Having an ingrown toenail, a condition medically known as onychocryptosis, can be very painful and uncomfortable, with the area often becoming swollen, red, and even infected. Ingrown toenails happen when the side or corner of the nail grows up into the skin surrounding it. The common causes of the problem include wearing too-tight footwear, improper nail trimming, physical injury, and in some cases a genetic disposition.
When the regular home remedies fail and the ingrown toenail becomes severe or chronic, it’s best to consult with your chiropodist who may recommend that you undergo nail surgery a minor procedure performed under local anaesthesia that can correct the problem. The goal of this surgery is to remove the offending portion of the nail as well as prevent future occurrences.
Let’s go over the steps involved to give you an idea of what the surgery entails:
Pre-Surgery Prep – Before the surgery begins the toe must be cleaned and disinfected. Then a local anaesthetic is administered to make the toe feel numb so no pain will be experienced during the procedure.
Nail Removal – There are two different ways that this surgery is usually performed:
- 1. Partial Nail Avulsion – The only part of the nail that is removed is the ingrown section. The underlying nail bed and its matrix may then be treated with a chemical solution like phenol that will prevent regrowth of the offending nail area.
- 2. Total Nail Avulsion – This is only performed for those severe cases that require the entire nail to be removed. This is only necessary if the nail is very badly damaged beyond recovery, or deeply infected.
Post-Surgery Aftercare – The toe is carefully bandaged and the patient is advised to keep it clean and elevated. The pain is usually managed with the use of over-the-counter painkillers. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within just a few days, but it might take a few weeks to achieve a full recovery.
The Benefits Of Surgery – Ingrown toenails can be very painful, surgery offers pain relief and reduces the risk of infection. In very rare cases the nail regrows and becomes infected, requiring surgery once again. A qualified chiropodist can use surgery as a highly effective solution for people suffering from chronic ingrown toenails. They attack the root of the problem so patients can live their lives in comfort.
If you are experiencing persistent nail pain or see signs of infection, you should consult a chiropodist to see if nail surgery is right for you!