Living with a painful or recurring ingrown toenail can affect much more than your feet. Ongoing pain, swelling and inflammation can make walking, wearing shoes, exercising and everyday activities uncomfortable.
At Foot Works Podiatry in Bangor, we provide nail surgery assessment and treatment for patients experiencing painful, recurring or problematic toenails.
For some patients, routine treatment provides relief but the problem continues to return. In these cases, nail surgery may offer a longer-term solution by removing the problematic section of nail and, where appropriate, helping to prevent it from growing back.
Nail Surgery at Foot Works Podiatry
Our team of HCPC-registered podiatrists based in Bangor, County Down, with over 12 years of experience across both the NHS and private practice offer this service.
We have a particular clinical focus on nail surgery and the treatment of painful, problematic and recurring nail conditions, helping patients who have struggled with persistent nail pain, repeated inflammation, infection or ingrown toenails that continue to return.
We understand that the thought of nail surgery can feel daunting. Her approach combines clinical experience with clear communication, personalised care and a strong emphasis on making patients feel comfortable, informed and reassured throughout their treatment journey.
Recurring ingrown toenail or ongoing nail pain?
Book an Initial Assessment with with one of our team at Foot Works Podiatry in Bangor.
What Is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery is a minor procedure carried out under local anaesthetic to remove part of, or in some cases all of, a problematic toenail.
It is commonly considered for persistent or recurring ingrown toenails, particularly when the nail repeatedly grows into the surrounding skin and causes pain, inflammation or infection.
Where appropriate, a chemical called phenol may be applied to the nail matrix, the area responsible for nail growth, to help prevent the treated section of nail from growing back.
When only part of the nail is removed, this is commonly referred to as a partial nail avulsion.
The aim of treatment is to relieve the painful nail problem and reduce the likelihood of the same issue returning.
When Might Nail Surgery Be Recommended?
Nail surgery may be considered for patients experiencing:
Recurring ingrown toenails
Painful or excessively curved nails
Persistent inflammation around the nail
Repeated nail-related infections
Nail edges causing ongoing discomfort
Certain thickened or deformed nails that are causing pressure or pain
Not every nail problem requires surgery.
During your assessment, we will examine the nail, discuss your symptoms and medical history and explain whether conservative treatment or nail surgery is likely to be the most appropriate option for you.
What Are the Benefits of Nail Surgery?
Longer-Term Relief From Recurring Ingrown Toenails
If a toenail repeatedly grows into the surrounding skin, routine treatment may provide relief but the problem can sometimes return as the nail grows.
Nail surgery removes the problematic section of nail and, when phenol is used, aims to prevent that section from growing back.
For suitable patients, this can significantly reduce the likelihood of the same painful problem recurring.
Relief From Persistent Pain
Ingrown toenails can cause tenderness, swelling and discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied by footwear.
Removing the offending section of nail allows the surrounding tissue to heal and can relieve the source of ongoing irritation.
Reduced Recurring Inflammation
When a nail repeatedly penetrates the surrounding skin, it can create an ongoing cycle of irritation and inflammation.
Removing the problematic section can help stop this cycle from continuing.
If there are signs of infection, your podiatrist will assess the toe and discuss the most appropriate course of treatment before proceeding.
Preserving as Much of the Nail as Possible
In many cases, only the affected side of the nail needs to be removed.
The remaining nail is left in place, resulting in a narrower nail rather than complete removal of the toenail.
For many patients, this provides a practical balance between treating the problem and preserving the appearance of the nail.
Returning to Everyday Activities
Persistent nail pain can interfere with walking, work, exercise and wearing normal footwear.
Once the toe has healed, many patients are able to return to their usual activities without the recurring discomfort previously caused by the ingrown nail.
Healing varies from person to person, and following the recommended aftercare is an important part of recovery.
What Happens During Nail Surgery?
At Foot Works Podiatry, every nail surgery procedure begins with a careful assessment at an Initial Assessment.
Initial Assessment
Louise or Sarah will examine the affected nail, discuss your symptoms and review your relevant medical history to determine whether surgery is suitable for you.
