Minor Toenail Surgery

Nail surgery is the process of permanently removing a problem nail using a chemical called phenol, whether it be ingrown and infected or dystrophic and thickened. We can partially remove a small section of nail or totally remove it in more severe cases. Nail surgery isn’t always the most appropriate option; we can however offer pain free solutions without permanently removing the nail bed. All options will be discussed with your podiatrist at the initial consultation. You will then be provided with an individual treatment plan.

What is the process after nail surgery?

Following nail surgery you will wear a dry dressing and be reviewed within 4-5 days. At your review appointment, the toe is cleansed with sterile saline and a thin antiseptic dressing is then applied. This dressing must be kept in place and dry for 3 days. You will be shown how to bathe and apply the dressings thereafter at home. It can take up to 6 weeks for complete healing, however the majority of patients are pain free within a couple of weeks.

What are the risks?

There are a few risks you should be aware of before you have nail surgery.

• Re-growth: occasionally the removed section of nail may regrow and need to be removed again. This happens in less than five in every 100 cases.
• Infection of the site during healing may occur, as with any operation. Occasionally, antibiotics may be required.
• Pain: it is normal to have some mild pain or soreness once the anaesthetic has worn off. It is unusual for this to be severe or to last longer than 24 hours.
• Very rarely: in some extremely rare cases, temporary or permanent painful nerve damage could occur or you could have a severe allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic.

 Are there any alternatives to nail surgery?

 Routine podiatry treatment, such as cutting back the corner of the nail or following our self-care advice, may help in the short term, but is unlikely to offer a permanent solution if the problem has been recurrent or longstanding.

 How can I prepare for nail surgery?

You should arrange to have the day of your surgery off work so that you can rest at home afterwards. You can resume normal activities the following day but should avoid swimming or impact sports such as football until your toe is fully healed (approximately four to six weeks). You should not drive a car on the day of the surgery. It is not advisable to walk home as this can increase bleeding. We recommend that you organise a taxi or for someone to take you home afterwards. Your nail surgery appointment will last approximately one hour.