthening surgery can help. After administering a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable, your surgeon carefully breaks the bone in your toe. A bone graft can be placed to lengthen the toe, or an external fixator can be attached to gradually lengthen the bone over several months. 

Toe shortening surgery works by removing a portion of the bone in an abnormally long toe. Alteration to the tendons and other surrounding tissues might also be needed. 

What is the recovery process like after toe shortening and toe lengthening surgery?

Today’s surgical tools and techniques make the recovery process far easier than it was in decades past. Recovery times are shorter, the risk of complications is lower, and you can get back on your feet far more swiftly. 

Your specialist will explain the recovery process in detail prior to your procedure. You’ll receive all the information you need to plan for a successful recovery process. 

When you’re ready to explore toe shortening-toe lengthening procedures in greater detail, call the office to book a visit or schedule online.