WEBBED TOE
SEPERATION SURGERY
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CONSIDERING WEBBED TOE SURGERY?
WALK PAIN-FREE WITH EXPERT CARE
For cases where conservative treatments are insufficient, or when webbed toe's cause significant pain and interfere with daily activities, surgical intervention may be recommended. At Sarasota Foot Care Center, our top-rated, award-winning, board-certified podiatrists specialize in advanced webbed toe surgery.
This procedure typically involves:
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Precisely dividing the connecting skin bridge (web) between the affected toes
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Designing natural-looking zigzag or wavy skin flaps to prevent straight-line scarring and re-webbing
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Meticulous reconstruction of normal toe contours with layered, tension-free closure
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In complex or complete syndactyly cases, a small full-thickness skin graft from the instep for optimal separation and appearance
Every surgery is fully customized based on the extent of webbing (partial vs. complete), which toes are involved, skin quality, and your cosmetic and functional goals. We use the latest microsurgical techniques and ultra-fine sutures whenever possible to deliver virtually invisible scars and the most natural separation possible—so you can return to pain-free walking as quickly as possible.
WHAT ARE WEBBED TOES?
Say goodbye to painful, irritated webbed toes and hello to comfortable, confident feet in sandals again.
Webbed toes, medically known as syndactyly, occur when two or more toes are joined together by a bridge of skin and soft tissue. This congenital condition can range from a thin, partial web that barely reaches the first toe joint to complete syndactyly, where the toes are fused all the way to the toenail. In most cases, only skin is involved (“simple” syndactyly); in rarer, complex cases, the bones or nails may also be partially fused.
While many people live comfortably with mild webbing, problematic syndactyly can trap moisture and debris, leading to chronic fungal infections, painful corns or calluses between the toes, skin maceration, and difficulty wearing open-toe shoes or going barefoot without irritation or embarrassment.
WEBBED TOE FACT:
Syndactyly is one of the most common congenital foot differences, occurring in approximately 1 in 2,000–2,500 births. It is roughly twice as common in males and often runs in families (50% of cases have a hereditary link). The second and third toes are the most frequently involved pair. Although the exact cause is usually genetic, it can occasionally be associated with broader syndromes—yet in the vast majority of cases, it is an isolated finding with no other health implications. When only skin is involved, surgical separation is straightforward, highly successful, and delivers both functional and cosmetic improvement.
What
are the
Symptoms?
Webbed toes can make walking painful, impacting your ability to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle.
Symptoms Includes:
While mild webbing may cause no issues at all, symptomatic webbed toes often present with:
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Recurrent fungal infections or athlete’s foot between the joined toes (due to trapped moisture)
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Chronic irritation, redness, or maceration (wet, white, peeling skin) in the web space
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Painful soft corns or calluses forming between the webbed toes from constant rubbing
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Difficulty properly cleaning between the toes, leading to odor or persistent infections
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Chafing, blisters, or raw skin when wearing sandals, flip-flops, or going barefoot
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Embarrassment or self-consciousness about appearance in open-toe shoes or at the beach/pool
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Occasional sharp pain or catching of the web on socks or bedding
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In severe or complete syndactyly: restricted toe spreading, altered gait, or pressure on adjacent toes
If you are experiencing the above symptoms, Sarasota Foot Care Center webbed toe surgery may be right for you!
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards healthier feet.
Webbed Toes are Common
Did you know?
Webbed toes are surprisingly common—about 1 in every 2,000–2,500 babies is born with some degree of toe syndactyly—making it one of the most frequent congenital foot differences. The good news? When only skin is involved (the most common scenario), modern surgical correction is straightforward, highly successful, and leaves toes looking and functioning completely naturally. One quick outpatient procedure can give you the separated, confident toes you’ve always wanted.
CAUSES OF
WEBBED TOES
Webbed Toes can result from:
Webbed toes are almost always present from birth and develop during early fetal development when the tissue between the toes fails to fully separate.
The most common causes and risk factors include:
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Genetics – Strong hereditary pattern; if a parent or sibling has webbed toes, the likelihood increases significantly (up to 50% of cases are familial).
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Congenital syndromes – Occasionally linked with conditions such as Apert, Poland, or Down syndrome, though most cases occur in otherwise healthy individuals.
