Hallux valgus is the formal medical term for bunions. When a person has hallux valgus, the base of the big toe juts outward and the big toe leans in toward the other toes. The enlarged joint may be painful. Hallux valgus is genetic and occurs naturally in some men and women as they age. The condition can be made worse by wearing high heels and tight fitting shoes. Even though orthotics and toe spacers can relieve the symptoms of bunions, surgery is the only way to correct the bone deformity. In the US, hallux valgus surgery costs around $11,000, and in the UK it is about £8,000. Abroad, patients can undergo this procedure for much less.

In Mexico, a hallux valgus procedure only costs $1,500 or £1,100, and in Costa Rica, the price is $2,500 or £1,700. Latin America has many orthopedic surgeons who specialize in podiatry, and patients will have no trouble finding an experienced and qualified surgeon. Doctors in Mexico and Costa Rica often attend medical school in the US or UK, so they are well-versed in the latest techniques and research. Hallux valgus surgery does not require a long recovery time, but patients can extend their stay in Latin America without spending much money.