What is Toenail Surgery?

Ingrown toenail surgery is a minor procedure used to treat a toenail that repeatedly grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, inflammation, infection, or recurrent discomfort. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the toe completely.

A narrow section of the affected nail edge is removed (partial nail avulsion) or the whole nail (total nail avulsion) and a chemical called phenol is applied to the nail matrix to prevent that portion of the nail from regrowing.

The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Following surgery, the toe is dressed and patients are advised to keep the dressing dry until the redress appointment. Mild discomfort and drainage from the nail site are normal during the healing process. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days, although complete healing may take 4–8 weeks.

The procedure has a high success rate and significantly reduces the risk of recurrence compared with conservative treatments.