What is Bunion Removal Surgery?
Bunion removal surgery involves correcting the misalignment of the bones in the foot that cause a bunion to form, shaving down the bony lump and realigning the big toe, secured with screws, plates or wires. It is commonly recommended when non-surgical treatments, such as orthotics or footwear changes, haven’t provided sufficient relief from pain, swelling or difficulty wearing shoes.
Depending on the severity of your bunion, this can be performed as traditional open surgery or, in suitable cases, using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques through small incisions, which can mean less scarring and a faster return to normal footwear. Conveniently located in St John’s Wood (NW8), we offer this treatment to patients across London with a focus on safety and compassionate care.
Who is Bunion Removal Surgery suitable for?
A bunion causing pain, swelling or difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably
• A bunion that hasn’t improved with orthotics, footwear changes or padding
• A bunion that’s progressively worsening or affecting your other toes
• Patients who want to explore whether they’re suitable for minimally invasive surgery
Your consultant will assess the severity of your bunion, usually with an X-ray, before recommending the most appropriate surgical approach for you.
Bunion Surgery at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we offer specialised bunion treatment with a focus on your individual needs and lasting relief. Our orthopaedic experts take the time to create a personalised plan to help you move comfortably again.
Why choose us for bunion removal surgery?
- Specialist Foot Surgeons: Our experienced orthopaedic consultants specialise in foot and ankle surgery.
- Patient-Centred Care: We take the time to understand how bunions are affecting your daily life, creating a treatment plan that prioritises your comfort and long-term mobility.
- Modern Facilities: Our hospital features advanced imaging and surgical technology, allowing for accurate diagnosis and precise bunion correction.
- Accessible Location: Based in NW8, we serve patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6), and across London.
We are committed to helping you find relief from bunion pain and improving your quality of life.
Consultants
How Much Does Private Bunion Removal Surgery Cost?
from £5,250*
The cost of private Bunion Removal Surgery starts from £5,250* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
*The price shown is an estimated guide to the hospital charges associated with your treatment from admission to discharge. Your final cost may vary depending on your individual clinical needs, the procedure performed, any additional treatments required, the type of implant/prosthesis used (where applicable), and the length of stay. This guide price excludes consultation fees, diagnostic tests, and professional fees charged separately by your surgeon, anaesthetist, and any other specialists involved in your care.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bunion Removal Surgery
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), easily accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6) and across North and Central London.
By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is a 5-minute walk to and from St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
By Bus: Routes 13, 46 and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station. Routes 139 and 189 stop on Abbey Road.
By Car: Finchley Road and Kilburn High Road provide direct routes from NW3 and NW6
Many people live with a mild bunion without needing treatment, especially if it isn’t causing pain. However, bunions can gradually worsen over time, so it’s worth having yours assessed if it’s starting to cause discomfort, affecting your other toes, or making it harder to find comfortable shoes.
For most patients whose bunion causes ongoing pain or difficulty walking, surgery provides lasting relief and improved foot function. Your consultant will talk through the expected benefits and recovery time for your specific case, so you can make an informed decision.
Most patients wear a protective boot or shoe for around six weeks and gradually return to normal footwear over two to three months. Recovery time can vary depending on whether you have traditional or minimally invasive surgery, and your consultant will give you a personalised timeline.
The procedure is carried out under anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during surgery. Some swelling and discomfort in the days and weeks afterwards is normal and can usually be managed with pain relief, elevation and rest.
Bunion surgery corrects the current misalignment, but it’s possible for a bunion to recur over time, particularly if the underlying cause, such as foot shape or footwear, isn’t addressed. Your consultant will discuss ways to reduce this risk as part of your aftercare.
Surgery is usually considered when a bunion causes persistent pain, affects your ability to walk or wear shoes comfortably, or hasn’t improved with non-surgical measures such as orthotics or wider footwear.
Non-surgical options include wearing wider or more supportive shoes, using orthotic insoles or bunion pads, and taking anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief. These can help manage symptoms but won’t correct the underlying bone misalignment.
Medically reviewed by Mr Aria Ghassemi - MBBS MRCS FRCS MSc Dip (Imperial College) on 2/11/2026