Ingrowing toenail surgery (partial nail avulsion)

Category: Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief · All minor procedures, injections & pain relief

What it is

Surgery for an ingrowing toenail removes the offending edge (and sometimes a wedge of the nail bed) to stop the nail piercing the surrounding skin. A chemical (phenol) is often applied to the nail bed to prevent that edge regrowing — the most reliable lasting treatment for recurrent cases.

Why it is done

It is offered for recurrent ingrowing toenails causing pain, infection or difficulty walking, when conservative measures (proper cutting, footwear, avoiding tight shoes) have not resolved it. Diabetics and people with poor circulation are assessed carefully before any nail procedure.

How to prepare

Tell the clinician about diabetes, circulation problems, blood thinners and allergies. No fasting is needed. You will be advised to bring open footwear or loose shoes for after the procedure.

What happens during the procedure

A ring of local anaesthetic is injected around the toe base (a sharp sting followed by numbness), the nail edge is lifted and cut away with a small wedge, and phenol may be applied for about a minute to destroy the nail-forming cells at that edge. A dressing covers the toe. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Afterwards — recovery & results

Keep the dressing dry for the first day, then soak and re-dress the toe as instructed — usually daily salt-water soaks and dressings for one to two weeks. Walking is usually possible immediately in roomy shoes; avoid sport and tight shoes until healed (commonly two to four weeks).

Risks & considerations

Risks include infection, bleeding, delayed healing (particularly in diabetes or poor circulation), recurrence (much less likely with phenol), and a narrow nail afterwards. Report increasing pain, redness spreading, or a bad smell promptly.

Frequently asked questions

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