Nail surgery is often needed for ingrown toenails, a common problem that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even infection if left untreated. Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often on the big toe. Some common causes include improper trimming, tight shoes, or injuries. While mild cases may improve with home care, these issues often recur and can become painful enough to require professional nail surgery for permanent relief.
One of the best treatments available for this condition is Nail Surgery. This procedure is performed by a podiatrist; during the visit that podiatrist will remove the area of the toenail that is causing the problem. Nail surgery is a simple, safe, and rapid procedure, and is most often performed while the patient is under local anesthetic so they may not feel anything at all during the treatment. The procedure will not only alleviate pain, but it will also ensure that the procedure will stop the nail from growing back incorrectly, and therefore, will relieve the risk of being reinfected or having problems with the same toe.
Understanding when to choose surgery is important. If you often notice redness, swelling, or discharge around the nail, it may be a sign that home care is no longer enough. Nail surgery provides a permanent solution, allowing you to walk comfortably and return to daily activities without worry. In this blog, we will discuss the key areas that will help you understand this better:
Ingrown toenails usually occur when the side of the nail begins to grow into the skin rather than outward. The big toe is commonly affected, and symptoms may include pain, swelling, and redness. Most people suffer from this issue at least once; some even manage to suffer from it on a more regular basis due to various scenarios.
One of the main reasons for ingrown toenails is cutting nails improperly. If nails are cut too short, or if the nails are trimmed with a rounded edge, the nail is more likely to grow into the skin. Tight or narrow shoes also increase the odds of suffering from ingrown toenails, as they force the toe or foot together and produce additional pressure on the toenails. Over time, this pressure creates pain and can produce an infection.
Toe injuries and the natural shape of nails are also common causes. People with naturally curved or thick nails are more likely to struggle with ingrown toenails. Although mild cases may heal with simple care, recurring issues often need medical treatment for long-term relief.
Recognizing the signs of an ingrown toenail is very important. At first, you may notice redness and soreness around the toe. If left untreated, the condition may get worse, making it harder to walk or wear shoes comfortably.
When infections develop, Nail Surgery may become the best treatment option. Signs of infection include pus, warmth, swelling, and severe pain that does not improve with home care. These symptoms mean the nail has caused deeper irritation and requires professional attention.
Repeated occurrences are another obvious indicator. If you find that your nail continues to grow back into the skin regardless of proper trimming or footwear changes, surgery may produce a permanent solution. Recognizing these early signals can lead to valuable prevention of long-lasting issues and maintaining foot health.
Treating an ingrown toenail is simple and safe. It starts at your consultation when the podiatrist examines the nail and explains everything in detail. This begins the process of reducing any anxiety or fear and making you ready for treatment.
During the procedure, Nail Surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic. This means the toe is numb, so you will not feel pain. The podiatrist then removes the section of the nail causing the problem. In many cases, a chemical is applied to the nail bed to stop that part of the nail from growing back. This step ensures the problem does not return.
The process typically will take fewer than sixty minutes. Afterward, the toe will be dressed, and you will often be able to walk the same day. With sensible aftercare, for example, resting the toe and keeping it clean, your recovery will be smooth and quick.
You will have many advantages by seeing a professional for ingrown toenail treatment. Perhaps the biggest and best benefit is relieving pain. When the offending part of the nail is removed, the pain will often subside quickly so you can walk normally again.
Another benefit involves preventing infected wounds. Ingrown nails can create small wounds that can become easily infected with bacteria. By surgically removing the offending source of irritation, the risk of infection is reduced, which consequently keeps your feet in better health. This effect is important for those with chronic foot disorders.
Finally, nail surgery provides a long-term solution. While home remedies may bring temporary relief, surgery stops the same nail section from growing back incorrectly. This means fewer repeat problems and a much better quality of life.
Healing after surgery is usually smooth and simple. Most people can walk immediately afterward, but rest is recommended for the first few days. Keeping the foot raised can help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
The aftercare instructions are important for recovery. You will likely be advised to keep the dressing clean and dry, replace it as needed, and to wear loose shoes or open-toed footwear. These instructions lower the risk of infection and help the toe heal appropriately.
Usually, recovery will be only a few weeks, and will not linger. Some tenderness is normal, but the painful pressure of the ingrown nail will be gone. After the healing process, your activities can return to normal without any concern for the problem returning.
When ingrown toenails keep coming back, it is best to seek a permanent solution. For numerous individuals, the cure for this problem is Nail Surgery, which treats the ailment at its origin. The procedure is untroubled, unhurried, painless and provides relief from pain and infection, to last for a longer period of time.
Assuming you follow your aftercare properly, the recovery process is untroubled and allows you to easily return to your normal process of daily living without discomfort. Furthermore, surgery reduces the opportunity/possibility of recurring ingrown nails, putting you on the path of walking, exercising, and normal life again.