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Ethnic background – Slightly higher incidence in certain populations, including individuals of European or Asian descent.
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Isolated occurrence – In the vast majority of people, webbed toes appear as a standalone trait with no other health concerns.
WILL WEBBED TOES GO AWAY ON THEIR OWN?
Webbed Toes Are Not Progressive — But Problems Can Worsen Over Time
Unlike many foot deformities, simple skin-only webbed toes do not typically worsen structurally with age. However, symptoms almost always become more troublesome as years pass due to:
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Chronic moisture trapping → recurrent fungal infections and maceration
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Repeated friction → painful soft corns and calluses between the toes
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Difficulty with hygiene → persistent odor or skin breakdown
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Increasing self-consciousness or limitation with open-toe footwear
Conservative measures (lamb’s wool, toe separators, antifungal powders, drying agents, and wider shoes) can temporarily ease irritation and infection, but they cannot separate the toes or eliminate the web. Continued irritation from daily shoe wear, sweating, or barefoot activities will only make symptoms more frequent and severe.
This commonly leads to:
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Chronic pain or raw skin between the toes
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Frequent or treatment-resistant athlete’s foot
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Embarrassment that limits sandal or pool time
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Occasional bleeding or ulceration in the web space
The Only Permanent Solution: Surgical Separation
Only syndactyly release surgery can fully divides the web, reconstructs natural toe contours, and prevents recurrence — delivering both functional relief and excellent cosmetic results that last a lifetime.
Our modern techniques offer:
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Tiny, hidden incisions and zigzag flap designs for nearly invisible scars
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Outpatient procedure (often in-office) under local anesthesia
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Immediate walking in a light protective shoe
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Return to normal shoes and activities in just 2–4 weeks
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Dramatically improved comfort and confidence in any footwear
One simple procedure. Lifelong freedom from webbed toe troubles.
WHAT CAN BE
DONE ABOUT WEBBED TOES?
Webbed Toe Correction: Tailored to Your Needs
Depending on whether your webbing is partial or complete, simple (skin only) or complex (bone/nail involvement), our board-certified podiatrists will recommend the safest, most effective approach—always with the least invasive option that delivers a beautiful, lasting result.
Common techniques include:
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Simple Web Release – Precise division of the skin bridge followed by zigzag (Z-plasty) or wavy flap redesign to create a natural, rounded web space and prevent scar contracture or re-webbing.
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Full-Thickness Skin Graft – For complete or long syndactyly cases, a small graft (usually taken from the instep of the same foot) provides extra skin so the toes can be fully separated without tension.
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Complex Syndactyly Reconstruction – When bones or nails are partially fused, careful separation of shared structures with possible nail bed or bone correction for normal toe appearance and function.
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Composite Release with Flap Coverage – Advanced local flap techniques (V-Y, double-opposing Z-plasty, etc.) to achieve maximum separation with minimal scarring.
All procedures are performed using ultra-fine instruments and sutures under magnification when needed, resulting in nearly invisible scars hidden in the natural toe creases.
At Sarasota Foot Care Center, your podiatrist will guide you through a personalized consultation, explaining each option and recommending the best procedure for your lifestyle, recovery goals, and long-term results.
Your care is our #1 priority.
WEBBED TOE DIAGNOSIS
Our comprehensive diagnostic process includes:
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Medical History: Reviewing your symptoms, lifestyle, and family history to understand contributing factors.
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Physical Exam: Assessing the bunion’s size, toe alignment, and impact on foot function.
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X-Ray: Imaging to evaluate the severity of the deformity and guide treatment planning.
MEDICAL HISTORY
Your First Visit: What to Expect
At Sarasota Foot Care Center, your top-rated Sarasota webbed toe surgeon starts with a thorough conversation to understand your unique experience.
We’ll ask:
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When did you first notice the webbing (or realize it was causing problems?
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How fast has it progressed?
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On a scale of 1–10, how much pain are you in?
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Have you tried any treatments so far?
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What shoes do you wear most often?
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Does your job keep you on your feet all day?
Your answers help us determine whether a simple in-office release or a slightly more advanced reconstruction is right for you—and ensure the final result is both functionally perfect and cosmetically beautiful.
