An ingrown toenail can cause pain, redness, and inflammation around the nail. If the symptoms cannot be relieved with non-surgical treatment, surgery may be an option. The purpose of the surgery is to remove part or all of the nail so that it no longer grows into the skin and causes recurring symptoms.
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An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin around the nail bed, causing irritation, pain, and, in some cases, inflammation. This condition is most commonly seen on the big toe. Below are some of the most common symptoms that lead patients to schedule a preliminary examination with our foot surgeons at Capio.
If you're unsure whether your symptoms fit the description, you're always welcome to contact us.
Sharp, one-sided pain along the edge of the nail, usually on the big toe. The doctor examines the toe and assesses how far the nail plate has grown into the nail fold and whether surgery is necessary.
The skin around the edge of the nail becomes red, swollen, and warm. This is often the first sign that the nail plate is pressing against the nail fold and that the condition is beginning to develop.
A sore, oozing skin, or pus coming from the edge of the nail indicates that an infection has developed. In this case, you should always see a doctor so that the infection can be treated and the cause eliminated.
The edge of the nail can become so tender that a sock, a bath, or the weight of the comforter at night is enough to trigger pain. This is a typical sign that the nail has grown into the skin and is irritating the surrounding tissue.
If symptoms persist for a long time, granulation tissue may form, and the nail fold may thicken. These are signs of a chronic condition that usually requires surgical treatment.
Some people have a nail that curves significantly downward at the sides. Because of this shape, the edge digs into the nail bed over and over again, which may be a reason to remove the nail edge permanently rather than just temporarily.
Nails that are cut in an arc and too short on the sides, as well as blows and pinching injuries to the toenail, are among the most common causes. The doctor will advise you on how to trim the nail going forward so that it does not grow back into the skin.
If you have tried foot baths, compression bandages, or orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist without lasting results, surgery is recommended. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes, and recurrence occurs in less than 10% of cases.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing irritation, pain, and, in some cases, inflammation. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can make it painful to walk or wear shoes. If the symptoms keep recurring, or if other treatments do not produce the desired results, surgery may be the best solution.
An ingrown toenail can cause redness, swelling, tenderness, and infection around the edge of the nail. Treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are. In some cases, good foot hygiene and relieving pressure on the area may be sufficient, while surgery is recommended for recurring or persistent symptoms. During surgery, part or all of the nail is removed so that it no longer grows into the skin. The goal is to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of the problem recurring. Recurrence occurs in less than 10% of cases.
Before the surgery, you will be examined by a specialist who will assess the ingrown toenail and your symptoms. If the discomfort cannot be relieved by other treatments, surgery may be the right solution. The purpose of the surgery is to prevent the toenail from growing into the skin again and causing pain or infection.
During the surgery, part or all of the nail is removed, depending on the severity of the problem. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about 30 minutes. The surgeon will explain the procedure to you before it begins.
Most patients recover quickly after surgery. It is normal to experience mild pain, swelling, and minor bleeding during the first few days. In less than 10% of cases, a recurrence may occur, making another surgery necessary. With good foot hygiene and the recommended precautions, the risk of infection and recurrence can be reduced.
When might an ingrown toenail require surgery?
Surgery may be necessary if the ingrown toenail causes persistent or recurring pain, redness, swelling, or inflammation. Before the surgery, a specialist will examine the toe and determine whether the symptoms can be alleviated with other treatments.
How is surgery for an ingrown toenail performed?
During the surgery, part or all of the nail is removed, depending on the severity of the problem. The goal is to prevent the edge of the nail from continuing to grow into the skin and causing pain or infection. The surgeon will explain the procedure to you before the surgery.
Does the entire nail need to be removed during the surgery?
It is not always necessary to remove the entire nail. In some cases, it is sufficient to remove the part of the nail that is growing into the skin. The specialist will determine which treatment is best suited to your symptoms.
Does surgery for an ingrown toenail hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. After the procedure, it is normal to experience mild pain, swelling, and minor bleeding during the first few days. The degree of discomfort experienced can vary from person to person.
How long does surgery for an ingrown toenail take?
The procedure itself usually takes about 30 minutes. Before the procedure, the surgeon will go over the details with you so you know what to expect.
Can an ingrown toenail come back after surgery?
Yes, relapses can occur, but according to Capio’s treatment page, this happens in less than 10% of cases. Good foot hygiene and following the recommended post-operative precautions can help reduce the risk of infection and relapse.
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