Nail surgery is a minor procedure to remove the whole or part of a nail. The surgery will be performed under local anaesthetic (so you can eat normally up until the time of your operation). The nail or part of the nail is simply lifted away from the nail bed. A chemical is applied to the area to destroy the part producing nail cells. A dressing is used to cover the toe. This must be kept clean, dry and not removed until your dressing appointment. After this appointment you will be expected to redress your toes yourself. Sterile dressings and adhesive tape are available from your local chemist.

Preparing for your nail surgery

Please remove all nail varnish from toes before attending the clinic. On the day of surgery wear a loose-fitting shoe, slipper or sandal. Tight footwear is best avoided during the healing process. The initial dressing should be kept on and dry until your first appointment, when this will be changed. The podiatrist will show you how to redress your toe at this appointment. The wound must be kept covered until it is fully healed. This will be when the scab has fallen off and a smooth layer of hard skin forms over the nail bed. It is advisable not to drive until the effects of the anaesthetic have completely worn off, as your insurance may be invalid. You will normally be able to return to work/ school the next day. Some people find 24 hours rest beneficial.

The total appointment time is around 45 minutes to one hour. This includes time for the paperwork to be completed, for the anaesthetic to work and for you to relax. The procedure itself takes about 5-10 minutes.

Complications and Risks

Nail surgery is known to be very safe and effective, however no operation can guarantee success all the time. In rare cases the following may occur:

·Nail Regrowth – every step is taken to prevent the regrowth of the nail, however there is a small percentage (3%), where regrowth occurs.

·Delayed Healing – healing can be slow and can depend on your age, health, how quickly your skin takes to heal and how you look after your toe.

·Infection of the Wound – this may present itself as a red, hot, inflamed, painful toe. A swab may be taken to ensure infection is present and that it is treated with the correct antibiotics.

·Bleeding – bleeding may occur after nail surgery. It is important to keep the foot elevated and rest for the remainder of the day.

·Allergic Reaction – anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. It is a risk, although it is rare and highly unlikely.

'Nail surgery has become an increasing part of our treatment menu. With cuts to social care and NHS services, more people are turning to private podiatry provision. Ingrown nails can cause great discomfort and ongoing pain, and if left untreated, they can lead to infection and other complications. Nail surgery (partial or full) can relieve, even remove, pain for good. You should not be put off by the word surgery ... it is a minor operation done under local anaesthetic.'

Judith Sullivan , Betafeet Podiatry Owner Business Manager

To book an appointment to discuss your ingrown nails and treatment options, please ring our Hemel or Tring clinics.