For what it's worth, I had bunioneictomies on both big toes, including fusion with screws and plates. Now that the joint has fused, my surgeon said I could have the hardware removed. But it doesn't bother me so I'm leaving it alone.,

If the hardware does bother you, and the surgeon says it can be removed safely, I'd probably get that done. See Aaron's post about his sister.

All the best to you!

Joe