lesser toe correction surgery
What is lesser toe correction surgery and why is surgery required some of the time?
Lesser toe correction surgery treats deformities of the second, third, fourth or fifth toes, such as hammer toes, claw toes, mallet toes and curly toes. These deformities can cause pain, rubbing in shoes, corns or difficulty walking. When non-surgical measures fail to relieve symptoms, surgical correction can straighten the toe, reduce pressure and improve comfort.
What does the operation involve?
- The procedure is usually performed as a day-case under local, regional or general anaesthetic.
- Small incisions are made over the affected toes.
- Depending on the deformity, surgery may involve:
• Tendon releases/lengthening
• Joint capsule release
• Small bone cuts (osteotomies)
• Temporary fixation with wires or screws - The aim is to realign the toe so it no longer rubs or causes pain.
- Once the correction is complete, wounds are closed with stitches and a dressing applied.
- Temporary wires may be used which would be removed in clinic, between 4 and 6 weeks.
Your surgeon will explain the specific technique planned based on your toe shape and symptoms.
Consent Information
Consent Form Lesser toe correction (docx)
DownloadExamples
Post Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Your toes will be bandaged or splinted in the corrected position.
- You may be allowed heel or partial weight-bearing in a post-op shoe or sandal.
- Elevation helps reduce swelling.
- Stitches are usually removed at 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Continue to wear protective footwear as advised.
- If temporary wires are used, these will be removed between 4 and 6 weeks.
- Gentle toe movement exercises can begin as comfort allows.
- Swelling and stiffness are common in early recovery.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- Most people return to comfortable shoes with wide toe box.
- Walking and light activity increases gradually.
- Toe taping is usually used up to 12 weeks to maintain toe position.
- Sensitivity around the toes may persist but improves over time.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Final improvement in comfort and toe alignment evolves.
- Shoes fit more comfortably and pressure points reduce.
- Return to higher-impact activities may be considered depending on progress.
- Swelling can take over 6 months to recede.
Recovery time varies depending on the number of toes corrected and the specific procedures performed.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Pain and pressure in toe deformities
- Difficulty with footwear
- Calluses, corns or rubbing
- Reduced walking comfort
After Surgery
- Straighter toes and reduced deformity
- Less pain and pressure in shoes
- Greater comfort when walking
- Improved ability to wear a wider range of footwear
Long term success
- Most patients report lasting improvement in pain and toe alignment.
- Some swelling or stiffness can persist for several months.
- Maintaining flexible, roomy footwear supports long-term comfort.
- If fusions are used, the toes will remain stiff.
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.