Nail Surgery: Safe, Effective Relief for Ingrown and Damaged Toenails
Overview
Nail surgery is a highly effective podiatric procedure used to treat persistent or severe nail conditions, most commonly ingrown toenails. At Happy Feet Podiatry in The Junction, NSW, we provide minor nail surgery under sterile conditions, offering long-lasting relief from pain and infection. This service is ideal for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments or experience recurrent nail problems.
What is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery involves the partial or total removal of a toenail, typically under local anaesthetic. The most common form is a Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA), where only the ingrown or problematic section of the nail is removed. A chemical called phenol is often used to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail edge, reducing the likelihood of recurrence. This is a minor surgical procedure performed in the podiatry clinic and requires minimal downtime.
Our experienced podiatrists at Happy Feet Podiatry perform this minor surgical procedure in our clinic using sterile techniques to ensure your comfort and safety. It is typically used to treat painful or infected ingrown toenails that have not responded to non-surgical care.
When is Nail Surgery Necessary?
- You experience chronic or severe ingrown toenails
- There is recurrent infection or abscess formation
- Conservative treatments such as nail bracing, trimming or footwear changes have failed
- A suspected nail pathology requires biopsy or removal
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, contact Happy Feet Podiatry for a thorough assessment.
Stages of Conditions Leading to Nail Surgery
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Early Stage: Mild discomfort and redness around the nail
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Different Types of Nail Surgery
- Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA): Removal of a portion of the nail, often combined with phenolisation to prevent regrowth. Suitable for ingrown toenails affecting one side of the nail.
- Total Nail Avulsion (TNA): Complete removal of the nail. Used for severe or recurrent infections and deformities. May be temporary or permanent, depending on the condition.
- Matrixectomy: Destruction or removal of the nail matrix to prevent regrowth. Can be chemical (using phenol) or surgical. Indicated for chronic or recurrent nail issues.
Benefits of Getting Nail Surgery
- Permanent relief from painful ingrown toenails
- Quick recovery, usually within 2–4 weeks
- Minimally invasive, performed under local anaesthetic
- Reduces recurrence with phenolisation
- Improves foot health, hygiene and comfort
- Prevents infection, particularly important for people with diabetes
Our Approach to Providing Nail Surgery
At Happy Feet Podiatry, our podiatrists perform nail surgery with a focus on:
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Use of sterile technique and local anaesthesia for comfort
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Ongoing follow-up to monitor nail regrowth (if applicable) and foot health
How Many Treatments or Visits Are Required?
- Initial Consultation: Assessment and discussion of treatment options.
- Surgical Procedure: Typically completed in one visit.
- Follow-Up Visits: Usually 1-2 appointments to monitor healing and remove dressings.
The exact number of visits may vary based on individual healing rates and the complexity of the condition.
How Much Does Nail Surgery Cost?
- Type of Surgery: Partial vs. total nail avulsion.
- Complexity: Presence of infection or need for additional procedures.
- Aftercare Requirements: Number of follow-up visits and dressings.
We provide a detailed cost estimate during the initial consultation.
Is Nail Surgery Covered by Health Insurance?
- Private health insurance with podiatry extras cover
- Medicare EPC/CDM plans, if you have a chronic condition and are referred by your GP (partial rebate for consultation only)
Please check with your individual fund or GP for eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the procedure painful?
How long does it take to heal?
Healing times vary but generally range from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the procedure and individual factors.
Can the nail grow back after surgery?
If the nail matrix is destroyed (matrixectomy), regrowth is unlikely. Otherwise, the nail may regrow over several months.
Are there risks associated with nail surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, bleeding, and delayed healing. Adhering to aftercare instructions minimizes these risks.
Will I need time off work or sports?
Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but it’s advisable to avoid strenuous activities until healing progresses.
Can nail surgery be performed on children?
Related Articles
Ingrown Toenail Surgery Recovery: Your Complete Week-by-Week Guide
Recovering from ingrown toenail surgery doesn’t have to be stressful. Our comprehensive week-by-week guide walks you through what’s normal at each stage, warning signs to watch for, and exactly when you can get back into your regular shoes and activities.
Surgical Prep Guide
Skipping toenail polish before surgery aids safety by allowing accurate monitoring of circulation and oxygen levels, integral to anesthesia guidelines and patient care.
References
1. Healthdirect Australia. (2023). Ingrown toenail. Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au
2. Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. (2024). Ulcers and Wound Care: Toenail Conditions.
3. Australian Podiatry Association. (2023). Nail Surgery Guidelines.
4. RACGP. (2023). Ingrown toenails: Management and referral pathways.
5. Journal of Foot and Ankle Research. (2022). Outcomes of chemical matrixectomy in recurrent ingrown toenails.
6. La Trobe University. (2021). Podiatric surgical procedures in general practice.
7. Australian Journal of General Practice. (2022). Managing nail conditions in primary care.
8. University of Western Australia. (2021). Minor surgical procedures in podiatry.
9. Podiatry Board of Australia. (2023). Scope of practice and standards.
10. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. (2021). Surgical vs non-surgical management of ingrown toenails.
11. NSW Health. (2022). Minor surgery safety protocols in outpatient settings.
12. Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. (2023). Clinical care standards for minor procedures.
13. Australian Diabetes Society. (2023). Foot care guidelines for people with diabetes.
14. Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). (2023). Infection prevention in podiatry.
15. Hunter New England Health. (2023). Wound care and surgical referrals.