Hallux Valgus (bunions) surgery is an operation to ease bunions. The operation aims to straighten the joints as much as possible. There are many different types of operation which are used to treat bunions. These range from operations to 'trim' parts of the joint, to a total artificial replacement of the big toe joint (similar to a knee or a hip replacement). The operation chosen by the specialist depends on the severity of the bunion, the shape of your foot, and other factors such as if you have arthritis in the joint.