Liam Carter
Ingrown toenails are usually treatable without surgery, but in severe cases, a surgical procedure may be required to remove the ingrown toenail. The type of surgery depends on the severity and cause of the ingrown toenail. A partial toenail removal will allow the nail to grow back in three to four months, while a total toenail removal can take up to 18 months for the nail to regrow. However, there is a chance that the nail may not grow back or may grow back misshapen.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Surgery type | Wedge resection, toenail removal, surgery on the tip of the toe, matrixectomy, corrective nail clipping, splinting, nail avulsion surgery |
| Surgery details | A doctor removes a portion or the entire toenail, reshapes the soft tissue at the tip of the toe, or removes the nail bed. |
| Anaesthesia | Local anaesthesia is used to numb the toe. |
| Post-surgery care | Soak the foot in warm water or Epsom salts, take NSAIDs, apply antibiotic ointment, keep the wound bandaged and clean, wear properly-fitted shoes |
| Toenail regrowth | The toenail may grow back in 3-4 months or up to 18 months, but it may be misshapen or deformed. |
| Complications | Minor complications are common, but serious complications are rare. Possible complications include toenail deformity, subsequent ingrown toenails, infection, irritation, and anaesthesia complications. |
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What You'll Learn
Ingrown toenail surgery procedures
Ingrown toenails occur when the toenail grows into the soft tissues of the toe. This can be caused by ill-fitting footwear, injury to the toe or nail, or improper nail clipping. Minor cases may heal on their own or with simple at-home treatments, but severe cases may require surgery.
Before surgery, patients should remove nail varnish and bring suitable footwear to wear home, such as open-toed shoes or sandals. During the procedure, the patient is given a local anaesthetic to numb the toe. A tourniquet may also be applied to the base of the toe to prevent bleeding.
There are several different procedures that can be used to treat ingrown toenails:
- Wedge resection: The doctor removes a portion of the toenail to prevent it from growing into the skin. This procedure is also called a partial nail avulsion. The nail should grow back within three to four months.
- Toenail removal: The doctor removes the entire toenail. It can take up to 18 months for the nail to regrow, and it may grow back misshapen or deformed, increasing the risk of future ingrown toenails.
- Surgery on the tip of the toe: If other surgeries are unsuitable or have failed, the doctor may remove and reshape the soft tissue at the tip of the toe.
- Matrixectomy: If wedge resection or toenail removal fail, the nail bed may need to be removed along with the nail. The nail will not regrow after a matrixectomy.
Following surgery, the patient will be given post-operative care instructions, which may include keeping the wound clean and dry, soaking the foot in warm water or Epsom salts, taking painkillers or antibiotics, and avoiding strenuous activity. Recovery time is usually anywhere from two weeks to two months, depending on the extent of the procedure.
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Post-surgery care
Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor procedure that can be performed in a podiatrist's office under local anaesthesia. Depending on the severity and cause of the ingrown toenail, your doctor may recommend one of the following common toenail surgeries:
- Wedge resection: This procedure involves removing a portion of the toenail to prevent it from growing into the skin. The nail usually grows back within three to four months.
- Toenail removal: This surgery involves removing the entire toenail. It can take up to 18 months for the nail to regrow fully.
- Matrixectomy: If wedge resection or toenail removal fail, a matrixectomy may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the nail bed along with the nail. The nail will not regrow after this surgery.
Regardless of the type of surgery performed, the following general post-surgery care guidelines can help speed up recovery:
- Soak your foot in warm water or Epsom salts daily: This helps to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications help manage pain and swelling.
- Apply antibiotic ointment: If there is an infection, apply antibiotic ointment twice daily or as recommended by your doctor.
- Keep the wound bandaged and clean: It is important to keep the wound bandaged and clean until it heals, which usually takes several weeks. Change the dressing regularly and monitor for signs of infection.
- Avoid strenuous activity: Refrain from strenuous activity that puts pressure on the nail until your doctor advises it is safe to resume.
- Wear properly fitted shoes: Choose comfortable shoes that are not too tight to avoid putting pressure on the toe.
- Follow-up with your podiatrist: Schedule follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol during the healing process.
It is important to note that while the nail usually grows back after wedge resection and toenail removal, there is a possibility of deformity or misshapen nail growth. In some cases, the nail may not regrow to its previous length or may require multiple surgeries.
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Potential complications
Ingrown toenail surgery is generally safe and effective. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of. Here are some potential complications that can occur following ingrown toenail surgery:
Infection
Infection is one of the most common complications after ingrown toenail surgery. Surgery creates an open wound, making it easier for bacteria and other pathogens to enter the body. In some cases, the infection may be present before the procedure, especially if the ingrown toenail was already infected. It is important to monitor the surgical site for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge, and seek medical attention if necessary. Oral antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat infections.
