Ankle StAbilisation (Ligament Reconstruction)
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What is an ankle stabilisation and why is it required some of the time?
Ankle stabilisation surgery is performed to treat recurrent ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability, usually caused by stretched or torn lateral ligaments. When the ligaments no longer hold the ankle securely, the joint may give way during walking or sport, leading to pain, swelling and loss of confidence. Surgical reconstruction tightens or repairs the damaged ligaments, restoring stability and helping patients return to activity safely.
What does the operation involve?
- The procedure is usually performed as a day-case under general or regional anaesthetic.
- A small incision is made on the outside of the ankle.
- The stretched or torn ligaments are tightened and repaired (often called a Broström repair).
- In cases of significant laxity or poor tissue quality, tendon grafts or suture brace augmentation may be used.
- The repair is secured with strong sutures and sometimes small anchors into bone.
- The operation is usually combines with ankle arthroscopy.
- Your ankle is protected initially in a boot or cast while healing takes place.
What to Expect on the Day
- Usually home the same day
- Leg is bandaged and placed in a temporary cast, which will be converted to a boot in 2 weeks
- You may walk when in the boot, but not before
- Pain is usually manageable with simple painkillers
- Elevation is important for swelling reduction
Consent Information
Consent Form for Ankle Arthroscopy + Proceed (docx)
DownloadPost Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Leg is placed in a cast to protect the repair.
- Elevation reduces swelling.
- Non-weight-bearing may be advised, depending on technique used.
- Wound check and stitches removed around 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Transition into a boot
- Gradual increase in partial → full weight-bearing, as guided by your surgeon.
- Early physiotherapy focusing on swelling control and gentle mobility usually begins around 4 weeks.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- Boot removal and progression to normal footwear.
- Strengthening, balance and proprioception exercises are key to recovery and are guided by physiotherapy.
- Light exercise such as cycling and swimming is often allowed.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Progressive strengthening and sport-specific conditioning.
- Many patients return to jogging and low-level sport around 3–4 months, depending on progress.
- Full return to sport and high-impact activity when strength and stability are restored.
- Most patients report significantly improved confidence and stability.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Recurrent ankle sprains or instability
- Ankle giving way during sport or uneven ground
- Pain, swelling and reduced confidence
- Limited participation in high-demand activity
After Surgery
- Improved stability and reduced sprains
- Greater confidence in walking, running and sport
- Less pain and swelling over time
- Return to activity with improved ankle control
- Long-lasting outcome when rehabilitation is followed
Long term success
- Ligament repair is durable with proper rehab.
- Physiotherapy is essential to rebuild balance and strength.
- Supportive footwear or braces may be used early in return-to-sport phases.
- Most patients return to sport without instability.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
Copyright © 2026 Prof Lyndon Mason - All Rights Reserved.