​

This page provides important information about ingrowing toenails and nail surgery. Please read it carefully before your appointment.

 

What is an ingrowing toenail?

An ingrowing toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, inflammation and infection.

 

Common causes:

• Damage or trauma to the nail or nail bed

• Poor nail cutting technique

• Infection of the nail plate or nail bed

• Incorrect or badly fitting footwear

 

Common symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness

• Redness and swelling

• Infection and discharge (pus)

In severe or long-standing cases, chronic infection may develop and antibiotics may be required.

​

​

What treatments are available?

In many cases, the problem can be managed by:

• Reshaping the nail

• Applying a nail pack where appropriate

• Reviewing footwear choices

If the nail shape has become permanently damaged, or infection continues to recur, nail surgery may be recommended.

 

​

What does nail surgery involve?

Nail surgery is a minor procedure performed under local anaesthetic.

During the procedure:

1. A local anaesthetic is administered at the base of the toe to numb the area.

2. Part or all of the nail is removed, depending on the condition being treated.

3. A chemical is applied to the nail bed to help prevent regrowth of the section of nail that has been removed.

4. A sterile dressing is applied.

​

​

How long does recovery take?

• The toe should be rested for the first 2–3 days after surgery.

• Follow-up dressing appointments will be required.

• Healing typically takes between 3 and 12 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and individual healing rates.

 

Preparing for your appointment

 

Before the day of surgery

Please ensure:

• You know which clinic you are attending.

• Your appointment date and time are suitable.

• Patients under 16 years of age are accompanied by a parent or responsible adult. Treatment cannot be provided without appropriate supervision.

 

On the day of surgery

• Eat normally before your appointment.

• Continue taking your usual medication unless specifically advised otherwise.

• Please bring an up-to-date list of any medication you take, including health supplements.

• Bring suitable footwear, such as open-toed sandals or roomy trainers, as the dressing may be bulky.

• We do not recommend driving immediately after surgery. Please arrange transport home.

• You may wish to bring a magazine, book or other reading material.

​

​

What should I expect during the appointment?

• Your treatment options will be discussed before any procedure takes place.

• Questions about your medication and medical history help us assess your suitability for treatment.

• Appointments typically last around one hour, although your podiatrist will advise you on the day.

• A local anaesthetic will be administered and usually takes around two hours to wear off.

• A dressing change appointment will usually be arranged for 2–4 days after surgery.

​

​

Will I require time off work or school?

Time off work or school can often be minimised by arranging surgery towards the latter part of the week, allowing the weekend to be used for rest and recovery.

​

​

Further questions

If you have any questions before your appointment, please contact the clinic. We will be happy to help.