Is Foot Plastic Surgery Too Risky?

Cosmetic surgery is more popular than ever as people try to "turn back the hands of time". Nowadays, people are getting surgery to enhance everything from their earlobes to their buttocks. The trend even extends below the knees - all the way to the feet. Cosmetic surgery for feet, a so-called foot facelift, has even come into vogue as women attempt to "beautify" their feet, so they'll look better in sandals. Is foot cosmetic surgery really a good idea?

Foot Cosmetic Surgery and Foot Facelifts: Is People Going Too Far?

What type of foot plastic surgery is popular these days? Foot-conscious people are getting bunions removed, which isn't always a cosmetic procedure since bunions are painful. They're also getting hammertoe surgery, toes shortened, toe tucks, and "foot facelifts", which involves a combination of foot and toe procedures to beautify the feet.

One of the more popular types of cosmetic surgery for feet is a pinky toe tuck. This involves slimming down the last toe so it'll fit better into narrow, high-heeled shoes and strappy designer sandals.

Some people also have one toe that's longer than the rest and sticks out too much. This can be corrected surgically by removing a portion of the toe bone and using a pin to reconnect the bony parts. Some women even have collagen injected into their heel pads for more cushioning when they wear high-heels.

Is Foot Cosmetic Surgery Risky?

According to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, cosmetic surgery for feet is a risky proposition. The chance of foot complications from these surgeries is high, including permanent nerve damage, infection, bleeding,scarring, and chronic pain when walking. At its worst, foot cosmetic surgery gone bad could make it difficult for a woman to wear any shoes at all - much less skimpy designer sandals.

Is Cosmetic Surgery for Feet Taking Vanity to the Extreme?

Some doctors believe that foot surgery should be used only to relieve pain and correct major deformities - not to help a woman look better in a pair of Louis Vuitton sandals. The risks of foot cosmetic surgery are too high, considering you need your feet to get around.

Some cosmetic foot problems such as bunions come from squeezing feet into shoes that are too tight, too pointy, or too high, so wearing shoes that are more "foot friendly" reduces the need to get foot plastic surgery in the first place.

Cosmetic Surgery for Feet: The Bottom Line?

Foot cosmetic surgery sounds like the perfect way to get more beautiful toes and feet, but is it worth the risk? Stick to pedicures to make your feet look better - and don't let someone take a knife to the appendages that keep you upright - and help you get around.

References:

Medical News Today. "Surgeons Warn Against Cosmetic Foot Surgery"