Ingrown toenail removal
ingrown toenail · ingrown toenail removal · partial nail avulsion · toenail surgery
The doctor removes the edge of the nail that has grown into the skin of the toe. It is usually done with local numbing.
When the nail edge digs into the skin, hurts, turns red, gets infected, or the ingrown nail keeps coming back.
⏱ Duration: the procedure itself usually takes 20 to 40 minutes; healing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Feet. Wash your feet and remove nail polish.
- Shoes. Bring loose, open shoes. You will have a bandage afterward.
- Food. Usually no special prep. You can eat as normal.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Loose shoes or wide slippers
- A spare pair of socks
How it goes
- The doctor examines the toe
- The skin is cleaned with antiseptic
- A numbing injection is given at the base of the toe
- Once the toe is numb, the doctor removes the ingrown edge of the nail
- Sometimes the nail root is treated so that edge does not grow back
- A bandage is put on
What you'll feel
- The numbing injection is unpleasant and stings for a few seconds
- Then the toe goes numb, and you only feel touch
- When the numbing wears off, the toe aches. A painkiller your doctor suggests helps
Afterwards
- On the first day, it is best to rest more and keep your foot raised
- Change the bandage as your doctor says, at home or at the clinic
- Wear loose shoes for a few days
- Keep the bandage dry until your doctor allows
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The toe becomes very red and swollen, or pus comes from the wound
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
- Blood soaks through the bandage and does not stop
Common questions
Will the nail grow back?
Yes, usually the nail grows back, but a little narrower. The edge that was ingrown usually does not grow in again.
Can I go to work the next day?
If you sit at work, usually yes. If you are on your feet all day, ask your doctor about a few days of rest.