Bunionette (Tailor’s Bunion) or bump on outer side of foot – Non-Surgical & Keyhole Surgery Options

What is a Bunionette?

A bunionette , - also known as a Tailor’s bunion, small toe bunion, or bunion on the outside of the foot – is a bony lump that develops near the base of the little toe.
It happens when the bone on the outside of the foot (fifth metatarsal) becomes more prominent, either from natural foot shape, joint changes, or drifting of the toe.

The name Tailor’s bunion comes from tailors of the past, who sat cross‑legged for long hours, placing pressure on the outer edge of their feet.

Common Symptoms of a Bunionette

You may have a bunionette deformity if you notice:

• A visible bump near the little toe or painful lump by the pinky toe

• Discomfort in shoes, especially narrow footwear

• Redness or swelling around the bump

• Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably

• Pain that worsens with walking, standing, or activity

Causes of a Bunionette

A bunionette can develop due to:

• Inherited foot structure (runs in families)

• Tight or pointed shoes that squeeze the forefoot

• Changes in the fifth metatarsal bone position over time

• Arthritis or joint degeneration

• Previous foot injuries

Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatment

Not all bunionettes require surgery. Many can be managed with simple measures, such as:

• Wider or roomier shoes – reducing pressure on the bump

• Shoe stretching or modifications – to create more forefoot space

• Silicone pads or sleeves – for cushioning and protection

• Custom orthotics – to improve foot alignment and relieve pressure

• Ice and anti-inflammatory medication – to reduce pain and swelling

• Activity modification – avoiding aggravating footwear or movements, -easier said than done!

These options can provide bunionette pain relief without surgery.

Surgical Treatment for a Bunionette

If pain persists despite non‑surgical options, bunionette surgery may be considered.

Open Surgery

A traditional approach with a larger incision to reshape or reposition the bone.

Minimally Invasive (Keyhole) Bunionette Surgery – My Preferred Technique

This advanced method uses tiny incisions to access and correct the deformity with specialised instruments.
Benefits may include:

• Smaller scars and better cosmetic outcome, no stitches

• Less tissue trauma and swelling, less nerve irritation

• Quicker recovery and earlier return to normal footwear

• Less postoperative pain

Every procedure is tailored to the patient’s foot shape and severity of deformity.

When to Consider Surgery

Surgery may be an option if:

• You have persistent bunionette pain despite footwear changes

• The bump is getting larger or more prominent

• The deformity affects your ability to walk or wear shoes comfortably

• If you have developed ulcers or painful callosities

Alternative Names for Bunionette

Patients may search for this condition using terms such as:

• Tailor’s bunion

• Bunion on the outside of the foot

• Small toe bunion

• Fifth metatarsal bunion

• Bump near the little toe

• Painful lump by pinky toe

Book a Consultation

If you have a painful bump on the outside of your foot, early assessment can help you avoid long‑term discomfort.

I offer an assessment towards both non‑surgical management and advanced minimally invasive keyhole bunionette surgery in Melbourne, Ballarat, and also welcome patients interstate and internationally who suffer with this problem.

Contact us today to learn more about your treatment options.