Ask the expert: Bunions

Ask the expert: Bunions

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Andrea Bianchi specialises in foot conditions at The Private Clinic. He was interviewed by Reader’s Digest to find out more about Bunions and how to treat them.

How did you become a bunion specialist?

When a Mexican surgeon solved the problem of hallux valgus – bunions – with small holes and no metal fixtures or screws, I learned and improved this technique. It was so successful I had almost no time left for anything else.

Why do people get bunions?

A congenital bunion is often a result of deformities from birth or inherited foot type. An acquired bunion is often a result of foot stress or injury or uncomfortable footwear – narrow soles, high heels or ill-fitting shoes. Arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis can also make you more prone to bunions.

How can you prevent them?

Opt for wider shoes and keep the heel height to no more than four centimetres. It’s incredibly important to exercise the feet. With your feet flat on the floor, point your toes as far as you can and then curl them back underneath the foot as far as they will go. Take five seconds for each stretch and repeat ten times. Then, while seated, roll a ball under the length of your foot for two or three minutes. If your foot isn’t properly aligned or you have fallen arches, you can wear over-the-counter shoe insoles or custom-made shoe or heel inserts a doctor prescribes.

When do bunions need treatment?

Once bunions form, they won’t go away without surgery. They can cause chronic pain, swelling and redness over the big toe joint particularly after wearing tight-fitting shoes or shoes that don’t fit properly. Relieve discomfort with wide, low-heeled shoes with soft soles, bunion pads and regular painkillers.

What treatments are available?

The most common type of bunion surgery involves cutting away the bunion and realigning the bones of the joint to make the sides of the foot straighter. It uses screws and staples. I favour- and practice- keyhole surgery which doesn’t use these and enables you to walk immediately after surgery.

Related: Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery 

Why choose The Private Clinic for Bunion Removal Surgery?

If bunions are causing you discomfort and pain, then our minimally invasive keyhole bunion removal surgery is likely to be the ideal treatment for you. Performed as a daycare procedure with minimal downtime it is a great procedure for busy patients who don’t want the downtime from traditional bunion surgery. You will be able to walk immediately following the procedure, with no need for crutches.

For further information or to book a bunion removal appointment please click here or call 0330 838 1686.  

• Exclusive to The Private Clinic in the UK, there is no other operation like this one.
• Bunion Removal Surgery is performed under local anaesthesia using keyhole techniques.
• This is the only natural operation with no metal fixtures such as wires or screws being used.
• There is a 98% success rate following the bunion operation.
• Mr Bianchi, an expert in his field has been carrying out bunion operations for 15 years.
• Dr Bianchi carries out on average 1,200 bunion operations a year.
• You will be able to bear weight on your foot quickly after surgery.
• No need for an overnight stay
• Minimal post-operative pain and aftercare.
• Treatment carried out in our state-of-the-art London Fitzroy hospital
• 24-hour patient helpline direct to your nursing team and surgeon, which means should you have any concerns we are here to help.
• Dedicated post-operative care and appointments with your surgeon and nursing team. We are here to give you the best experience.
• Our minimally-invasive bunion removal treatment has been recognised in Tatler’s Beauty & Cosmetic Surgery Guide.
• Our excellent reputation for patient safety and satisfaction, honest advice and outstanding care means your journey with The Private Clinic will be an exciting experience to a newfound confidence.
• View our bunion before and after photos.
• Watch our bunion treatment and testimonial videos.
• Read our extensive bunion FAQs