For most women, there is really no getting around heels. Of course patient advocates and podiatrists have been cautioning women against wearing high heels, but it is a losing proposition when you consider the social pressures involved. Formal occasions, professional meetings, and even routine social engagements dictate that women wear heels (or look out of place). Unfortunately, women’s feet do not always fit comfortably in high heel shoes, which is why the Cinderella procedure was developed.
What is the Cinderella Procedure?
The Cinderella procedure is a clever (but not very descriptive) name. Granted, this cosmetic foot surgery does help place a woman’s foot inside the perfect shoe, but the name does not really tell the story. While the Cinderella procedure may evoke images of a royal ball, a dashing prince, and teeny, tiny feet, in truth it is really just a glorified bunion surgery. However when you are trying to market cosmetic surgery for the feet, calling it bunion surgery is not the sexiest approach.
To be fair, the current Cinderella procedure is a big improvement over previous iterations of bunion surgery. Surgeons have developed a way of removing the unsightly bunions from the side of the feet while reducing recovery time in half. In other words, while it used to take women about two months to recovery from bunion surgery, most patients are back in high heels one month after the Cinderella procedure.
How the Cinderella Procedure Works
Unlike other plastic surgery procedures, the Cinderella procedure is performed by a podiatrist and not a plastic surgeon. Not only does the surgery involve the feet (the podiatrist’s domain) but the bones of the feet are cut (not something that is usually within the plastic surgeon’s area of expertise). Cosmetic foot surgery usually involves the removal of a bunion, which is essentially the bulging of the first knuckle of the big toe. It also includes revision of a Tailor’s bunion, which is simply a regular bunion that affects the smallest toe. Finally, if one or two toes stick out farther than the others, the Cinderella procedure may include shortening the longer toes.
There are no bones removed in this cosmetic foot surgery, but the bones are shaved. This bone shaving is what makes many women take pause and question whether the Cinderella procedure is worth it. Should women remove parts of functional bones in their feet simply for fashion? There is no right or wrong answer to this question, but it certainly is something that each woman must consider before consenting to surgery. Remember that even though recovery time has been cut in half, it still may take up to four weeks. Also, there are other treatments for bunions that do not require surgery. While possibly less effective and require longer treatment times, alternate therapies could eliminate the need for cosmetic foot surgery altogether.
Is the Cinderella Procedure Only for Cosmetic Reasons?
Although the Cinderella procedure is marketed as a cosmetic foot surgery, some women undergo the procedure for medical reasons. Bunions, for example, can be extremely painful and may interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to walk or wear any type of shoes comfortably.
For women who already struggle with chronic foot pain, misaligned toes, or difficulty finding well-fitting footwear, this procedure may serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose. However, if the primary goal is to alleviate pain rather than enhance the look of the feet, a podiatrist may recommend alternative treatments such as custom orthotics, physical therapy, or less invasive bunion correction procedures.
Potential Risks and Complications of the Cinderella Procedure
While the Cinderella procedure offers aesthetic and functional improvements, it is important to consider the potential risks and complications associated with this type of cosmetic foot surgery. As with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of infection, nerve damage, and poor healing.
Some women may experience lingering pain, swelling, or difficulty walking during the recovery period. In rare cases, the procedure may lead to permanent discomfort or instability in the feet, particularly if too much bone is shaved off. Before undergoing the Cinderella procedure, it is crucial to consult with an experienced podiatric surgeon to assess the potential risks and weigh them against the benefits.
Alternatives to Cosmetic Foot Surgery
Before committing to the Cinderella procedure, women should explore non-surgical treatments that may provide relief without the need for invasive surgery. Bunion pads, toe spacers, and custom orthotics can help reduce pressure on bunions and improve foot alignment over time. Additionally, physical therapy exercises can strengthen the muscles around the toes and improve overall foot function.
For those looking to make high heels more comfortable, brands specializing in ergonomic footwear offer stylish alternatives designed to provide support while maintaining a fashionable appearance. By trying non-surgical options first, some women may find they can achieve the relief they need without undergoing foot surgery.