Nail Surgery
Nail surgery is a minor procedure used to treat painful or persistent toenail problems, particularly recurrent ingrown toenails.
It may be recommended when an ingrown nail keeps returning, becomes repeatedly inflamed or infected, or when routine nail care has not provided lasting relief. It can also be considered for certain thickened, distorted or very curved nails that are difficult to manage conservatively.
At Bucks Podiatry, nail surgery is carried out by HCPC-registered podiatrists at our clinics in Amersham, Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross.
When might nail surgery be recommended?
Nail surgery may be appropriate if you have:
- A recurrent ingrown toenail
- Persistent pain around the nail
- Repeated inflammation or infection
- A very curved or distorted nail
- A thickened nail that is difficult to manage
- A nail problem that has not improved with routine podiatry or conservative treatment
Your podiatrist will assess the toe first and explain the treatment options available.
What happens during nail surgery?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, which numbs the toe so that you should not feel pain during the surgery itself.
Depending on which part of the nail is causing the problem, your podiatrist may recommend:
Partial nail avulsion
Only the problematic section of the nail is removed. This is commonly used for ingrown toenails where one or both edges of the nail are causing pain.
Total nail avulsion
The whole nail is removed where this is considered the most appropriate option.
In many cases, a chemical called phenol is then applied to the relevant part of the nail matrix. This reduces the likelihood of that section of nail growing back and is intended to provide a long-term solution.
Your podiatrist will explain which procedure is most suitable for you before treatment.
How long does nail surgery take?
The appointment usually takes around 45–60 minutes, including the time needed for the local anaesthetic to take effect and for the toe to be dressed afterwards.
The procedure itself is relatively straightforward, and most patients are able to go home shortly afterwards.
What happens after nail surgery?
You will leave the clinic with the toe dressed and with clear instructions on how to look after it at home.
We generally recommend taking things easy for the rest of the day and keeping the foot elevated where possible.
Many people are able to return to normal footwear and light activity within a few days, although this varies depending on the procedure, your occupation and how the toe is healing.
The nail bed itself can take several weeks to heal fully.
Follow-up care
Follow-up is an important part of nail surgery.
We will advise you on dressing changes and arrange review appointments where needed to check that the toe is healing as expected.
Your podiatrist will also let you know when it is appropriate to return to activities such as sport, prolonged walking and swimming.
Private nail surgery at Bucks Podiatry
Nail surgery is available privately at Bucks Podiatry in Amersham, Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross.
You do not need a GP referral and can contact us directly for an assessment.
Private treatment also gives you the option of arranging assessment and treatment promptly without needing to wait for an NHS referral pathway.
Contact your nearest clinic or book an appointment online to arrange a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with Bucks Podiatry without a GP referral.
Does nail surgery hurt?
The procedure itself is carried out under local anaesthetic, so the toe will be numb during treatment.
Once the anaesthetic wears off, some people experience mild soreness or throbbing for a short period. Your podiatrist will explain appropriate pain relief and aftercare.
How long does the procedure take?
Allow approximately 45–60 minutes for the appointment. This includes assessment, anaesthetic, the procedure itself and dressing the toe afterwards.
Will I need time off work?
This depends mainly on the type of work you do.
People with desk-based jobs can often return relatively quickly, while jobs involving prolonged standing, walking or physical activity may require a little more time.
Your podiatrist will advise you based on your procedure and occupation.
Can I exercise after nail surgery?
We normally recommend resting the foot on the day of surgery.
Light activity can usually be reintroduced gradually, but running, sport and other higher-impact exercise may need to be avoided until the toe has healed sufficiently.
Will the nail grow back?
Where phenol is applied to the nail matrix, the intention is to prevent the treated section of nail from regrowing.
Although recurrence is uncommon, no procedure can guarantee that regrowth will never occur. Your podiatrist will explain what you can expect based on the type of surgery being performed.
How long does healing take?
Initial discomfort usually settles relatively quickly, but complete healing of the nail bed can take several weeks.
Healing times vary depending on the extent of the procedure, your general health and how closely the aftercare advice is followed.