We’re here to listen and help, and offer tailored solutions.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
During your visit, our board-certified podiatrist performs a gentle yet thorough hands-on examination of the affected toes.
We carefully evaluate:
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The extent of webbing (partial vs. complete, simple skin-only vs. complex with bone/nail involvement)
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Skin quality, thickness, and the presence of any corns, calluses, or maceration in the web space
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Signs of chronic irritation, fungal infection, redness, or odor
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Toe alignment and whether the webbing restricts natural spreading or causes overlapping
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Nail condition and any shared nail bed issues (in complex cases)
A quick visual and tactile assessment while you’re standing and walking helps us see how the webbing affects shoe fit, hygiene, and comfort in daily life.
X-RAY
If needed, weight-bearing X-rays are taken to document the anatomy and rule out underlying bone fusion. This allows us to design the perfect surgical plan—ensuring beautifully separated, natural-looking toes with scars you’ll barely see.
Most patients leave the visit knowing exactly what procedure is recommended, how simple the recovery will be, and seeing real before-and-after examples.
Your comfort and confidence matter. We make the process easy from the very first step.
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT
OPTIONS FOR WEBBED TOES
Not all webbed toes require surgery-
We Start with What Works for You!
Surgery is only recommended when the webbing actually causes real problems, such as:
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Repeated fungal infections or chronic irritation that won’t stay resolved
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Painful corns or raw skin between the toes
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Frequent skin breakdown, odor, or difficulty keeping the area clean and dry
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Significant embarrassment that limits your confidence in sandals, at the pool, or barefoot
The proper treatment for your webbed toes depends on the severity of pain, medical history, and if pain relief is achieved with conservative non-surgical treatments.
We work with you, not on you. Your goals guide the plan — whether that’s managing symptoms without surgery or achieving beautifully separated toes with one quick procedure.
SURGICAL TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR WEBBED TOES
Only when conservative care fails — or when you want permanent freedom from irritation, infections, and self-consciousness — do we recommend a simple, highly successful syndactyly release.
Webbed Toe Surgery: A Masterclass in Precision and Personalization
Every set of webbed toes tells its own story; whether a subtle web that’s plagued you with infections for years or complete fusion you’ve hidden in closed shoes your whole life. At Sarasota Foot Care Center, syndactyly correction is never cookie-cutter. It is a meticulously planned, artistry-meets-science procedure that delivers naturally separated, beautiful toes and complete confidence.
Depending on the type and complexity of your webbing, your surgeon will select the ideal technique (or combination) from these gold-standard methods:
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Simple Z-Plasty or Wavy Flap Release – The skin bridge is divided and reconfigured with elegant zigzag incisions that hide perfectly in the natural toe creases and prevent re-webbing.
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Full-Thickness Skin Grafting – For longer or complete syndactyly, a tiny graft (usually from the instep of the same foot) provides the extra skin needed for full, tension-free separation.
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Complex Reconstruction – When bones, nails, or tendons are partially shared, careful separation and reconstruction restores completely independent, normal-looking toes.
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Custom Flap Designs – Advanced local flaps (double-opposing Z-plasty, V-Y advancement, etc.) maximize separation while keeping scars virtually invisible.
Performed with magnification and ultra-fine instruments, every incision is hidden in the natural shadows and creases between the toes. Most procedures are done comfortably in-office under local anesthesia; you walk out the same day.
Your surgeon personally designs the surgery around your anatomy, skin type, and cosmetic goals, showing you before-and-after photos and explaining every step so you know exactly how beautiful and natural the final result will be.
Separated toes. Barely-there scars. Confidence restored; for good.
WEBBED TOE SURGERY RECOVERY
Recovery & Healing: What to Expect After Webbed Toe Surgery
Recovery from webbed toe (syndactyly) correction is typically quick, simple, and far easier than most patients imagine.
Here’s the usual timeline:
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Day of Surgery – Procedure is done under local anesthesia (you’re awake and comfortable). You walk out immediately in a light protective sandal or open-toe surgical shoe. No cast, no crutches.
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First 3–7 Days – Mild swelling and soreness are normal. Keep the foot elevated when resting, change the light bandage as instructed, and take over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication only if needed (most patients need very little).
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Week 1–2 – Return to the office for suture removal (if sutures are not dissolvable) and first dressing change. Most patients are already showering normally and wearing a roomy shoe or sandal.
