What is it?
Adult flat foot reconstruction is a combination of procedures chosen for each person's foot. It may include transferring a healthy tendon to replace a failing one, realigning the heel bone, lengthening a tight calf, and repairing the supporting ligaments. Where the foot is stiff or arthritic, joining some joints (fusion) gives a more reliable correction. Similar principles are used to correct painful high-arched feet.
Who might it help?
- A painful flat foot that is getting worse, often with a failing tibialis posterior tendon
- Symptoms that have not settled with insoles, braces and physiotherapy
- Flat feet caused by a tarsal coalition or accessory navicular in some younger adults
Is it right for you?
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Surgery is only recommended when it is likely to help, and non-surgical options are always discussed first.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the benefits, risks and alternatives for your situation at your consultation.
What does it involve?
- It's done under a general or regional anaesthetic, usually with one or two nights in hospital.
- The combination of procedures is planned around your foot shape, flexibility and any arthritis.
Before your operation
- You'll have a pre-assessment check, usually a week or two before surgery, including blood tests if needed
- Stop smoking, ideally at least six weeks before, as it slows bone and wound healing
- Arrange help at home for the first couple of weeks, and someone to take you home
- Prepare your home: clear walkways, and put everyday things within easy reach
- If you'll use crutches or a knee scooter, practise beforehand
On the day
- You'll be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours beforehand
- The anaesthetist will discuss the anaesthetic with you, often a general anaesthetic with a nerve block to keep the foot numb for several hours afterwards
- Mr Jeyaseelan will see you before the operation to answer any questions and mark the leg
- Before you go home, you'll be shown how to use crutches and given pain relief and written instructions
Recovery
Recovery is longer than for most foot operations. You'll usually be in a cast with no weight on the foot for around six weeks, then in a boot for several more weeks, followed by physiotherapy. Full recovery commonly takes nine to twelve months.
Foot raised most of the time, in a plaster, with no weight on the foot.
Still in a plaster or boot, with no weight bearing.
In a boot, gradually increasing weight bearing. Physiotherapy begins.
Into supportive shoes. Steady improvement, with full recovery often taking nine to twelve months.
These times are typical only. You'll be given a personal recovery plan.
Getting back to normal
- Driving
- You can usually drive once you're out of a boot and can do an emergency stop safely. After right-foot surgery this is often six to eight weeks or more. Check with your insurer.
- Work
- Desk-based work is often possible after two to six weeks if you can keep the foot raised. Jobs that involve standing or walking take longer.
- Sport
- Low-impact exercise, such as cycling and swimming, usually comes first. Running and contact sport come later, once strength and movement have returned.
- Flying
- Long-haul flights are usually avoided for at least six weeks after foot and ankle surgery because of the risk of blood clots. Ask before booking travel.
Possible risks
As with any operation, there are risks. They include:
- Infection or wound problems
- Nerve damage causing numbness
- The bones not healing
- Under- or over-correction
- Stiffness or ongoing pain
- Blood clots in the leg or lungs
Alternatives
Supportive insoles, braces, physiotherapy and footwear changes help many people and are usually tried first.
Conditions this may treat
Common questions
Where can I have flat foot reconstruction in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with problems that may need flat foot reconstruction at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment. If surgery is right for you, he will discuss which hospital suits you best.
How long is recovery after flat foot reconstruction?
Recovery is longer than for most foot operations. You'll usually be in a cast with no weight on the foot for around six weeks, then in a boot for several more weeks, followed by physiotherapy. Full recovery commonly takes nine to twelve months. Your own recovery plan will be tailored to you.
Is it covered by health insurance?
Mr Jeyaseelan is recognised by major insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality and WPA. Cover depends on your policy, so please get an authorisation code from your insurer before your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.