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Does My Ingrown Toenail Need Surgery?
Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that happens when the top edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of out and away from the flesh of your toe. Almost everyone experiences one eventually, but for some, ingrown toenails happen regularly and can lead to infections and limited mobility.
If you’re one of those people, you’ve likely considered surgery. But how effective is it, and when should you talk to a podiatrist?
At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, podiatrist Angelo Morreale, DPM, and our team offer minimally invasive ingrown toenail surgery. Keep reading to learn how the procedure works, and whether it could benefit you.
When ingrown toenails are more than just annoying
Most ingrown toenails improve with at-home treatment, such as trimming your nails straight across, taking over-the-counter (OTC) medication to relieve pain, and soaking your feet in warm water to soften your skin and reduce inflammation. However, you may need professional care if you experience symptoms like:
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Drainage or pus
- Spreading redness
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
These symptoms indicate an infection. If you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation to your feet, infection can increase the risk of more serious complications, such as tissue damage or, in rare cases, even amputation.
When to consider surgery for an ingrown toenail
Don’t wait to seek care if ingrown toenails have become a regular problem. Some people have abnormally curved nails that are more likely to grow into the skin, while others have underlying health issues, like poor circulation, that increase the risk of related complications.
After discussing your symptoms and completing a podiatry exam, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you have recurring ingrown nails and experience side effects like severe pain or infection, surgery may be recommended to provide lasting relief.
What to expect from ingrown toenail surgery
Ingrown toenail surgery is a quick, outpatient procedure that typically takes less than an hour. Before the procedure begins, we numb your toe with a local anesthetic. Then, we use surgical tools to carefully remove some or all of your toenail. Once the nail is removed, we cover the area with gauze and a bandage and provide detailed recovery instructions.
Most people can return to their normal routine within 48 hours, though you may need to wear roomier shoes while your toe heals. We may also prescribe antibiotics and pain medication to prevent infection and help you stay comfortable.
After surgery, preventive care is key to avoiding future problems. Keep your toenails trimmed properly, wear comfortable, roomy shoes, and inspect your feet daily for signs of infection.
Request an ingrown toenail surgery consultation today
If recurring ingrown toenails are interfering with your daily life, it may be time to consider surgery. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute, call your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.