For patients in South Africa

Toe shortening in Turkey from South Africa: a plain guide

Toe shortening removes a small section of bone to make a long toe shorter, usually the second or third toe. It is mainly done when a long toe is pressed against the front of the shoe and has started to bend into a hammer or claw toe, and sometimes for appearance. This page explains who it suits, how the operation is done and what South African patients need to plan for the journey home.

Who it suits

• People with a toe that is clearly longer than the others and is pressed by the front of the shoe
• People whose long toe is starting to bend into a hammer toe or claw toe
• People with pain or discomfort when standing or walking for long periods
• People in good general health with realistic expectations of the result

If the main reason is appearance, say so at the start; the surgeon will explain whether the risks are worth it for you.

How it is done

The surgeon first examines the foot and confirms the diagnosis. You are asked to stop smoking before the operation, and to tell us about any blood thinners you take; do not stop prescribed medication unless the surgeon tells you to.

• The operation is done under anaesthesia, through two tiny openings of about 1 mm
• A small motorised burr removes the cartilage of the middle toe joint and shortens the bone
• An internal device holds the correction and presses the bone ends together while they heal
• If needed, loose skin left by the shortening is tightened

It is less traumatic for the foot than conventional open surgery. Full details are on the toe shortening treatment page.

How long to stay, and the flight home

On the day of surgery you are helped up to walk in a special shoe. The dressing is not changed for the first two weeks, and the first change is done with the surgeon. The surgeon checks the toe before clearing you to fly; ask for the planned length of stay in your written treatment plan and book a return ticket you can change.

• Ask your airline for wheelchair or walking assistance at the airports
• Choose an aisle seat, get up to walk, drink water and keep the dressing dry
• Tell us at the start about any history of clots, diabetes or circulation problems

Recovery at home

• Weeks 2 to 6: you can change the dressing yourself once the surgeon has shown you how
• About four weeks: the surgical shoe is replaced by a wide-soled trainer
• About one month: most patients can drive again
• About six weeks: return to work, earlier for office work
• From about three months: a gradual return to sport

Arrange before you travel who will look at the toe in South Africa if needed, and take your operation notes home. Follow-up continues by photograph, message and video call with the same team; Turkey is only one hour ahead. Medical complications arising from the treatment, and any revision that becomes clinically necessary as a result, are covered for one year from the date of treatment by our treatment guarantee. Any such treatment is carried out in İzmir by the treating team; flights and accommodation remain your own responsibility.

Risks

Possible complications include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, scarring, and swelling or pain that lasts longer than expected. Discuss these with the surgeon before deciding. For other foot operations, see our foot and ankle surgery guide and the wider orthopaedic surgery guide for South African patients.

What we will not do

We will not confirm a plan before a surgeon has reviewed your scans and history, we will not promise a result, and we will not operate if your health makes it unsafe. A long journey is not a reason to operate when conservative treatment has not been tried, or to do more in one operation than the surgeon judges safe.

Frequently asked questions

Which toes can be shortened?

Usually the second or third toe. The surgeon decides from the examination which toes need shortening and whether surgery is right for you.

Is toe shortening done for appearance?

Sometimes, but it is mainly done for a long toe that is pressed by shoes or is starting to bend into a hammer or claw toe. It is still an operation with real risks.

When can I walk after toe shortening?

You are helped to walk in a special shoe on the day of surgery, and can usually change to a wide-soled trainer after about four weeks.

How long after toe shortening can I fly home to South Africa?

The surgeon decides after checking the toe. Because the flight takes around ten hours, book a return ticket you can change and ask for assistance at the airports.

Will my medical aid cover toe shortening in Turkey?

South African medical schemes generally do not cover planned treatment abroad, and standard travel insurance usually excludes it. Ask both specifically before you book.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.