About toenail surgery

Toenail surgery is a minor procedure, performed under local anesthetic to remove part or all of a toenail in the podiatry clinic. Most often, only the problematic edge is removed (partial nail avulsion), but sometimes the entire nail may be taken out.

 

Sole Wellness Podiatry uses the phenol and alcohol technique for permanent nail removal, which prevents regrowth by causing a chemical burn to the root of the nail (nail matrix). The process—including consultation, anesthesia, nail removal, and dressing—takes about an hour, and you can walk out immediately afterward.

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Toenail surgery is indicated for the following conditions

• Ingrown toenails

• Curved or thickened nails

• Fungal infected nails

• Deformed nail growth

• Corns underneath the nail

• Nail plate growth disruption (such as retronychia)

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Before surgery

Your podiatrist will review your medical history and medications, and perform a neurovascular assessment to determine your suitability for surgery. Ask any questions or voice concerns at this time.

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During surgery

• Your toe will be numbed for about 90 minutes with local anesthetic.

• A tourniquet is used to reduce bleeding.

• The affected nail or section of nail is removed; phenol may be applied to prevent regrowth.

• The area is cleaned, the tourniquet is removed, and the toe is dressed.

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After surgery

• Rest with your foot elevated to reduce swelling and pain.

• Most people report very minimal pain the days following nail surgery. If pain does arise, it is managed effectively with elevation and paracetamol; avoid Aspirin, Voltaren, or Nurofen.

• Redress your toe the following day, and continue to dress it and keep it dry until fully healed.

• Your podiatrist will schedule appointments to review your progress post-operatively.

• Contact your podiatrist if you notice excessive bleeding, redness, pain, odour, or anything unusual.

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Risks

• Local anesthetic is considered safe, but rare side effects can occur.

• There is a small chance (less than 5%) of nail regrowth.

• Infection is possible; proper at-home care is vital to prevent this.

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Preparation checklist

• Bring a support person and/or a distraction to the appointment.

• Eat and drink as normal before the procedure.

• Bring a list of all medications.

• Wear open-toed shoes.

• Set aside one hour for the appointment and plan to rest afterward.

• Arrange a ride home—do not drive after anesthesia.

• Have Betadine and breathable dressings ready for home care. Your podiatrist will send you home with 1 week's worth of dressings and wound care products.

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Booking an appointment for toenail surgery assessment

If you are experiencing ingrown toenails or other conditions listed above that have not improved with conservative treatment, an assessment appointment can help determine whether nail surgery is suitable for you.

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Appointments for pre-operative assessment can be booked online or by contacting the Clare Medical Centre. Appointments for surgery can only be made through your podiatrist or the Clare Medical Centre reception.