At TFC Podiatry we offer a range of management techniques for ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails are where the toenail causes irritation to the skin next to the toenail. This irritation leads to swelling and pain. Ingrown toenails are almost always present on the big toes but can happen on the smaller toes less frequently. In the clinic we offer management techniques ranging from a simple trim which is designed to remove the offending edge of the nail. To more of a long term solution with a 95% success rate called a partial nail avulsion.
We can use local anaesthetics if it’s needed and we will keep the treatment as careful and gentle as possible, whilst ensuring we fix your ingrown toenail. We will also go through a plan to prevent this from recurring that is tailored to you.
Usually ingrown toenails are caused by one of the following:
- Presence of a nail spike
- Poor nail cutting technique
- Involuted, or curved toenail structure
- Injury to the toe or toenail
At TFC Podiatry we offer a range of management techniques for ingrown toenails.
Ingrown Toenail Surgery
A partial nail avulsion procedure is a minor surgical procedure that is completed under local anaesthetic which involves permanently removing a part of the toenail. This procedure is done in the clinic, you are awake throughout the procedure which takes about an hour and you can walk out of the clinic room. If you feel like you would benefit from a partial nail avulsion procedure we require you to book an appointment before the procedure to assess your foot health and ensure you are an appropriate candidate for this procedure.
What does ingrown toenail surgery involve?
Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor procedure. It is performed by your trained podiatrist under sterile conditions in order to minimise complications that could lead to an infected toenail. The whole procedure takes approximately one hour.
The procedure:
- Local anaesthetic needles into the toe to facilitate a painless surgery
- Removal of painful portion of nail (partial nail avulsion)
- Cauterisation of nail bed to ensure nail does not regrow
- Dressing of wound
- Post-surgical management (discuss this with your podiatrist)
If left untreated an ingrown toenail will often become more swollen and painful and become infected. Early diagnosis and treatment is key in breaking this cycle and giving you the best chance of speedy recovery. At TFC Podiatry we see patients with ingrown toenails ranging from a little bit uncomfortable to extremely uncomfortable and finding walking difficult.
Take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet by scheduling a consultation with us today. Don’t let an ingrown toenail hold you back any longer; let us help you regain your comfort and mobility. Contact us now and put your feet on the path to recovery with TFC Podiatry.