Whether it is worth it to get ingrown toenail surgery depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and the individual’s preference. Severely ingrown toenails may be very painful and may lead to infection and other complications if not treated.
Ingrown toenail surgery helps to reduce the pain and risk of infection, as it removes a part of the toenail that is causing the issue. In some cases, a simple trimming of the nail may be sufficient, but for more extreme cases, surgical removal of the nail is sometimes recommended.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks and costs associated with it. However, it is important to note that in some cases, surgery may be the only way to correct the problem and that the sooner treatment is sought, the better the outcome will be.
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How painful is ingrown nail surgery?
Ingrown nail surgery can be painful, however, the amount of pain depends upon the method and technique used. The primary method of ingrown nail surgery is called ‘partial nail avulsion with underlying matrixectomy’.
It is a procedure which involves an anesthetic used to numb the toe, followed by the surgical removal of the ingrown portion of the nail, and then the removal of underlying tissue causing the nail to become ingrown.
During the procedure, there may be some pain, however, the area is usually numbed with local anesthetic, reducing the amount of pain felt.
Another method of ingrown nail surgery is called ‘lateral nail avulsion’. This method is more invasive than the partial nail avulsion, as this technique involves the removal of the entire nail. Again, an anesthetic is used to reduce any pain, although the procedure itself may be more painful since the whole nail is being removed.
In both of these methods, after the procedure has been completed, there may be some swelling, soreness, and mild discomfort in the affected area. Post-operative pain can be managed with prescription or over the counter pain medication, so in most cases, the amount of pain felt is quite minimal.
Do ingrown toenails grow back after surgery?
Yes, an ingrown toenail can grow back after surgery. Depending on how severe the ingrown toenail is, there are a few different techniques your doctor may use to remove the ingrown toenail. The most common technique for mild-to-moderate cases is called a matrixectomy.
During this procedure, your doctor will partially or completely remove the side portion of your toenail that’s causing the problem and the healthy part of your toenail will grow back. In more severe cases, your doctor may need to remove a portion of the nail bed and to permanently remove the nail.
While it’s possible for the nail to grow back in these cases, it often takes many months and may not look the same as it did before. To ensure a successful, healthy recovery and to reduce the chances of the nail returning, your doctor may ask you to follow recommendations for post-surgery care, such as wearing special shoes and avoiding certain activities.
How long does it take for a removed ingrown toenail to grow back?
It typically takes between six and twelve months for a removed ingrown toenail to grow back, although this can depend on the individual. Healing times can vary depending on the age and health of the person, the size of the toe and the severity of the ingrown toenail.
Additionally, the post-surgery care and the precautions taken will have an effect on the time taken to regrow the toenail. It is important to follow the post-surgery instructions carefully which may include soaking the toe, keeping it clean, avoiding activities that can cause the toe to swell and watching for infection.
Additionally, it is a good idea to wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes during the healing period. With proper care and attention to post-surgery instructions, an ingrown toenail will regrow in six to twelve months.
How long does it take for your toenail to grow back after ingrown toenail surgery?
It typically takes between 6-9 months for your toenail to fully grow back after ingrown toenail surgery. Depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail and the individual, the process can take anywhere from 4-12 months.
During this time, new nail growth can occur slowly or quickly and depending on the type of treatment used, may require follow-up visits to ensure the nail growth is healing correctly. Additionally, if a total or partial nail avulsion was performed, a wrap may need to be worn over the affected toe during healing.
Typically, the nail growth and re-formation will be complete within 9-12 weeks after the procedure.
Should you stay off your feet after toenail removal?
Yes, it is important to stay off your feet and rest after toenail removal. This is because it allows your body to focus on healing and prevents your toes from further injury. You should also keep your feet clean by washing them regularly, and keep your bandages dry and free from dirt and debris.
In addition, you should try to avoid activities that could cause your toenails to become irritated, such as walking barefoot, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or using harsh chemicals on your feet. It’s also important to follow your doctor’s instructions and ask questions if you have any concerns.
Finally, always seek medical attention if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, pus, or an unpleasant odor.
Will I need time off work after toenail removal?
It depends on the type of toenail removal procedure you are having. Simple nail removal usually does not require you to take time off work, but a more complicated procedure may. If you have a major surgical procedure such as partial or total nail removal, it is recommended that you take time off work.
Depending on the type of toenail removal you are having, you may need to take a few days to a week off work. Your doctor will advise you on the amount of time you should take off work. It is important to follow the instructions of your physician regarding taking time off work to ensure your quick recovery.
How long should I keep my toe covered after ingrown toenail removal?
You should keep your toe covered after ingrown toenail removal for at least 24 to 48 hours. During this time, you should wear a loose-fitting bandage or sock around the affected area so that the area can remain clean and dry.
To help minimize swelling and discomfort, elevate the affected foot when resting. After the first 24 to 48 hours, it’s important to keep the area covered with a clean bandage or sock for 5 to 7 days.
Make sure you change the bandage or sock daily. You can also cover the area with a breathable patch, such as Leukofoam.
If the area is still uncomfortable or painful after at least 7 days, or if there is persistent bleeding, pus, or swelling, then you should contact your doctor.
Can urgent care fix ingrown toenail?
Yes, urgent care centers are able to provide medical treatment for ingrown toenails. Depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail, a doctor at an urgent care may be able to provide care in the form of antibiotics and/or a procedure to help relieve the pain and pressure associated with an ingrown toenail.
In more severe cases of an ingrown toenail, the doctor may need to perform a more involved procedure such as a partial nail removal or complete removal of the nail. In many cases, the doctor may refer a patient to a podiatrist for specialized treatment of the ingrown toenail.
If you have an ingrown toenail, it is important to seek medical attention at an urgent care or your primary care provider as soon as possible. Ignoring the symptom may lead to further infections or other complications.
In addition, warm and moist environments, such as bathing or swimming, can aggravate the ingrown toenail and should be avoided.
When is it time to go to the doctor for an ingrown toenail?
It is best to go to the doctor as soon as possible if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail. You may be experiencing pain or soreness around or on the side of your toenail, an infection or pus, redness, swelling, or even drainage from the affected area.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is necessary to get treatment from a medical professional right away. Additionally, it is important to make an appointment if you have diabetes, as this could delay healing and possibly lead to a more serious infection.
The doctor will likely provide treatments to help relieve your symptoms while they figure out the best course of action to fully resolve the issue. Depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail, they might decide to attempt to remove the existing toenail and then perform a partial or complete removal of the matrix (the area where the toenail grows from).
The doctor can also prescribe antibiotics to help fight off any potential infection.
When should you go to the ER for an infected toe?
If your toe is showing signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, tenderness to the touch, and warmth in the area, it is important to see a doctor right away. If the problem persists or worsens, or you are experiencing intense pain, fever, drainage of pus, or other symptoms of infection, you should go to the emergency room (ER).
It is particularly important to go to the ER if you have diabetes, as even a small infection can quickly spread to other areas and cause serious problems if it is not treated immediately. Be sure to tell the doctor about any medication you are taking and any medical history you have, as this may affect their diagnosis and treatment plan.
What do hospitals do with ingrown toenails?
Hospitals typically use various treatments to address ingrown toenails. These treatments typically depend on the severity of the ingrown toenail and can include the following:
• Moisturizing and soaking the affected toe in warm water several times daily in order to help soften the nail.
• Carefully cutting the nail edge to remove any piece of nail that may be pressing against the skin.
• Applying a topical antibiotic to the affected area to help prevent infection.
• Taking oral antibiotics if an infection develops.
• