Ingrown Toenail Surgery

Ingrown toenail surgery is a common procedure to alleviate pain and prevent infection caused by an ingrown toenail. This condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting the big toe, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Surgical intervention becomes necessary when conservative treatments fail to resolve the issue or when the condition frequently recurs.

The toenail and surrounding skin are key anatomical features involved in this procedure. In severe cases, part or all of the affected toenail is removed to allow for proper healing and to prevent future occurrences. A chemical called phenol is often applied to the affected area after a partial nail avulsion to prevent the nail from growing back and becoming ingrown in the future. By addressing the root cause, ingrown toenail surgery can significantly improve a patient’s comfort and mobility.

Also known as: nail avulsion, toenail removal surgery.

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Everything You Need to Know

Ingrown toenail surgery is more than just a corrective procedure; it’s a precise intervention aimed at providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort caused by ingrown toenails. This surgery is particularly beneficial for those who have not found relief through non-surgical treatments such as proper nail trimming, soaking the foot, or using antiseptic creams.

Key benefits of ingrown toenail surgery include:

Pain Relief: Reduction or elimination of pain caused by the ingrown toenail.
Prevention of Infection: Reduces the risk of infection and further complications.
Long-Term Solution: Prevents the recurrence of ingrown toenails, allowing for better foot health.

Before Surgery

Consultation

The first step is a thorough consultation with one of our expert podiatrists surgeons. During this session, your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments will be reviewed to determine if ingrown toenail surgery is the right option for you. This consultation is essential for tailoring the treatment to your specific needs and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Health Assessment

A comprehensive health assessment will be conducted to ensure you are fit for surgery. This includes evaluating your overall health, checking for any underlying conditions that may affect the surgery, assessing the nail bed of the affected area, and discussing any medications you are currently taking. Blood tests and possibly an X-ray may be required to get a complete picture of your health.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

To ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery, you will receive detailed pre-procedure instructions. These may include:

Medication Adjustments: Guidance on which medications to stop or continue.
Fasting: Instructions to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight on the day of your surgery.
Lifestyle Advice: Recommendations such as stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy diet.

During Surgery

Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced surgical team are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Anaesthesia

You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the surgery. Options include local anaesthesia, which numbs the affected toe, allowing you to stay awake but pain-free during the procedure.

Surgical Process

The surgeon will carefully perform a partial nail avulsion, which involves removing the ingrown part of the toenail using a local anaesthetic. In some cases, a chemWical such as phenol may be applied to prevent that part of the nail from growing back. This precise process ensures that the nail grows correctly and reduces the risk of future problems.

Monitoring and Recovery

Post-surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. Our care team will manage your pain and monitor your initial recovery to ensure everything is proceeding as expected.

After Surgery

Our commitment to your care continues well beyond the operating room.

Immediate Post-Op Care

Managing post-operative effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort is crucial. Significant pain management is essential to ensure a smooth recovery process. Our team will provide you with pain management strategies and detailed care instructions. Keeping the wound clean and dry is vital to prevent infection.

Additionally, wearing shoes that fit properly is important to prevent the problem from coming back.

Follow-Up Care and Physical Therapy

Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and assess the success of the surgery. These visits are essential to address any concerns and ensure optimal recovery. Follow-up care is also crucial to monitor recovery and prevent complications related to toenail surgery.

Appointment and Treatment Plan

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation to discuss your goals and determine your suitability for ingrown toenail surgery.

Personalised Treatment Plan

A tailored treatment plan will be developed based on your consultation, outlining the specifics of your procedure and recovery plan.

Pre-Procedure Assessment

A thorough pre-procedure assessment ensures you are fit for surgery, involving necessary tests to uphold the highest standards of care and safety.

The Procedure - Nail Avulsion

Performed by our skilled medical team, the surgery will focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for your ingrown toenail. The procedure is designed to be safe and effective, providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort.

Aftercare and Recovery

Post-procedure, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions and have follow-up appointments to support your recovery and ensure the best results.

Top Tips for Recovery from Imaging Guided Injections

Follow all instructions: Adhere strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your clinician. Following instructions is crucial to avoid complications. Proper care is also essential to prevent issues such as ingrown nails, which can lead to further complications if not managed correctly.
Rest and recuperation: Allow your body ample time to heal, avoiding strenuous activities that could impact the results.
Stay hydrated and eat healthily: Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to support your recovery and overall well-being.