Popular Winter Procedures for your Feet!

Many patients opt for surgeries like the Sklar bunionectomy and toe shortening, as well as treatments for toenail fungus during the winter in order to showcase their beautiful results in their cute sandals come summertime! 

What is toe shortening surgery? 

Toe shortening is a transformative procedure for patients who tell us about how embarrassed they are to wear open-toe shoes, get pedicures or to just go barefoot in front of others. At Foot First Podiatry, we surgically shorten and straighten their toes, we hide all of our incisions to give patients a cosmetically pleasing outcome and the confidence to show off their feet! 

Toe Shortening | www.footfirst.com

What about the fungal nail procedure, what is that? 

Patients also come in because of embarrassing thick and discolored fungal toenails that have failed home remedies and over the counter medications. They are still in search of a solution for this stubborn infection.  At Foot First Podiatry, we treat fungus aggressively not only with topical and oral medication, but also with our fungal laser to provide impressive results ready for sandal season and pedicures.

When should I start seeing results?

Optimal results take 6 months to a year for all of the mentioned procedures, which makes winter time the perfect season to schedule your appointment and get your feet fixed beautifully by the doctors at Foot First.

If you would like a consultation regarding any of these issues, please use the contact us form on our website or give the office a call at 847-352-9221.  

Can you Shorten the Big Toe?

When we talk about toe shortening in our practice, we almost always are referring to the smaller toes.  Patients more often develop corns, pain, and hammertoes on the lesser toes from them being too long in their shoes.  Occasionally, however, sometimes patients ask if they can shorten the big toe.

Of course we can!  

The big toe is too long usually due to genetics.  Patients can get the same symptoms to the big toe as they do the smaller toes when they are too long.  By shortening the big toe we can reduce pain in shoes, corns, or keep them from hammering.  

Toe shortening recovery for the big toe is similar to when we do toe shortening to the smaller toes.  Surgery is done under twilight anesthesia, where we remove a section of bone through an incision of the side of the foot.  If you have a bunion, we also can correct this at the same time.  After we remove the section of bone we use pins to hold it in place.  These pins are buried underneath the skin, and do not stick out of your foot.  After your toe is done healing, we remove the pins under local anesthesia usually in between 8 and 12 weeks after surgery.  During that time you may not run, jump, or walk for exercise.  You are able to stand and walk for limited amounts of time, and you do not necessarily need crutches.  Patients are usually able to get into a gym shoe after three weeks.  

Cosmetically, when we shorten any toe, a full cosmetic result takes 6 months to 1 year.  Our best photos in our gallery are all taken at about that time after surgery.  

If toe shortening or bunion surgery is something you are interested in, please reach out for a consultation by visiting the “contact us” link on our website at footfirst.com.

What are Corns?

What are corns, and how do those ugly things get on our toes?  Can’t you just cut them out?

Corns are small calluses that form on top of toes or in between toes.  They are hard, and can be painful when they rub against each other or in shoes.  The calluses can be trimmed down or padded so they don’t hurt as much, but why do they keep coming back?  The cause of these little nuisances is usually deeper than the corn itself.  Corns occur and keep coming back, because there is an underlying deformity to the toe that it is on.  

A hammertoe is the number one cause of how a corn can form.  A hammertoe is when the toe becomes permanently bent over time.  This can happen with genetics, aging, or because a bunion is pushing the toe.  Where the toe bends down, it rubs on the tops of shoes.  This constant rubbing produces a callus, and eventually a deep corn.  

Another very common cause for corns is the toe is too long.  Similar to hammertoes, when a toe is too long it buckles when it goes into a shoe.  Where it buckles, or bends, the shoe rubs and creates the corn.  

Sometimes a corn is caused, because a person has a lump on the bone.  When a patient has a lump on the side of their toe, that causes corns in between the toes.  

To fix a corn, the underlying problem with the toe must be corrected, or it will just keep coming back.  

If a patient has a hammertoe we correct the underlying issue by straightening the toe.  If the toe is too long, we shorten the toe.  This prevents the toe from rubbing on the top of the patient’s shoe and the corn can eventually heal on its own.  If the patient has a bony prominence, we will file the bone down so it stops rubbing.  

We try never to cut a corn off of the toe, because it can leave a scar.  We want the corns to subside on their own so when the patient is done healing there are no visible scars, and no one can tell that surgery was even done!

Some corns are difficult to cure.  Corns are more stubborn if a patient smokes cigarettes.  Smoking cigarettes has a negative effect on the tiny vessels that keep skin soft and healthy.  We often see that cigarette smokers have a harder time healing corns even if surgery is done.  Another cause of stubborn corns is genetics.  Some patients are genetically predisposed to making calluses, and that will also make it harder for them to heal.  Lastly, if the corn has been present for many many years, then it will make it harder for the surgery to be as successful. 

If you would like to schedule a consultation because you have ugly corns, please reach out through our website at www.footfirst.com, on Instagram at footfirstpod or call 847-352-9221.

The Sklar Bunionectomy® vs. Minimal Incision Bunionectomy

We frequently get asked in our practice, “What is the difference between minimally invasive surgery, and minimal incision surgery?”  Though the two names sound very similar, they are two very different ways to perform bunion surgery.   

Procedure Descriptions

Minimally invasive bunion surgery refers to our procedure, The Sklar Bunionectomy® that is performed at the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint where the bunion deformity takes place. A small hidden incision that measures approximately 3-4cm on the side of the bunion and close to the bottom of the foot is made.  We cut the bone at the head of the first metatarsal, in an area that heals consistently and predictably.  Another cut is made in the proximal phalanx.  The cuts are made using a thin blade with an oscillating saw.  We use two to three screws to fixate this procedure. This is called minimally invasive, because it is much different than traditional bunion surgery that creates long visible scars on top of the foot and potentially excessive hardware.  These long dorsal scars are not only ugly, but can also cause problematic adhesions and scar tissue.

Minimally Incision surgery (MIS) refers to a completely different procedure, in itself.  Small punctures are made around the bunion area so a small burr can be inserted.  The burr is used to break the bone just behind the first metatarsal head.  The number of incisions made and the number of screws used depends on the surgeon and their preference.  The amount of bone that is removed or shifted is determined by intraoperative X-Rays.  

What does this mean to me?

Because we make a small incision instead of punctures, we are able to visualize how we can correct the bunion.  We can accurately see how much bone we are removing, and how much we are shifting the bone into position.  We can see exactly where we are placing the screws, and where exactly all the important soft tissues are so we can avoid and protect them.  Because we can protect the tissues from the saw, our patients have a lot less swelling than the typical minimal incision patient.  Also, because we use a bone saw instead of a burr, we typically have significantly less shortening of the first metatarsal.  With less shortening you get less instances of an elevated big toe that doesn’t touch the ground.

Recovery

With our Sklar Bunionectomy® the recovery is much more manageable.  Our patients are able to step on their feet immediately after surgery.  In fact, our patients walk out of surgery safely to their respective rides to take them home.  They are to be bandaged in a surgical shoe for approximately two weeks, then they are able to wear a tennis shoe comfortably.  We do limit our patient’s walking, however most are able to return to a desk job within about three days.  We also do not restrict driving even if surgery is performed on the right foot.   Return to full activity can be as soon as 8 weeks. 

Although MIS surgery sounds like it would be an easy recovery because of the small incisions, the reality is that MIS relies greatly on bandaging and reduced activity to provide its result.  Depending on the surgeon crutches may be required, however most patients are also able to walk in a surgical shoe.  However, generally patients with MIS are required to have bandaging, or wear a surgical shoe for 6 weeks, and a return to full activity may not be until at least 3-4 months. 

Cosmetic Result

Fixing Feet Beautifully™ is our motto at Foot First because we pride ourselves with not only how our Sklar Bunionectomy® functions, but also how beautiful it leaves a foot.  There is a remarkable difference with how a foot that has healed from an MIS bunionectomy versus with the Sklar Bunionectomy®.  

With the Sklar Bunionectomy® our small scars are hidden to the side of the foot where they cannot be seen.  There is also minimal to no shortening of the big toe to make it look disproportionate to the other digits.  This means that after a patient has recovered from surgery their foot appears as if it had never needed surgery in the first place: naturally beautiful. 

MIS surgery has a less consistent result because the surgeon has less control over what is happening internally by not making an incision.  This can leave the cosmesis to be somewhat abnormal looking, and not the naturally beautiful result a patient can hope for.  This can mean the toe sits elevated, it can be too straight or not straight enough.  Sometimes it can even appear twisted.  

