Nail Surgery

Toenail surgery is a routine, effective procedure that offers long-term relief for painful and persistent nail conditions. Performed under local anaesthetic, this minor surgical procedure is safe, minimally invasive, and tailored to address a variety of toenail issues that can otherwise impact comfort and quality of life.

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What Conditions Can Toenail Surgery Treat?

Toenail surgery may be recommended for various conditions where the toenail is causing persistent discomfort, infection, or other complications. Some of the common conditions treated through nail surgery include:

  • Ingrowing Toenails
    Occurs when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection.

  • Involuted Toenails
    A toenail that curves inward, potentially digging into the skin and leading to discomfort and possible infection.

  • Pincer Toenails
    A condition where the edges of the nail curl inwards more than usual, sometimes causing pain and pressure on the surrounding skin.

  • Paronychia
    An infection that affects the skin around the nail, often resulting in redness, swelling, and tenderness.

  • Deformed Toenails
    Abnormal nail shapes that may lead to discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or walking.

Fungal Nail Infections
Persistent fungal infections that have altered the nail's structure or colour and have not responded well to other treatments.

What to Expect During Nail Surgery

Toenail surgery at T.A Clinic is a straightforward process designed to provide relief while ensuring a comfortable experience from start to finish. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

  • Upon arrival, our podiatrist will discuss the procedure with you and ensure you are comfortable. A local anaesthetic is then administered to the affected toe, ensuring that the procedure is entirely pain-free.

    • The podiatrist will remove either the problematic portion of the nail (partial nail avulsion) or, in some cases, the entire nail (total nail avulsion), depending on the severity and nature of your condition.

    • A specialised chemical is applied to the root of the removed nail segment to prevent regrowth, reducing the chance of recurring problems.

  • After the procedure, a protective dressing is applied, providing ample padding to safeguard the toe. You’ll leave with clear post-surgery instructions to ensure optimal healing.

  • We recommend a follow-up appointment within the first 2 days for redressing, followed by a second review around 4 weeks post-surgery. This allows us to monitor the healing process and address any questions you may have.

The entire procedure, including preparation and aftercare instructions, typically takes about an hour, allowing time for a smooth, unhurried experience.

Post-Surgery Care and Risks

While toenail surgery is generally safe and highly effective, understanding the potential risks can help you feel prepared and informed. Our team takes every precaution to ensure a smooth recovery, but some potential risks may include:

  • It’s common to experience some mild pain or tenderness once the anaesthetic wears off. The podiatrist will provide guidance on appropriate pain relief, and symptoms usually subside within 24 hours.

  • In rare cases, an infection may occur in the days following surgery, or there may be prolonged weeping from the site. It’s essential to keep the area clean and follow all aftercare instructions.

  • In approximately 5-10% of cases, the treated nail may regrow. While regrowth is usually less problematic than the initial condition, a second surgery may sometimes be required.

  • Extremely rare but possible complications include temporary or permanent nerve damage or an allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic. Our team is here to address any concerns and provide emergency guidance if needed.

Our priority at T.A Clinic is to ensure a safe and comfortable experience with thorough follow-up care for peace of mind.

Book Your Nail Surgery Appointment

If you’re experiencing persistent nail issues, toenail surgery can provide long-term relief and prevent future complications. Our experienced podiatrists are here to answer your questions and guide you through the process with compassion and care.

 

Teal London, 25 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9EX