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Weeks 2–4 – Transition to regular shoes as comfort allows. Light activities and driving resume. Scars begin softening and fading.
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4–6 Weeks – Back to all normal footwear, including most sandals and flip-flops. Swelling is minimal, and toes look and feel natural.
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3 Months – Final scar maturation; lines are thin, pale, and hidden in the natural web space.
Certain factors can extend healing:
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Smoking – Impedes blood flow and delays bone repair
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Diabetes or poor circulation – Slows tissue recovery
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Advanced age – Natural reduction in regenerative capacity
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Nutritional deficiencies – Especially in protein, vitamin D, or calcium
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Excess weight or high-impact activity – Places undue stress on the healing bone
Your surgeon provides a crystal-clear, written recovery plan, silicone scar gel if desired, and scheduled follow-ups with photos to show your beautiful progress.
Most patients say: “I wish I had done this years ago.” One quick procedure. A few weeks of easy care. A lifetime of comfortable, confident toes.
Walking After Webbed Toe Surgery: Freedom Starts Immediately
The moment your syndactyly release is complete, you’re back on your feet — literally.
At Sarasota Foot Care Center, webbed toe correction is designed for immediate walking. No casts. No crutches. No non-weight-bearing period. You simply slip into a light open-toe surgical sandal or roomy shoe and head home the same day.
This walk-right-away approach:
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Promotes circulation and reduces swelling
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Keeps the new web space open and healing naturally
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Lets you return to daily routines (work, errands, light exercise) almost immediately
Your surgeon will give you a simple, customized plan — usually just keeping the foot dry for the first few days and wearing a protective sandal for 1–3 weeks until sutures are out and swelling settles. Most patients are in regular shoes and sandals within 2–4 weeks.
Walk in with webbed toes. Walk out with beautifully separated ones.
It really is that easy.
WE DELIVER OPTIMAL RESULTS
WHY
HEALTHY FEET MATTER
Your feet carry the weight of your entire body, playing a critical role in locomotion, balance, and overall well-being.
Your Feet aren’t just part of your body—they’re the foundation of everything.
Every step you take, every mile you walk, every dance on the beach, every round of golf at sunrise—starts here.
When your feet hurt, you slow down. When you slow down, you sit more. When you sit more… your heart, your joints, your mood, your life—they all pay the price.
But when your feet are strong, pain-free, and aligned? You move. You thrive. You stay active—and that single choice fuels:
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Stronger heart & lungs
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Better balance & posture
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Lower risk of diabetes, obesity, and depression
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More energy, more joy, more years
At Sarasota Foot Care Center, we don’t just fix webbed toes. We unlock your body’s full potential—one healthy step at a time.
Don’t wait until pain stops you. Start with your feet. Start now.
Beautiful Feet. Built to Thrive.
Foundation
Your Feet. Your Powerhouse.
Fix them first—and the rest of your body thrives.
Because when your feet are strong, you move more. When you move more, you live longer, stronger, happier.
Don’t let pain steal your steps.
Healthy feet = Healthy life.
Start here. Start now.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD'S HEALTHLY FEET
WALK PAIN-FREE WITH EXPERT CARE
At Sarasota Foot Care Center, we equip you with the knowledge to make confident, informed choices about your bunion care—every step of the way.
No matter where your condition stands, our team works tirelessly to eliminate pain, restore function, and help you put your best foot forward.
Take the first step today.
Our Services
At Sarasota Footcare Center, we offer comprehensive foot care services to help you maintain healthy feet. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, our experienced podiatrists are here to address all your foot care needs.
Treatment Options
We provide a range of treatment options for various foot conditions, including bunions. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain and discomfort. Our team can offer both conservative and surgical treatments to alleviate bunion symptoms.
Foot Care Specialists
Our team of skilled podiatrists specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle problems. Whether you are dealing with bunions, heel pain, or sports injuries, we are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you get back on your feet.
Preventive Care
Preventive foot care is essential for maintaining overall foot health. Regular check-ups and early intervention can help prevent serious foot problems in the future. Trust Sarasota Footcare Center to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards healthier feet.
WHERE TO FIND US
Opening Hours
Mon - Thur
Friday
Saturday & Sunday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 1:00 pm
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