Ingrown Toenail Procedure
Surgically fix a chronic ingrown toenail using partial nail avulsion or a total nail avulsion
Chronic Ingrown Toenail Procedure
Ingrown Toenail Procedure
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Pre-Procedure Steps
Assessment
The podiatrist will assess the toenail, surrounding tissue, and any signs of infection.
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the toe.
Procedure Options
Partial Nail Avulsion
Purpose
Removes only the ingrown portion of the nail.
Steps
- The podiatrist carefully trims and removes the ingrown side of the nail.
- A chemical (like phenol)is applied to the nail matrix (growth area) to stop the ingrown section from regrowing.
Total Nail Avulsion
Purpose
Removes the entire nail if the ingrown issue is severe or recurrent across the whole nail.
Steps
- The entire nail plate is removed.
- A chemical is used to destroy the matrix, preventing nail regrowth.
Post-Procedure Care
Wound Care
The toe is cleaned, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Follow-Up
The patient is advised to keep the toe clean and change dressings regularly.
Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient.
Infection Prevention
Antiseptics will be advised or Antibiotics prescribed if an infection is present.
Recovery
Healing
Healing generally takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the procedure.
Regrowth
The nail may not regrow if the matrix is destroyed, or it may grow back narrower and properly shaped.
This type of surgical treatment is typically effective for chronic ingrown toenails that do not respond to conservative treatments. If you're considering this, consult a podiatrist to determine the best approach based on your specific condition.
Book an Appointment
with Launceston Podiatrist
If you’re experiencing foot or ankle discomfort or simply want to learn more about how we can help, please get in touch with our friendly team at Launceston Podiatrist. We are here to answer your questions and guide you on your journey to healthier feet.
Book an appointment with Launceston Podiatrist today and take the first step towards better foot health.
