Ingrowing Toenail Surgery

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What is nail surgery?

Nail surgery is a minor procedure carried out by a podiatrist to treat problematic or

repeatedly ingrown toenails.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, which

can cause pain, redness, swelling and sometimes infection. Nail surgery can provide a

longer-term solution when an ingrown toenail continues to return or is causing ongoing

problems.

When is nail surgery used?

Nail surgery may be recommended when an ingrown toenail is:

• Repeatedly becoming ingrown

• Causing ongoing pain or discomfort

• Associated with recurrent inflammation or infection

• Not responding to conservative treatment

• Affecting footwear, work, sport or everyday activities

Your podiatrist will assess the nail and surrounding skin and discuss the most

appropriate treatment option with you.

What does the procedure involve?

Nail surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic, so the toe is completely numb

during the procedure.

Depending on the problem, only the affected side of the nail may be removed rather than the entire nail.

The podiatrist will carefully remove the section of nail that is causing the problem.

A chemical treatment called Phenol may then be applied to the nail matrix (the area where the nail grows from) to reduce the likelihood of that section of nail growing back.

The toe is then dressed, and you will be given clear aftercare instructions.

What happens afterwards?

Once the anaesthetic wears off, the toe may be tender for a short period. Some mild

bleeding, redness or discharge can be expected as the area heals.

The toe will normally require regular dressing and cleaning during the healing period. Your

podiatrist will advise you on how to care for the toe at home and may arrange a follow-up

appointment to monitor healing.

Most patients are able to return to their usual activities relatively quickly, although this can

vary depending on the individual and the type of procedure performed.

Will the nail grow back?

If only part of the nail is removed and the nail matrix is treated, the aim is to prevent that

section of nail from growing back. The remaining nail should continue to grow normally.

There is no absolute guarantee that the nail will not regrow, and occasionally further

treatment may be required.

Is nail surgery suitable for everyone?

Nail surgery is not necessary for every ingrown toenail. In many cases, conservative podiatry

treatment can resolve the problem without surgery.

Your podiatrist will assess your nail, medical history and individual circumstances before

recommending nail surgery. If surgery is appropriate, they will explain the procedure,

expected healing time and aftercare with you beforehand.