Surgery for a Toenail That is Growing (adult)

the site will provide information on the best way to treat an encroaching toenail. If you have questions about this procedure, consult your GP or another health care professional.

What is an ingrowing nail?

An ingrowing nail occurs when the toenail develops into the skin surrounding it. The skin may be damaged, leading to discomfort and infection. The most common problem is with the big toe of your foot.

The most frequent cause of an ingrown toenail isn't cutting your toenails correctly or cutting them too short or along the sides of your toenail.

Shoes that don't have enough width to accommodate your feet in their normal place can cause growing toenails.

What are the Advantages of Surgery?

There should be no need to worry about inflammation and pain.

Are There Alternatives to Surgery?

Make sure to cut your nails straight across, but do not create sharp corners. Find shoes that match the form of your feet.

It is possible that your GP or podiatrist (a specialist in treating issues of the feet and lower legs) could be able to remove the skin from the growing toenail or cut off the portion of the toenail that has grown to the skin.

What is the Procedure?

The procedure is typically carried out under local anesthetic.

The procedure typically takes around 10 minutes and could comprise any of the techniques listed below.

Nail avulsion - Remove your toenail completely.Wedge excision: Removal of a portion of your toenail that grows into your skin, and also the tissue that is located in the area where your toenail develops from.Nail-bed ablation -- Taking out part of the entire toenail, and then applying an agent (usually usually phenol) to the tissue from which the toenail develops. Electrocautery, or surgery (using the heat generated by an electric current to eliminate the harmful tissues) is also an option.Zadek's method -- removing the entire toenail, and cutting off the tissue your toenail develops from.

How do I Prepare Myself for the Procedure?

If you smoke, quitting smoking cigarettes now can reduce the chances of developing health issues and can enhance your health over the long term.

Be sure to keep an appropriate weight. There is a greater chance of developing health issues if you are overweight.

What are the Possible Complications?

General complications that can arise from any operation

bleedingan allergic reaction to the material, equipment, or medication

Particular complications associated with this operation

Infection from the area of surgical surgery (wound)an infection in the bone beneathRecurrence of a toenail that is growing

The consequences of this process

Painunattractive scarring on the toe of yours

How Long Will It Take Me to Recover?

After a brief time, you'll be able to return to your home.

The majority of the period of the first couple of days of your recovery with your leg elevated to allow the swelling to settle. Then, you'll typically begin to be a bit more active.

Do not participate in athletics or engage in strenuous exercise for two weeks. Make sure the dressing is dry.

The doctor will let you know when you'll be able to resume regular routine.

Make sure you cut your nails straight across and don't cut sharply.

A toenail that is growing can occur time and time again. There is a chance that you'll need to have another operation.

Summary

Surgery to remove an ingrown toenail will eliminate discomfort and inflammation.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The treatment and operation information on this site is provided under a license granted by Advanced Foot Surgery in Perth, Australia is protected under copyright laws. Except for personal, non-commercial usage you are not allowed to copy, print, or download any information. This information is not intended to replace any advice or guidance that your medical professional will provide you with.