Both the Sklar Bunionectomy® and MIS procedures can undoubtedly offer good results when correcting a bunion, however the journey to the end result is drastically different, as well as the consistency in appearance and functionality.  We at Foot First always recommend patients to read reviews, and ask for before and after pictures when choosing their surgeon and procedure.  To us the obvious choice is always the Sklar Bunionectomy® .

The Sklar Bunionectomy® vs Lapidus Type Procedures

A common question we get here at Foot First Podiatry is what is the difference between the Sklar Bunionectomy® and Lapidus type bunion procedures? 

There are three major differences between these two procedures: the cut in the bone, the cosmetic appearance, and the recovery.

Bone Cut

Lapidus type bunion surgeries typically are performed at the first metatarsal-cuneiform joint, and involves fusing this joint so it no longer moves ever again.  This is done at the base of the first metatarsal closer to the top of the arch of your foot, not near the area of the bunion.  The cut in the bone is usually fixated with screws and plates.  The screws and plates used can be very expensive depending on the system the doctor chooses.  Because this type of procedure fuses a joint it typically requires removal of bone, which in turn shortens the big toe in comparison to the lesser toes.  There are also certain risks that a Lapidus type procedure exposes a patient to, such as higher risk of delayed or nonunion (the bones may not heal together), or elevated positioning of the 1st metatarsal.

The Sklar Bunionectomy®  is a minimally invasive surgery performed at the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint where the bunion deformity takes place.  We use two to three screws to fixate this procedure.  Typically there is much less metal placed in a patients’ body than that is used with Lapidus type procedure.  The cuts in the bone are placed in areas that heal consistently and predictably.

Recovery

The biggest difference between the two procedures is recovery time.  With a Lapidus type bunion surgery most patients are required to be bandaged and in a boot for 4-8 weeks after surgery.  In addition to that, there is a high possibility of not walking and using crutches during this time.  If surgery is performed on the right foot driving is prohibited.  

With our Sklar Bunionectomy® the recovery is much more manageable.  Our patients are able to step on their feet immediately after surgery.  In fact, our patients walk out of surgery safely to their respective rides to take them home.  They are to be bandaged in a surgical shoe for approximately two weeks, then they are able to get into a tennis shoe.  We do limit our patient’s walking, however most are able to return to a desk job within about three days.  We also do not restrict driving even if surgery is performed on the right foot.   

Cosmetic Appearance

Fixing Feet Beautifully™ is our motto at Foot First Podiatry because we pride ourselves with not only how our Sklar Bunionectomy® functions, but also how beautiful it leaves a foot.  There is a remarkable difference with how a foot that has healed from a Lapidus type bunionectomy has healed than with the Sklar Bunionectomy®.  This is mostly due to the scarring that is left after surgery.

With the Sklar Bunionectomy® our small scars are hidden to the side of the foot where they cannot be seen.  There is also minimal to no shortening of the big toe to make it look disproportionate to the other digits.  This means that after a patient has recovered from surgery their foot appears as if it had never needed surgery in the first place: naturally beautiful.  

With Lapidus type procedures there are typically one very long scar or multiple scars on top of the foot.  Scars on top of the foot are not only unsightly, but can also create problematic scar tissue that can affect the end functional result of surgery as well.  And also as stated above, there can be remarkable shortening of the big toe, causing an awkward looking appearance after surgery.

Below are two examples of Lapidus type surgical results: 

Lapidus Type Scarring

Following that image of the two examples of Lapidus Type surgical results are comparisons of patients who have had the Sklar Bunionectomy® on one foot, and a Lapidus type procedure on the other:

The Sklar Bunionectomy vs Lapidus Type Surgical Results

The Sklar Bunionectomy vs Lapidus Type Surgical Results

Both the Sklar Bunionectomy® and Lapidus type procedures can offer good results when correcting a bunion, however the journey to the end result is drastically different, as well as the appearance.  We at Foot First always recommend patients to read reviews, and ask for before and after pictures when choosing their surgeon and procedure.  To us the obvious choice is always the Sklar Bunionectomy®.

