When foot or ankle pain does not improve with conservative care, surgery can correct the problem and restore comfortable movement. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, our experienced Albuquerque podiatric surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, from minimally invasive techniques to complex reconstructions, for conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, tendon injuries, fractures, and ankle problems.
We believe surgery should be a thoughtful, well-informed decision. We recommend a procedure only when it is the right choice for you, and we explain every option clearly so you can move forward with confidence.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation
Urgent Injuries: For a foot or ankle injury with severe pain, inability to bear weight, visible deformity, or signs of infection, contact our office promptly. We offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent issues.
When Foot or Ankle Surgery Is Recommended
Most foot and ankle conditions are treated without surgery first. We turn to a surgical option when conservative care has been tried and the problem still limits your life. Surgery may be the right choice when:
- Pain persists despite footwear changes, orthotics, injections, or therapy
![Foot & Ankle Surgeon in Albuquerque, NM]()
- A deformity such as a bunion or hammertoe is worsening or interfering with shoes
- An injury or fracture will not heal properly without repair
- A nerve, tendon, or joint problem continues to limit walking and activity
- Arthritis or instability is reducing your mobility and quality of life
The goal is always to do the right thing at the right time, not to rush toward surgery and not to leave a fixable problem untreated.
Foot and Ankle Surgeries We Perform
Our podiatric surgeons treat the full range of foot and ankle conditions. Below are some of the most common procedures we perform for Albuquerque patients.
Bunion Surgery
We correct bunions by realigning the bone and joint to relieve pain and improve the shape of the foot. We offer both traditional and minimally invasive approaches, and our guide compares minimally invasive bunion surgery versus open surgery. Learn more on our bunion treatment page.
Hammertoe Surgery
When a hammertoe becomes rigid or painful, surgery can straighten the toe and relieve pressure. Many cases are managed without surgery first; see our hammertoe treatment options.
Neuroma Surgery
For a Morton's neuroma that does not respond to conservative care, surgery addresses the irritated nerve to eliminate ball-of-foot pain. Explore our neuroma treatment page for the full range of options.
Ankle Surgery and Ankle Replacement
We treat ankle instability, arthritis, and severe fractures with reconstructive procedures, and for advanced ankle arthritis, total ankle replacement may be an option. Read about who is a candidate for total ankle replacement and what ankle replacement recovery involves.
Tendon and Fracture Surgery
We repair tendon injuries and fractures that will not heal on their own, including Achilles tendon injuries and ankle fractures, to restore strength and stability.
Ingrown Toenail and Skin Procedures
For recurring ingrown toenails and certain skin conditions, in-office procedures provide lasting relief. See our ingrown toenail treatment guide and a short video on ingrown toenail removal.
Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery corrects many common problems, including bunions and hammertoes, through several small incisions rather than one large opening. For appropriate candidates, this approach can mean less tissue disruption, reduced scarring, less swelling, and a faster return to normal activity.
Not every condition is suited to a minimally invasive technique, and larger or more complex deformities may be better corrected with a traditional open procedure. During your consultation, we explain which approach is the best fit for your foot, your condition, and your goals.
Preparing for Surgery and Recovery
Good preparation leads to a smoother recovery. Once surgery is scheduled, we walk you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, including activity, footwear, and follow-up care. Our resource on how to prepare for your foot surgery and recovery helps you plan ahead.
Recovery looks different for every procedure. Some patients are back in regular shoes within weeks, while bone and joint procedures take longer to fully heal. We support you at every stage and adjust your plan as you progress.
What to Expect at Your Surgical Consultation
Our goal is for you to leave understanding your diagnosis, your options, and what surgery would involve. Every consultation is thorough and tailored to your condition.
1. History and conversation: We review your symptoms, prior treatment, activity level, and your goals for recovery.
2. Physical exam: We examine the affected area and assess how the condition affects the way you stand, walk, and move.
3. On-site imaging: Digital X-rays and diagnostic tools let us evaluate bones, joints, and alignment quickly and comfortably.
4. A clear plan: We explain whether surgery is recommended, which approach fits best, and what recovery looks like, in plain language and without pressure.
Why Patients Choose New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute
Patients across the Albuquerque metro area trust us with their surgical care because we combine surgical expertise with a conservative-first philosophy.
- Experienced podiatric surgeons: Our doctors perform everything from minimally invasive procedures to complex reconstructions, with more than 100 years of combined experience.
- Conservative-first approach: We exhaust appropriate non-surgical options and recommend surgery only when it is truly the best choice.
- Advanced surgical options: We offer both minimally invasive and traditional techniques, matched to your condition and goals.
- Patient education and advocacy: We explain your diagnosis and every option, and make sure you understand your recovery plan before you go home.
- Convenient Albuquerque location: Our Northeast Heights office on Pan American Fwy NE offers on-site digital X-rays and prompt appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is foot or ankle surgery necessary?
Surgery is usually considered when pain or a deformity limits your daily activity and conservative care has not provided enough relief. A podiatric surgeon evaluates your condition, imaging, and goals to recommend surgery only when it is the right step.
What is minimally invasive foot surgery?
Minimally invasive foot surgery corrects a problem through small incisions rather than one large opening. For appropriate candidates, it can mean less tissue disruption, reduced scarring, and a faster return to normal activity than traditional open surgery.
How long is recovery after foot or ankle surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure and the condition treated. Many patients protect the foot in a special shoe or boot at first and return to regular footwear over several weeks, while bone procedures take longer to fully heal. Your surgeon provides a personalized timeline.
Will I be able to walk after bunion surgery?
Many bunion patients are able to bear weight in a protective shoe or boot soon after surgery, depending on the procedure. Your surgeon will explain your specific weight-bearing instructions and recovery plan before the procedure.
Is foot or ankle surgery covered by insurance?
Medically necessary foot and ankle surgery is typically covered by insurance, though coverage varies by plan. Our team will review your benefits and explain expected costs with you before surgery.
Who performs foot and ankle surgery at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute?
Our experienced podiatric surgeons perform foot and ankle procedures, from minimally invasive techniques to complex reconstructions. Together our doctors bring more than 100 years of combined experience to patient care.
Our Albuquerque Location
New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute provides expert foot and ankle surgery at our Northeast Heights office, serving patients throughout Albuquerque and the surrounding metro area.
Northeast Heights Location
Address: 4343 Pan American Fwy NE, Ste 234, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: (505) 880-1000
Services: Bunion, hammertoe, neuroma, tendon, fracture, and ankle surgery, including minimally invasive procedures, plus comprehensive foot and ankle care
Our Northeast Heights podiatrists serve patients throughout the Albuquerque area in a modern, comfortable setting with on-site digital X-rays.
Communities We Serve
- Albuquerque
- Rio Rancho
- Corrales
- Bernalillo
- The greater Albuquerque metro area
Schedule a Consultation with an Albuquerque Foot and Ankle Surgeon
If foot or ankle pain is limiting your life and conservative care has not helped, our surgeons can help you understand your options. We will evaluate your condition, explain whether surgery is the right step, and walk you through what to expect so you can make a confident decision.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation
Call (505) 880-1000 to schedule at our Albuquerque office.
