Bunions (hallux valgus) are bony deformities at the base of the big toe that can cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. When conservative treatments such as orthotics, footwear modifications, or pain relief fail, open bunion surgery provides an effective solution.

Mr. Turab Syed, an experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery, performs open bunion surgery at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. This guide explains the procedure, who it is suitable for, recovery, and why Mr. Syed is the preferred choice for care.

What is open bunion surgery?

Open bunion surgery involves a surgical incision over the bunion to:

• Realign the big toe joint.
• Remove the bony prominence.
• Correct any associated deformities of the first metatarsal and soft tissues.
• Stabilise the joint using screws, pins, or plates if necessary.

It is most commonly recommended for:

• Painful bunions that affect walking or shoe wear.
• Progressive deformity that worsens over time.
• Bunions causing secondary toe deformities or calluses.
• Failure of non-surgical treatments to relieve symptoms.

Who can benefit from open bunion surgery?

Ideal candidates for open bunion surgery are patients who:

• Experience persistent big toe pain or discomfort despite conservative care.
• Have a visible bunion deformity affecting daily life or footwear.
• Require correction of severe hallux valgus or associated toe misalignment.

Mr. Syed conducts a detailed assessment, including X-rays, to determine the most suitable surgical approach.

Open bunion surgery in Stirling & Hamilton: The procedure

Pre-operative preparation

Before surgery, patients undergo:

• A detailed consultation to explain the procedure and answer questions.
• X-rays or scans for accurate surgical planning.
• Pre-operative checks, including blood tests.
• Guidance on fasting and medication management.

The surgery itself

• Performed under local, regional, or general anaesthesia.
• An incision is made over the bunion to access the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
• The bony prominence is removed, and the toe is realigned.
• Screws, pins, or plates may be used to stabilise the joint.
• The operation typically lasts 1–2 hours.

Mr. Syed performs open bunion surgery at:

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling (Polmaise Rd, FK7 9JH) – modern surgical theatres with dedicated recovery support.
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton (Cadzow Avenue, ML3 0FT) – private orthopaedic care with advanced facilities.

Both hospitals are well-connected and accessible for patients across Stirling, Lanarkshire, and surrounding areas.

Duration and post-op care

• Patients may go home the same day or stay overnight for observation.
• The foot is protected in a post-operative shoe or boot.
• Pain is managed with prescribed medication.
• Elevation and rest help reduce swelling.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery after open bunion surgery typically includes:

• 0–2 weeks: Limited weight-bearing with crutches or post-operative shoe.
• 2–6 weeks: Gradual return to normal walking and light activities.
• 6–12 weeks: Full function regained with ongoing physiotherapy to improve strength, balance, and toe alignment.

Follow-up appointments monitor healing, bone alignment, and symptom improvement.

Risks and complications

While open bunion surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Delayed bone healing or non-union.
• Stiffness or swelling in the big toe joint.
• Persistent pain or recurrence of the bunion.

Mr. Syed uses advanced surgical techniques and careful post-operative care to minimise these risks.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Specialist in foot and ankle surgery with extensive experience in hallux valgus correction.
• Advanced surgical techniques including open and minimally invasive procedures.
• Personalised care from consultation through post-operative recovery.
• Accessible locations at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton.

FAQs

Is open bunion surgery painful?
Mild discomfort is expected after surgery, but pain is managed with medication and supportive care.

How long is recovery?
Most patients return to light activities within 2–6 weeks, with full recovery typically achieved by 6–12 weeks.

Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and balance in the foot.

Can I wear normal shoes after surgery?
Yes, after full recovery, most patients can comfortably wear regular footwear.

Book your consultation

If bunions are causing pain or limiting your daily life, open bunion surgery with Mr. Turab Syed could provide lasting relief.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to discuss your treatment options.