Both procedures:

• Involve cutting the bone and using hardware

• Can offer correction of bunions of many shapes and sizes

• May need removal of hardware 

Lapidus type procedures:

• More scarring/visible scarring 

• Shortening of the big toe

• More internal hardware used

• Longer and more involved recovery

• Fuses a joint

Sklar Bunionectomy®:

• No visible scars 

• Minimal shortening of the big toe

• Manageable recovery
  

If you are thinking about having foot surgery, please explore our website at www.footfirst.com or connect with us on our Instagram handle @footfirstpod. You have choices when it comes to the type of surgical procedures you can have, so why not choose the one that makes recovery easy and your foot looking beautiful.

Long, short, curled or even just plain ugly toes? At Foot First we can fix that!

Before & After results with the Sklar Bunionectomy & Toe Shortening Procedure

Long toes can be troublesome for a patient for many reasons.  Toe shortening is a unique procedure that we perform alone, or along with our bunion surgery, the Sklar Bunionectomy™.   

Toe shortening has a similar recovery to our bunion surgery where you are able to weight bear immediately, and get back into a gym shoe in a short amount of time.

You may wonder why some people request to have their toes shortened.  Long toes can be problematic not only cosmetically, but also functionally.  A long toe extends past the other shorter toes so it may hit the end of the shoe first, causing the toe to curl and jam.  This can cause a hammertoe over time, or a painful corn on top of the toe as it rubs on the shoe. The constant jamming at the end of the shoe can also cause the toe to dislocate over the metatarsal bone.  This causes a painful callus on the ball of the foot. This also occurs when the metatarsal bone behind the toe is too long as well, and would require an additional procedure to the toe shortening to fix.

If you have a bunion along with long toes, we always correct the bunion with the toe shortening procedure.  This is because if we do not correct the bunion deformity, the big toe pushes against the smaller toes as they heal.  This eventually causes them to heal crooked, or become crooked over time. This is why we always address the bunion deformity as well.  The image to the right is a patient who had her toes shortened by another doctor without fixing her bunion. We then had to correct her bunion along with her crooked toes.

During our initial consultation we determine which toe shortening procedures you need by where you are feeling pain, and with X-rays of your feet.  We also determine how much you want your toe shortened. You tell us approximately where you envision your shortened toe to be in comparison to the other toes.  For instance, some patients still want their second toe to be in line with the big toe, or some patients want their second toe to be shorter than the big toe. This is where the surgery becomes more of an art than a science, because everyone has a different opinion of what they consider beautiful.

Surgery for toe shortening is done under local anesthesia (awake with numbing of the toes) or twilight anesthesia (asleep) through a small incision on the side of the toe.  We remove a section of bone that we determine before surgery. How much bone we remove will depend on how much your toe needs to be shortened. We then insert a wire to hold the toe while it heals.  The wire will be underneath the skin and will NOT stick out the ends of your toe. The wire is not meant to be permanent and will need to be removed at a later date. We then close the incision usually with only one stitch, and allow you to recover.

After toe shortening surgery patients usually experience pain for three days.  They are able to weight bear immediately and are wearing a surgical shoe. Patients wear the surgical shoe for three weeks, and also have to keep the foot clean and dry during that time.  At three weeks the sutures will be removed and patients will be allowed to wear a gym shoe. At 8-12 weeks, depending on how the bones are healing, we will numb the toes to remove the pin inside of the toe.  Then patients are allowed to return to exercise like running, jumping, and wear different shoes.

Toe shortening surgery is very successful, although it will never be perfect.  Healing is determined by the success of the surgery, genetics, and compliance with instructions all combined.  With all the surgeries we tell our patients that toes will cosmetically look ugly for 4-6 months before they start to see their true result.  This is how long it takes for most patients’ swelling to come down. Some more serious complications of toe surgery are, but not limited to, floating toe, crooked healing, creases/scarring to the skin, a swollen toe, numbness, or a toe that is painful.  Usually if we work together by us performing good surgery, and the patient follows instructions and genetically heals well, we all end up with a beautiful result.

Our unique toe shortening procedure offers patients the chance to lessen their pain, and have a beautiful looking foot.  Our before and after pictures showcase our most beautiful results. As stated before, toes take 4-6 months on average to become beautiful.  All after photos posted are usually taken at 6 months to 1 year after having toe shortening surgery.

For more information about our unique Toe Shortening procedure or to view additional before and after results, visit www.footfirst.com.