Most orthopaedic surgeons feel cosmetic foot surgery is inappropriate, and many have treated patients for complications from such surgery, according to the results of an online survey.

Cosmetic foot surgery is rising in popularity for people who want to make their feet narrower to fit into high-heel shoes or improve their appearance. But a separate survey of consumers indicates most would not have the surgery if it was the only way to make their feet prettier or allow them to fit into particular shoes.

The results of the surveys were presented by Nancy Kadel, assistant professor of orthopaedics and sports medicine at the UW, and her colleagues on March 11 at the 71st annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons in San Francisco.

In a survey of members of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), 82 percent of orthopaedic surgeons said cosmetic surgery for feet is inappropriate and 50 percent said they have treated patients for problems associated with complications from the surgery.

In addition, 74 percent of consumers surveyed said they would not have cosmetic foot surgery if it was their only option for fitting into high heels or improving the appearance of their feet.

All types of surgery have associated risks, the researchers warned, and complications from cosmetic foot surgery could lead to problems with walking or wearing shoes comfortably. The AOFAS recommended not performing the surgery just to improve the appearance of the foot.