Learn how nail surgery can relieve pain and restore comfort to your toes
Nail surgery might sound intimidating, but it’s a straightforward procedure that can bring immense relief for people dealing with persistent nail problems. Conditions such as ingrown toenails, recurring infections, or thickened nails can be painful and disrupt daily life. When conservative treatments like trimming, antibiotics, or footwear changes don’t provide lasting results, nail surgery becomes a practical solution. The goal is to eliminate the source of pain and restore comfort to your feet so you can move with ease again.
The Process of Nail Surgery at a Podiatrist
Nail surgery performed by a podiatrist is a minor and highly effective procedure. Here is a step-by-step overview of what typically happens:
- Consultation: Before the procedure, your podiatrist will thoroughly examine your nail and surrounding area. They’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any prior treatments. This ensures the surgery is the right course of action for your condition.
- Preparation: On the day of the surgery, the area around your nail is cleaned and sterilised to prevent infection. A local anesthetic is then applied to numb your toe completely. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Removal: Depending on the severity of your condition, the podiatrist may remove part of the nail (a partial nail avulsion) or the entire nail (a total nail avulsion). In cases of ingrown toenails, the edge causing the problem is carefully removed.
- Matrix Treatment: To prevent the problem from recurring, the podiatrist often treats the nail matrix—the tissue beneath the nail that produces new growth—using a chemical solution. This step ensures the nail doesn’t grow back incorrectly.
- Bandaging: After the procedure, the area is cleaned again and securely bandaged. You’ll also receive guidance on how to care for your toe as it heals.
The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and you’ll be able to walk out on the same day.
Is Nail Surgery Painful?
One of the most common concerns about nail surgery is pain. The good news is that the procedure itself is painless due to the local anesthetic. You may feel a small pinch when the anesthetic is injected, but after that, your toe will be completely numb.
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort once the anesthetic wears off. Your podiatrist may recommend over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol, to manage this. Most patients report that the relief from no longer having an ingrown or problematic nail far outweighs the temporary discomfort after surgery.
What Happens After the Surgery?
Post-surgery care is crucial for a smooth recovery and to minimize the risk of infection. Here’s what you can expect in the days and weeks following your nail surgery:
- Dressings and Hygiene: Your podiatrist will provide detailed instructions on how to change the dressing and keep the area clean. It’s essential to follow these guidelines to ensure proper healing. You will need to return to the clinic for follow-up appointments to have the dressing changed professionally and to monitor healing.
- Activity Levels: While you can usually resume light activities immediately, it’s a good idea to avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, or wearing tight footwear for at least a week. This allows the area to heal without unnecessary pressure or irritation.
- Healing Time: Most people find their toe feels much better within a few days, though full healing may take 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, it’s important to monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and contact your podiatrist if these occur.
- Preventing Recurrence: If a portion of the nail matrix was treated, the nail may grow back thinner or not at all in that area. This significantly reduces the chance of future problems. Your podiatrist can also provide advice on nail care and footwear to prevent issues from developing again.
Nail surgery is a safe and effective way to resolve stubborn nail problems that haven’t responded to other treatments. However, it’s important to note that not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure. Individuals with severe circulation issues, certain immune disorders, or uncontrolled diabetes may need to explore alternative treatments, as these conditions can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. Always discuss your medical history with your podiatrist to ensure the procedure is right for you.
While it’s natural to feel apprehensive, the procedure is quick, relatively painless, and delivers long-term relief. By following your podiatrist’s guidance before and after the surgery, you can ensure a smooth recovery and get back to enjoying life without the discomfort of nail issues.
If you’re struggling with a painful or persistent nail condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to your podiatrist to discuss whether nail surgery is right for you. If you’d like to make an appointment you can book online here.
