Do I Need Surgery - Understanding Your Treatment Options

Hello, I'm Kumar Kunasingam an Orthopaedic surgeon, and one of the most common questions I hear is whether surgery is necessary. In this video I'll explain how we decide together whether surgery is the right option for you; and what alternatives may be available. Surgery is rarely the first option for foot and ankle problems. Many conditions respond well to conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, orthotics, supportive footwear, or activity modification. I will always explore these approaches first, as they can be highly effective - and avoid the need for any surgical intervention. However, some conditions do benefit from surgical treatment. This is typically the case when: conservative measures have been tried for an adequate period without success; or when the problem is structural and unlikely to improve without correction; or when delaying surgery may lead to worsening outcomes. For conditions like bunions, the decision often comes down to how much the problem affects your quality of life. If pain is limiting your activities, and conservative measures have not helped, surgery may offer significant improvement. But the timing should feel right for you. The decision to proceed with surgery should never be rushed. I believe in providing you with clear, honest information about the potential benefits, risks, and expected recovery, so you can make a fully informed choice. Every person's situation is different. Factors such as your age, activity level, general health, and personal goals all influence the best approach. For example, a competitive athlete and a retired person with the same condition, may benefit from different treatment strategies tailored to their individual circumstances. When surgery is appropriate - I favour minimally invasive techniques wherever possible. Keyhole surgery typically offers smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, reduced discomfort, and faster recovery compared to traditional open procedures. Most of my operations are performed as day cases, allowing you to return home the same day. If I recommend surgery - I will explain exactly what the procedure involves, what the expected recovery timeline looks like, and what results you can realistically anticipate. I encourage you to ask questions, and involve family members in the discussion if you find that helpful. It is also perfectly sensible to seek a second opinion before deciding on surgery. I fully support patients who wish to do this. Making an informed decision about surgery takes time, and you should feel confident in your choice before proceeding. If you are unsure whether surgery is right for you, please contact my team to arrange a consultation. I will take time to understand your situation, and help you make the decision that is best for you.