I have a plantar plate tear and an appointment with a DPM specializing in foot and ankle surgery in three days. I’ve had X-rays and an MRI. I’d be grateful for any help from someone who has had the surgery on what to expect, what to ask the surgeon, what the recovery is like, or general commiseration. 
The MRI results: Abnormal signal is noted at the plantar aspect of the distal plantar plantar plate at the first metatarsophalangeal joint, consistent with tear. The sesamoid-phalangeal, metatarsal-sesamoid, inter-sesamoid, and collateral ligaments are intact.
The distal aspect of the second plantar plate appears thickened and intermediate in signal, and is also likely torn.
There is an abnormal appearance to the distal recess of the fourth plantar plate, also suggestive of tear.
Thanks in advance.
What toe hurts you? If this just happened you might be able to avoid surgery. I am also a Podiatric Surgeon that specializes in Sports Medicine. More then happy to answer questions if you want to PM me. Many different ways to fix if needed but again if just happened there are things to do to avoid surgery also for this condition.
No one has actually been through this? Guess I’ll find out for myself in a two weeks…
In case anyone ever searches this topic…
Had the surgery a month ago, no complications. Painful enough to need pain pills for the first 2 days, and a bad day when the stitches were removed (13 days after surgery) - Ouch! Stayed off my feet for 2 weeks, went back to work on a knee scooter the third week, using a boot this week. Hoping to be able to drive sometime next week. Ugly scarring right now, especially on my toes, but hoping it will get better.
Suggestions: a leg elevation wedge ($25-amazon) and a support frame to assist getting up from the toilet ($37-amazon) have been really helpful. Also used hospital bath cloths - really missed being able to stand in the shower!