The procedure, expected healing process, potential benefits and risks will be explained before treatment so that you can make an informed decision.
Local Anaesthetic
The affected toe is numbed using local anaesthetic.
The procedure is only started once the toe has been checked to ensure that it is adequately numb.
Removal of the Problematic Nail
The affected section of nail is carefully removed while preserving the remaining nail where possible.
Phenolisation
Where appropriate, phenol is applied to the nail matrix to help prevent the treated section of nail from growing back.
Dressing and Aftercare
A sterile dressing is applied following the procedure.
You will receive clear instructions on how to care for the toe while it heals, and follow-up appointments will be arranged where appropriate.
Is Nail Surgery Painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic.
Once the toe is adequately numb, the aim is to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. You may still be aware of pressure or movement during treatment.
Some tenderness or discomfort can occur as the anaesthetic wears off, and we will explain what to expect and how to look after your toe following the procedure.
How Long Does Nail Surgery Take to Heal?
Healing time varies depending on the procedure performed, your general health and your individual healing response.
Following partial nail surgery with phenol, healing commonly takes several weeks and may take approximately 4 to 12 weeks.
Some mild discharge from the treated area can occur during the healing process.
You will be given detailed aftercare advice and guidance on returning to your usual activities.
Why Choose Foot Works Podiatry for Nail Surgery?
At Foot Works Podiatry, nail surgery is not simply about treating the nail.
We understand that recurring nail problems can be painful, frustrating and sometimes embarrassing, especially when previous treatment has only provided temporary relief.
Our approach includes:
Care from an HCPC-registered podiatrist
Over 12 years of podiatry experience
NHS and private-practice experience
Clear explanation of your treatment options
Nail surgery under local anaesthetic
Personalised aftercare advice
Ongoing support throughout recovery
A calm and reassuring approach to treatment
We are committed to helping patients understand their options and feel confident about the treatment they receive.
Nail Surgery in Bangor
Foot Works Podiatry provides nail surgery assessment and treatment from our clinic in Bangor, County Down.
We welcome patients from Bangor and surrounding areas including Holywood, Newtownards, Donaghadee, Comber and across North Down, as well as patients travelling from elsewhere in Northern Ireland.
Nail Surgery Fees
Nail surgery fees are discussed following assessment and will depend on the treatment required.
Your recommended treatment plan and associated costs will be explained before proceeding.
Book a Nail Surgery Assessment
If you are experiencing a recurring ingrown toenail, persistent nail pain, repeated inflammation or a nail problem that keeps returning despite treatment, you do not have to simply keep managing the same problem.
An assessment with any of our podiatrists to help determine whether nail surgery may provide a suitable longer-term solution.
Book your nail surgery assessment with Foot Works Podiatry in Bangor.
Call: 07725 885818
Or use our online booking system to arrange an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can nail surgery permanently fix an ingrown toenail?
Nail surgery with phenolisation is designed to prevent the treated section of nail from growing back, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence.
Occasionally, a small section of nail can regrow and further treatment may be required.
Will I lose my entire toenail?
Sometimes. It depends on what the presentation of the nail looks like. This will be discussed thoroughly with you.
Most ingrown toenail procedures involve removing only the problematic section of nail while preserving the remainder.
Can I walk after nail surgery?
Most patients can walk following the procedure, although resting and elevating the foot for the remainder of the day is generally recommended.
Roomy footwear may also be needed to accommodate the dressing.
Do I need a GP referral?
No GP referral is routinely required for a private podiatry assessment.
You can contact Foot Works directly or book an appointment online.
Is nail surgery suitable for everyone?
No.
Your medical history, circulation, healing capacity, medication and the condition of your toe will all be considered before nail surgery is recommended.
What if my ingrown toenail keeps coming back?
If an ingrown toenail repeatedly returns despite routine treatment, nail surgery may be worth considering.
An assessment with Sarah can help determine whether nail surgery is an appropriate option for you.
Foot Works Podiatry, Bangor, County Down
Last reviewed: October 2026