There’s no denying that dealing with an ingrown toenail can be an excruciatingly stressful experience. At Coast Sport, we know the discomfort and frustration this condition can cause — which is why our mission is to help you feel well, move well, and perform well by providing effective ingrown toenail surgery tailored to your needs.
Often both painful and persistent, this foot-based condition occurs when the side of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing inflammation and often infection. But fear not. Ingrown toenails are common and can result from improper nail trimming, trauma, tight-fitting shoes, or genetic factors.
To help you understand the best course of action to take, here’s all you need to know about ingrown toenails and their treatment options.
Ingrown Toenails and Treatment Options
When dealing with ingrown toenails, there are two main types of ingrown toenail surgery your podiatrist or surgeon will use: complete removal of the nail (Total nail avulsion) — which involves taking out the entire toenail followed by application of a chemical to ensure the nail does not regrow. This method is often recommended for severely thick or misshapen nails that are causing discomfort.
Then there’s partial nail avulsion, which only removes a small section of nail (the part of the nail that is ingrown), leaving a relatively normal-looking nail following the procedure. This is minimally invasive and is effective for ingrown toenails.
In addition to these surgical options, there are also non-surgical treatments for less severe ingrown toenails. These can include proper nail trimming techniques, wearing appropriate footwear and regular trips to the podiatrist to help prevent/maintain healthy nails.
If you’re looking for the best treatment option for your own unique needs, our podiatrists will thoroughly assess your condition and recommend the most suitable option for you.
Benefits of Professional Nail Surgery
Professional nail surgery for ingrown toenails offers a few significant benefits. First of all, it provides immediate relief from pain and discomfort, letting you get back to your daily activities without the constant irritation caused by an ingrown toenail.
Secondly, it reduces the risk of recurrent infections, which can be a common issue with untreated ingrown toenails. By removing the ingrown portion of the nail and addressing any underlying issues, we can help prevent future occurrences.
Professional treatment also makes sure that the procedure is done safely and correctly, reducing the risk of complications. Our experienced podiatrists use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure the best outcomes for our patients — meaning you’ll have complete peace of mind from start to end.
What to Expect During and After Your Nail Surgery
During the procedure, your podiatrist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area, ensuring you experience minimal discomfort. The ingrown part of the nail will be carefully removed, and in some cases, the nail bed may be treated to prevent future ingrowth.
The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. After the surgery, recovery takes place at home. It’s important to keep your foot elevated and rest on the day of the procedure. This helps reduce swelling and promotes healing.
Your toe will likely be bandaged, and this dressing should remain on for 24 to 48 hours. Keeping the dressing on helps protect the wound from infection and allows the initial healing process to begin.
Once you remove the initial bandage, you will need to follow a specific wound care routine as advised by your podiatrist. This may include cleaning the area with a saline solution, applying an antibiotic ointment, and covering the wound with a sterile bandage.
Full healing of the nail can take four to twelve weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery and your overall health. During this period, it is essential to monitor the healing progress and report any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, to your podiatrist immediately.
Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure that the nail is healing correctly and to address any concerns you may have.
Recovery Tips for Optimal Healing
Your podiatrist will provide guidance on when you can resume normal activities and how to care for your nails to prevent future ingrown toenails. This may include tips on proper nail trimming techniques, choosing appropriate footwear, and maintaining good foot hygiene. To ensure optimal healing after your ingrown toenail surgery, follow these key tips:
Nutrition and Food Choices
Maintain a high-calorie, high-protein diet to support wound healing. Foods such as meat, eggs, cheese, milk, and soybeans are excellent choices. Proper nutrition provides the necessary building blocks for tissue repair and helps strengthen your immune system, aiding in a faster recovery.
Restricted Weight Bearing
Follow your podiatrist’s instructions regarding weight-bearing. This may be restricted for the first 24 hours, depending on your specific procedure. When resting, keep the operated foot elevated above heart level to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Gradually resume normal activities as advised by your podiatrist, avoiding strenuous activities that may stress the healing area.
Wound Care
Adhere to the wound care instructions provided by your podiatrist to prevent infection and promote healing. This includes cleaning the wound regularly, applying prescribed ointments, and changing dressings as directed. Avoid soaking the foot in water or exposing the wound to dirt and bacteria.
Medication and Pain relief
Use pain relief medications as needed, but avoid NSAIDs like Neurofen/Ibuprofen, as they can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Your podiatrist may prescribe or recommend specific pain relievers to manage discomfort during the initial recovery phase. Take all medications as directed and report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.
Footwear Options
Wear loose-fitting shoes or sneakers for the first two weeks post-surgery to avoid pressure on the healing area. Tight or high-heeled shoes can exacerbate pain and impede the healing process. Opt for comfortable footwear that provides adequate support and allows your toes to move freely.
Activity Levels
Avoid running, jumping, or engaging in strenuous activities for at least two weeks after the surgery. These activities can put unnecessary strain on the healing area and delay recovery. Focus on gentle movements and gradually increase your activity level as advised by your podiatrist.
By following these recovery tips, you can support the healing process and reduce the risk of complications. Proper care and attention during the recovery period are crucial for achieving the best possible outcome from your ingrown toenail surgery.
Meet Our Experienced Podiatrists on the Central Coast
Kane Domenici, an APOD Accredited Sports Podiatrist, brings extensive experience in treating foot and lower limb conditions, including ingrown toenail surgery.
After completing his Bachelor of Podiatry at the University of Newcastle in 2015 and working under a Podiatric Surgeon in Canberra, Kane gained valuable skills in both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Have an ingrown toenail that you want to take care of? Contact us at (02) 4356 2588 to schedule an appointment with Kane.
Helping the Central Coast Feel Well, Move Well and Perform Well!