Nail Surgery
Nail surgery is an effective and commonly performed treatment for painful or problematic toenails. It is most often carried out to treat ingrown toenails, but may also be used for other chronic nail conditions where conservative care has not been successful.
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, which fully numbs the toe so you will not feel pain during treatment. Depending on the condition, either part of the nail (partial nail avulsion) or the entire nail (total nail avulsion) may be removed.
Once the nail has been removed, a chemical called phenol is usually applied to the nail bed. This helps reduce the likelihood that the nail will regrow by treating the nail-forming cells.
Nail surgery is a routine minor procedure carried out in a controlled clinical environment at Hexham Podiatry.
What to Expect
Before the procedure, your podiatrist will assess the nail and discuss the most appropriate treatment option with you. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, ensuring the toe is fully numb.
After the nail is removed, a dressing is applied and full aftercare instructions will be provided. You will be advised on how to care for the toe at home and what to expect during the healing process.
A follow-up appointment may be arranged to monitor healing and change dressings if required.
To ensure accurate assessment and safe treatment, all nail varnish, gels, acrylics, and cosmetic nail coatings must be fully removed prior to your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nail surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the toe completely. You should not feel pain during the procedure itself.
How long does it take?
The procedure usually takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing times vary, but most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days, with full healing typically taking a few weeks.
Will the nail grow back?
In most cases where phenol is used, the treated section of nail is permanently prevented from regrowing.
Do I need to prepare for the procedure?
Yes. All nail varnish, gels, acrylics, and cosmetic nail coatings must be fully removed before your appointment to allow accurate assessment and safe treatment.