Bunion Surgery in Turkey, Prices of Istanbul Clinics

Why does hallux valgus develop?

Several factors can explain this progressive deformity of the big toe joint:

Hereditary factors

If other members of your family have suffered from hallux valgus, you may be genetically predisposed to developing it as well. The shape of the foot, the flexibility of the ligaments, and the alignment of the bones can be passed down from generation to generation.

Inappropriate footwear

High-heeled shoes are not only uncomfortable in the long term — they deeply alter the natural biomechanics of the foot. By elevating the heel, they shift the entire body weight forward, overloading the forefoot where the metatarsal bones and the big toe joint are located.

This abnormal pressure, especially if the shoes are narrow or pointed, forces the big toe to deviate toward the other toes, compressing the joint and creating a misalignment. Over time, this promotes the development of hallux valgus.

Foot morphology

Flat feet, excessive ligament flexibility, or poor distribution of plantar support can weaken the joint and encourage the appearance of hallux valgus.

Age and hormones

As time goes by, the ligaments in the foot lose their tone. This weakening, often exacerbated by hormonal factors in women, increases the risk of joint deformity.

Consequences of hallux valgus

More than just a cosmetic problem, hallux valgus can have a serious impact on your comfort and mobility. This deformity of the big toe causes persistent pain, especially when walking or wearing shoes. As the bunion grows, it becomes red, inflamed and extremely sensitive, making each step difficult.

Over time, the enlargement of the foot makes it difficult to choose footwear. Friction increases discomfort and finding the right pair becomes a real challenge. This limits your lifestyle and forces you to choose wide, sometimes unsightly shoes.

Hallux valgus doesn't just affect your feet: it also changes your posture and the way you walk. This instability can lead to secondary pain in the knees, hips, and back, further exacerbating your discomfort.

Left untreated, the situation gets worse. The pain gets worse, the deformity gets more pronounced, and your mobility suffers. Don't let hallux valgus take over your daily life! Consult a specialist today to discover the best solutions and regain your comfort.

When should surgery be considered?

When should you consider surgery for hallux valgus?

As soon as a bump appears on the side of the big toe, accompanied by pain, redness, or discomfort in your shoes, it's important to consult a foot specialist. An early diagnosis can often prevent progression to a more severe deformity.

Non-surgical solutions as a first step

In mild to moderate cases, conservative treatments can effectively relieve pain and slow down the progression:

• Custom orthotic insoles: These devices are designed to correct postural imbalances and redistribute pressure on the foot. By realigning the plantar support, they relieve the big toe joint and can slow down the worsening of the valgus. They're particularly effective in people with flat feet or foot instability.
• Rehabilitation exercises: These focus on strengthening the arch of the foot, stretching the big toe joint, and improving foot mobility. Simple activities like rolling a ball under the foot or picking up a towel with the toes can easily be done every day.
• Nighttime corrective orthotics: Worn at night, these gentle splints help keep the toe in a more natural alignment during sleep. They reduce joint tension and can limit inflammation. Although they don't correct the deformity, they often improve comfort and reduce morning pain.

When surgery becomes necessary

If the deformity worsens, the pain becomes constant, or you struggle to walk normally, surgery becomes a serious option. The goal is to realign the joint and provide lasting pain relief.

For younger patients, surgery is only considered after the end of growth, typically from age 16 onwards. The procedure corrects the bony alignment of the big toe and restores proper foot function.

A comprehensive assessment is essential to choose the best therapeutic approach, whether conservative or surgical.

Hallux valgus surgery techniques

Hallux valgus surgery can be performed using different techniques, tailored to the severity of the deformity and the patient's needs. Today, minimally invasive surgery is preferred, as it allows for effective correction with minimal incisions, reducing post-operative pain and recovery time.

Minimally invasive percutaneous surgery

This modern technique, performed under local anesthesia and as an outpatient procedure, corrects the deformity without opening the joint. Using ultra-thin instruments, the surgeon makes the correction through tiny incisions of 2 to 5 mm. A fluoroscope, a precision X-ray device, helps guide the surgeon in real time during the procedure.

Light and minimally traumatic, this approach is ideal for treating moderate hallux valgus. In more severe cases, small screws can be inserted percutaneously to stabilize the correction. The absence of large incisions significantly reduces scarring and allows for faster walking recovery.

Open surgery

Although less commonly used today, open surgery remains an effective option for severe hallux valgus deformities. This technique involves making an incision to access the joint directly. The surgeon then performs an osteotomy (removal of the bony bump) and repositions the bone using screws or plates for a lasting correction.

While this method offers solid results, it is gradually being replaced by minimally invasive techniques, which are less invasive and more comfortable for the patient.

Postoperative complications

Like any surgical procedure, hallux valgus surgery carries certain risks. Although most patients recover without any issues, some complications can occur and may require specific care. Among these are:

• Infections: In rare cases, an infection can develop around the screws or pins used to stabilize the bone. Careful monitoring and appropriate care usually prevent this from happening.
• Poor bone healing: If the bone is not perfectly repositioned, persistent discomfort can occur, sometimes requiring a second procedure.
• Osteoarthritis: Some patients may develop osteoarthritis over time, particularly if there was a severe deformity before the operation.
• Tingling or altered sensation: Nerve irritation during the procedure can cause temporary tingling or a loss of sensation in the foot.
• Healing problems: Circulatory issues can slow healing, and in some patients, scars may be more visible than expected.

Convalescence after hallux valgus surgery

Recovery after hallux valgus surgery typically lasts between 30 and 40 days, depending on the technique used. Minimally invasive percutaneous surgery often allows for a faster recovery, with less pain and an earlier return to activities. During the first few days, it is essential to keep the foot elevated to reduce swelling and promote proper healing.

Walking is generally possible without crutches from the start, but should be limited to short durations to avoid putting excessive pressure on the healing joint. Prolonged standing is also discouraged to reduce the risk of inflammation.

Three to six weeks after the procedure, physical therapy sessions with a physiotherapist may be initiated to improve foot mobility and prevent joint stiffness. A postoperative consultation is scheduled two to three weeks after surgery to monitor healing, remove stitches, and change the dressing if necessary. Throughout this period, wearing a specialized medical shoe is essential to protect the foot and ensure optimal recovery.

With Turquie Santé, benefit from personalized follow-up and comprehensive medical support for a smooth and worry-free recovery.

Success rate of hallux valgus surgery?

Hallux valgus surgery has a success rate of over 90%, with the majority of patients satisfied with the results. However, to maximize the chances of success, it is essential to choose an experienced surgeon and to follow the post-operative recommendations carefully.

Contrary to popular belief, the severity of the deformity does not directly impact the success rate, but it does influence the complexity of the procedure. The more pronounced the bunion, the greater the surgical correction required. The surgeon's expertise therefore plays a key role in the quality of the final result, both functionally and aesthetically.

Thanks to Turquie Santé, you have access to the best specialists in orthopedic surgery and benefit from tailor-made medical support for optimal management of your hallux valgus.