What does a nail surgery involve?

Ingrown toenails are a common issue and when severe can make each step you take agonising.

Chronic or severe ingrown toenails may require a minor surgical procedure performed in the clinic chair using local anaesthetic.

Toenail surgery can include a Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) or a Total Nail Avulsion (TNA). PNAs are more commonly performed and involve the problem portion of the nail being removed. Whereas, a TNA is the removal of the whole nail. The procedure you undergo is determined by which part of the nail is affected and personal preferences.

Before the procedure, local anesthetic is injected into the toe so that no pain can be felt.

The affected side of the nail (PNA) or the whole nail (TNA) is removed. No stitches are required. A permanent nail removal involves the use of a chemical called Phenol, which is applied at the base of the nail to prevent it from regrowing. The toe will be dressed and your podiatrist will change this dressing again a few days after the nail surgery. At home when the anesthetic wears off, pain is usually only mild and Parecetomol (Panadol) may be used as directed.

Normally people are back on their feet the next day, however, it is recommended to take it easy and avoid sports for 2 weeks after the surgery.

Healing usually occurs over a period of approximately 6-8 weeks. However, healing is dependant on your general health, whether you had a partial or total nail removal, pre- or post- op infection and if you smoke. Any surgical procedures involve risks such as post-op infection.

If you think you may benefit from a nail surgery see your Podiatrist for an assessment.

An initial appointment is always required with the Podiatrist and together you will decide if conservative treatment options or a nail surgery is the best option for you.

For more information, call our office on 6272 4000 or click here to make a booking.