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In some cases, people undergo foot surgery because of a health-related problem. In other cases, people are getting their feet cosmetically altered in order to fit into stylish shoes more comfortably. Is this appropriate? In my opinion, one should never attempt to “fix something that isn’t broken”. Still, cosmetic foot surgery is on the rise.

In this article I will introduce several different types of surgeries performed on the foot. Some are health-related while others are cosmetic. I will also address the problems that can sometimes lead to foot surgery. Furthermore, I will discuss foot surgery cost, and foot surgery recovery times associated with each procedure.

Bunions - A humorous term that is easily associated with “old lady feet”. In all reality, however, bunions can lead to physical deformities of the feet, as well as considerable pain. Bunions are usually located on the top or side of the big toe joint, but can appear on the ball of the foot as well. They also make wearing shoes almost unbearable. So, what does one do if they find themselves suffering from bunions? In most cases, surgery is the best option.

Bunion surgery consists of removing those painful bumps. The surgery is performed to alleviate the pain in the big toe joint. An incision, whenever possible, is made on the side of the foot to minimize scarring. Sometimes, however, the incision must be made on the top of the foot. Recovery from bunion surgery may take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the amount of soft tissue and bone that was affected. Full bunion surgery recovery and healing may take as much as 1 year, since the foot is used so often. After surgery, the patient must keep the foot covered while bathing or showering to keep the stitches dry. Stitches from the surgery are usually removed within 7-21 days. Further, it may take 4-5 weeks before the patient can return to wearing normal shoes. 6-8 weeks after the surgery, the patient will be able to resume most of their normal activities. There is no guarantee that bunion surgery will completely or permanently relieve the patient of pain. Bunion surgery costs can range from $3,500 to $4,000. In most cases, insurance will cover all or most of the cost.

Flat foot is a disorder in which the arch on the inside of the foot is much flatter than usual. This deformity can appear in all age groups, but is most commonly found in children. Surgery to correct this problem is only done in severe cases of flat foot. Different techniques and procedures are used in flat foot surgery, depending on the particular type of flat foot and the degree of deformity. The cost of flat foot surgery can range from $4,000 to $5,000. Once again, many insurance plans cover all or most of the cost.

Orthopedic surgery is a branch of surgery that deals with traumatic, chronic, and overuse injuries. It addresses musculoskeletal alignment, as well. Orthopedic hip surgery usually consists of a total knee replacement. This helps the feet stay in shape, since proper alignment starts from the hips and moves all the way down to the toes. This surgery is prompted by pain in the hip joint or by a disease in the hip joint. Disease in the hip joint can mean destruction of cartilage, which leads to pain and restricted mobility.

Orthopedic leg surgery is another important element involved with keeping your feet healthy and aligned. This procedure consists of the removal or repair of diseased areas in the leg. The cost of Orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the procedure performed. Once again, most insurance companies help greatly with the cost. The American Academy Of Orthopedic Surgery (AAOS) is the most prominent provider of musculoskeletal education to Orthopedic surgeons (as well as others around the world). It was founded in 1933.

Now that I have addressed surgeries that are necessary in order to maintain comfortable living, I am going to discuss the issue of cosmetic foot surgery. This procedure usually consists of one or more of the following:

• Shortening of the toes.
• Narrowing of the feet.
• Collagen or silicon injections to make wearing high heels more comfortable.

Are shoes so important that women will go to extraordinary lengths in order to look and feel their best in them? In my opinion, definitely not. But all the same, more and more people are getting cosmetic surgery on their feet. Doing this can be very dangerous. Tampering with the natural alignment of the foot can lead to permanent and irreversible damage. Also, the patient’s ability to walk is at a high risk of being jeopardized.

To conclude, I believe that it is perfectly understandable to undergo foot surgery if the goal is assisting in a painful or disfiguring problem. Cosmetic foot surgery, however, is (in my opinion) a waste of money and time that could put your ability to walk in danger. Who knew that wanting to look perfect in that gorgeous pair of 4 inch heels could mean being handicapped for the rest of your life?