Anaesthesia Complications
There is a risk of complications associated with the use of anaesthesia during surgery. These complications may include difficulty waking up from general anaesthesia or adverse reactions to local anaesthesia, such as allergic reactions. Patients with a history of anaesthesia complications or weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to experiencing these issues.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the surgical equipment or materials used during the procedure. For example, people with a latex allergy should inform their medical team to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Recurrence
Even after surgery, there is a chance that the ingrown toenail may recur. This complication is estimated to occur in about 8% of cases. In rare instances, multiple recurrent ingrown toenails can develop.
Nail Deformity
Removing the entire toenail increases the likelihood of the nail growing back misshapen or deformed. This deformity can lead to future ingrown toenails. Additionally, the nail may not regrow to its previous length or may take up to 18 months to fully regrow.
Nail Thickening and Discoloration
In some cases, the toenail may regrow thickened and discoloured due to trauma or infection. Scarring along the nail bed can contribute to the thickened appearance.
It is important to note that these complications are relatively uncommon, and ingrown toenail surgery has a high success rate. However, patients should be aware of these potential risks and follow their doctor's instructions for proper post-operative care to minimize the chances of complications.
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Nail regrowth timeline
Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor procedure that can be performed in a podiatrist's office or clinic. The type of surgery performed depends on the severity and cause of the ingrown toenail.
Wedge resection
This procedure involves removing a portion of the toenail to prevent it from growing into the skin. The nail typically regrows within three to four months.
Toenail removal
This surgery involves removing the entire toenail. It can take up to 18 months for the nail to regrow fully, and the nail may grow back misshapen or deformed, increasing the risk of future ingrown toenails.
Matrixectomy
This procedure is performed if toenail removal or wedge resection fails. It involves removing the nail bed in addition to the nail. The nail will not regrow after a matrixectomy.
Surgery on the tip of the toe
If other surgeries are unsuitable or have failed, a doctor may remove and reshape the soft tissue at the tip of the toe.
It's important to note that minor complications are common following nail surgery, and there is a possibility of the nail growing back misshapen or deformed, or not regrowing at all. To promote healing and reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to soak the foot in warm water or Epsom salts, take anti-inflammatory medication, apply antibiotic ointment, and keep the wound bandaged and clean.
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Preventing ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common condition, usually affecting the big toe, where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. This can cause pain, inflammation, swelling, and sometimes infection. While it is a treatable condition, it can be prevented through good foot care and hygiene. Here are some ways to prevent ingrown toenails:
Proper Toenail Trimming
One of the most important ways to prevent ingrown toenails is to trim your toenails properly. Toenails should be cut straight across, avoiding any curvature that matches the shape of the toe. Cutting the nails too short or rounding the corners can cause the nail to pierce the surrounding skin and become ingrown. It is also important to use toenail clippers and not tear or rip the nails. Additionally, ensure that you clean your nail trimmer before use and trim your nails regularly to maintain a moderate length.
Appropriate Footwear
Wearing properly fitted shoes is crucial in preventing ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too tight or place too much pressure on the toes can cause the nail to grow into the surrounding tissue. Choose shoes that fit correctly and provide ample room for your toes, avoiding styles that pinch or constrict the toes.
Foot Soaking and Hygiene
Soaking your feet in warm water or applying a warm, moist compress can help soften the nails and surrounding skin. This makes it easier to trim the nails and reduces the risk of ingrown toenails. After soaking, dry your feet and toes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to bacterial growth. Maintaining good foot hygiene is essential for preventing infections and maintaining healthy toenails.
Address Underlying Conditions
Certain underlying conditions, such as diabetes, nerve damage, or poor circulation, can increase the risk of ingrown toenails and their associated complications. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to follow the foot care recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Regular foot care exams may be necessary to monitor your foot health and prevent issues, including ingrown toenails.
Avoid Repetitive Trauma
Trauma or injury to the toes or nails can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Avoid activities that cause repetitive trauma to the sides of your nails. This includes wearing proper footwear that protects your toes from injury and avoiding habits that may damage the nails.
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails and maintain healthy and comfortable feet. Good foot care practices are essential to keeping your toes happy and pain-free!
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of surgery. For partial toenail removal, the nail may grow back in three to four months. For total toenail removal, regrowth can take up to 18 months.
During surgery, a chemical called phenol is applied to the nail bed to stop the nail from growing back. In rare cases, the nail may grow back, and surgery can be performed again.
The nail that grows back may be thinner and misshapen or deformed, which can increase the risk of future ingrown toenails.
