Nail surgery is a minor procedure for painful, recurring or problematic toenails, most commonly ingrown toenails. At FOOTMED, your podiatrist may remove part of the nail or, where appropriate, the whole nail. Start with a nail assessment to discuss the options.
After removing the affected nail section, the podiatrist may apply phenol to the part of the nail root that produces it. This aims to prevent that section from growing back. With partial removal, the unaffected nail can keep growing and is usually slightly narrower.
We assess ingrown, injured and severely infected nails. Some painful nails can be managed with routine podiatry, footwear advice or other conservative care. Surgery may be considered if the problem keeps returning, has persisted for some time, or is unlikely to settle with conservative treatment.
A local anaesthetic numbs the toe. You may feel pressure or movement. Once it is numb, the podiatrist removes the affected nail section and may apply phenol. A sterile dressing is applied before you leave.
Your toe may stay numb for a few hours and feel sore as the anaesthetic wears off. You’ll receive instructions on dressings, rest, footwear and returning to activity. A phenol-treated wound commonly takes around six to eight weeks to heal, although healing varies. Some redness and clear or pale-yellow fluid can occur during healing. Ask the clinic about any concerns.
We typically arrange three or four follow-up appointments about two weeks apart, adjusted to your healing. We check the wound, review dressings and advise on activity and footwear. MLS laser may be considered alongside usual wound care where appropriate.
Possible risks include discomfort, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, a reaction to phenol or local anaesthetic, nail shape changes, regrowth and changes in sensation. Your podiatrist will discuss the benefits and risks before you decide.
Allow around 60–80 minutes for the surgery appointment.
The anaesthetic injection may briefly sting. The toe is numb during the procedure and may be tender afterwards.
Bring your medication list and, if helpful, someone to support you. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring roomy or open-toed shoes for afterwards. Arrange transport home in line with the clinic’s instructions.
