Bunionette Osteotomy
Bunionette Surgery in Hawaii
A 5th metatarsal osteotomy is a surgical procedure used to correct a bunionette (also known as a tailor’s bunion), which is a painful bony prominence on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. This condition develops when the fifth metatarsal bone angles outward or becomes excessively prominent, leading to pressure, redness, and pain—particularly with shoe wear.
Surgery is typically considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment, such as shoe modifications, padding, activity modification, or custom orthotics. The goal of surgery is to correct the underlying bony alignment and relieve pressure along the outside of the foot.
How Surgery Is Performed
A 5th metatarsal osteotomy involves making a precise, controlled cut in the fifth metatarsal bone to allow realignment of the bone into a more anatomic position. The specific location and orientation of the osteotomy depend on the severity and type of deformity.
Once the bone is repositioned, it is stabilized with a small screw or pin to maintain alignment while healing occurs. The procedure is designed to reduce the bony prominence, restore proper forefoot mechanics, and relieve pain caused by shoe pressure.
Recovery After Surgery
After surgery, patients typically wear a protective postoperative shoe or boot and follow activity restrictions to protect the osteotomy while it heals. Weight-bearing is usually limited initially and then gradually increased based on healing and comfort.
Recovery focuses on swelling control, gradual return to normal walking, and transition back to regular footwear. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within several weeks, although full recovery and return to higher-impact activities may take longer depending on the extent of correction and individual healing.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, a 5th metatarsal osteotomy carries potential risks. These may include infection, delayed bone healing, stiffness, irritation from hardware, recurrence of deformity, or continued discomfort.
Careful surgical planning, appropriate postoperative protection, and adherence to recovery guidelines are important to optimize outcomes. Your surgeon will discuss whether this procedure is appropriate based on your symptoms, foot structure, activity level, and treatment goal.
Office Location
30 Aulike St. Suite 201
Kailua, HI 96734
Contact Information
scheduling@windortho.net
(808) 261-4658
Surgical Facilities
Castle Medical Center
Windward Surgery Center
