In short
A bunionette, or tailor's bunion, is a bony bump on the outer side of the foot at the base of the little toe, where the fifth metatarsal bone sticks out. It rubs in shoes and can become red, swollen and calloused. Wider shoes and padding usually help. If it stays painful, the fifth metatarsal can be realigned, often through keyhole incisions.
What is a bunionette?
It is similar to a bunion, but on the opposite side of the foot. The fifth metatarsal, the long bone leading to the little toe, bows or angles outwards, creating a bump at its head that rubs on footwear.
What causes it?
- Foot structure. The shape of the fifth metatarsal and how you walk.
- Tight footwear with a narrow toe box.
- Inherited foot shape. Bunions and bunionettes run in families.
- Pressure on the outer foot, for example sitting cross-legged.
What are the symptoms?
- Pain over the outer side of the foot at the base of the little toe
- Redness, swelling or a callus over the bump
- A bump that can slowly enlarge
- Discomfort in shoes and when walking
Treatment without surgery
- Wider shoes with a roomy toe box.
- Padding with gel pads or moleskin over the bump.
- Insoles to improve foot mechanics.
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medicines for flare-ups.
- Avoiding activities that press on the outer foot.
Surgery
If symptoms continue, surgery options include:
- Removing the bump (bunionectomy) for a simple prominence.
- Osteotomy. Cutting and realigning the fifth metatarsal so it no longer sticks out. This can often be done through small keyhole incisions.
- Soft tissue adjustment around the little toe joint when needed.
Images from Prof Mason's practice
X-rays shown with patient identifiers removed. Results vary between patients.
Common questions
What is recovery like after bunionette surgery?
Most people can walk fully on the foot in a post-operative shoe straight away, with the foot and little toe taped, for around six weeks. From six to twelve weeks you move into a normal shoe as healing allows. Full recovery, including return to sport, is usually by about six months.
Why is it called a tailor's bunion?
Tailors traditionally sat cross-legged, pressing the outside of their feet against the floor. Any activity or position that puts pressure on the outer edge of the foot can contribute.
Talk it through with a specialist
Consultations at Spire Liverpool, Salford and the Isle of Man. New patients £250.
Consultant Foot and Ankle Surgeon, MB BCh, PhD, FRCS (Tr&Orth), FRCS (Glasg), SFHEA, FFSTEd. GMC 6074953. Hunterian Professor, Royal College of Surgeons of England.
Page last reviewed 25 October 2026. This information is general and does not replace an assessment.