Are the plates and screws used to fix a broken ankle permanent?

Yes: Most plates and screws used to fix a broken ankle are meant to be permanent; however, there is no harm in removing the hardware if it causes problems. Sometimes the hardware is prominent under the skin, or may interfere with motion; in those cases the hardware can be removed. In some types of ankle fractures, a temporary screw is inserted, and this is generally removed after a few months.

Yes: The implants used to stabilize a fractured ankle are made to stay in the body forever. The implants, however, are sometimes removed if there are problems (prominent, infection, fracture doesn't heal).

Hardware: Can go either way. Depends on if the hardware is bothersome after you heal the fracture. Plates and screws are used to hold the bones in place til the fracture heals. Once healed, the hardware is useless... Consult your doc if you feel you want the hardware removed.