Think you have an Ingrown Toenail?
Book an appointment to have a Registered Podiatrist diagnose your pain and proscribe you a treatment today!
Nail surgery is a long term solution for ingrowing toenails. It is used to hopefully stop the nail causing anymore continuous bother and improve quality of life for the longterm.
Ingrown Toenail Surgery in Bangor
What Is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery is a minor medical procedure used to treat painful or recurring nail conditions, most commonly ingrown toenails. It involves removing part or all of the nail to relieve discomfort and prevent infection.
Why You Might Need Nail Surgery
Nail surgery is recommended when conservative treatments fail. Common reasons include:
Persistent ingrown toenails
Nail infections
Thickened or damaged nails
Trauma to the nail
Recurring pain or swelling
Types of Nail Surgery
Partial Nail Avulsion
Only the problematic section of the nail is removed
Most common procedure
Preserves most of the nail
Total Nail Avulsion
Entire nail is removed
Used for severe or chronic cases
Chemical Nail Surgery (Matrixectomy)
A chemical (often phenol) is applied
Prevents regrowth of the problematic nail section
Reduces recurrence rates
What Happens During the Procedure?
Nail surgery is quick and typically completed in under an hour:
Local anaesthetic is applied (toe becomes numb)
The affected part of the nail is removed
A chemical may be applied to stop regrowth
The toe is cleaned and dressed
Does Nail Surgery Hurt?
The procedure itself is pain-free due to local anaesthetic being used
Mild discomfort may occur after the anaesthetic wears off
Pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication
Recovery After Nail Surgery
Healing Time
Initial healing: 1–2 weeks
Full healing: 4–6 weeks
Aftercare Tips
Keep the area clean and dry
Change dressings as advised
Avoid tight footwear
Rest the foot for the first 24–48 hours
Risks and Complications
Nail surgery is generally safe, but possible risks include:
Infection
Delayed healing
Nail regrowth (if matrix not treated)
Mild bleeding
Benefits of Nail Surgery
Immediate pain relief
Long-term solution for ingrown nails
Low recurrence rate (with chemical treatment)
Quick and simple procedure
Cost of Nail Surgery Includes
Consultation fee
Procedure cost
Follow-up care
When to See a Specialist
Seek professional help if you experience:
Severe pain or swelling
Signs of infection (pus, redness, heat)
Recurrent ingrown nails
Difficulty walking
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does nail surgery take?
Usually 30–60 minutes.
Can I walk after the procedure?
Yes, but limited activity is recommended for the first 1–2 days.
Will the nail grow back?
Yes, unless a chemical procedure is used to stop regrowth.
Is nail surgery permanent?
Partial procedures with chemical treatment can be permanent for that section.