Ingrown toenails can be a real pain—literally! When the edge of your toenail starts growing into the surrounding skin, it can lead to significant discomfort, redness, swelling, and even pus-filled infections. This common problem can make everyday activities, like walking and sleeping, almost unbearable. Many people hide their toes, especially during the summer, out of embarrassment.

For more information about who is prone to developing ingrown toenails and ways to prevent them, visit our webpage.

The Vicious Cycle of Ingrown Toenails

A common scenario for those suffering from ingrown toenails involves a never-ending cycle: the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain. In an attempt to relieve the pressure, people often pick at or dig into the toe to snip off the extra nail, which can lead to infection. After a few weeks of relief, the nail grows back, and the cycle repeats. If this sounds familiar, it’s time to break the cycle. Start by soaking your foot in salty, lukewarm water for 10 minutes daily. This can soften the nail and reduce the chance of infection. However, seeing a podiatrist is crucial for proper treatment.
Should You Consider Surgery for an Ingrown Toenail?

Our experienced podiatrists have treated thousands of ingrown toenails. During your appointment, we will review your medical history, assess the affected nail, and recommend the best course of action. This might involve conservative treatments with regular podiatry appointments or, in some cases, surgery.

Although the term "surgery" might sound intimidating, the procedure is straightforward and performed in one of our clinic rooms. You can bring a friend for support and some music to help you relax. We take our time and explain each step of the process to ensure you are comfortable.

The Surgical Procedure

Anesthesia: We anesthetise your toe with a quick injection, ensuring you won’t feel anything during the procedure.
Cleaning: Your toe is cleaned with iodine.
Removal: We remove the problematic edge of your nail.
Chemical Application: A chemical is applied to kill a small section of the nail-growing cells, preventing that part of the nail from regrowing.
Dressing: Your toe is dressed to keep it clean, and you are ready to go home.
Aftercare Discussion: We will discuss aftercare instructions with you.

Aftercare Advice

Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery. Here’s what you need to do:

Immediate Care: We will send you home with a large dressing on your toe, so bring flip-flops or sliders to wear after the appointment. Leave the dressing on for 24 hours and rest with your foot elevated for the first day.
Daily Care: For the next two weeks, soak your toe in a warm, saltwater bath for 10 minutes daily and then redress the area. We will show you how to do this.
Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, pus, or a foul smell. Contact us immediately if you notice any of these symptoms; you may need antibiotics.
Activity Restrictions: Refrain from playing sports and swimming for a few weeks. Once the wound has healed, you can resume normal activities.

Long-Term Benefits

Ingrown toenail surgery has a 95% success rate. This treatment can free you from the recurring pain and worry of infections, making it a worthwhile investment in your health and well-being.

Don’t let ingrown toenails control your life. Reach out to us so we can relieve your pain and restore your quality of life. With proper treatment and aftercare, you can return to enjoying your favorite activities without the constant worry of discomfort. We look forward to helping you!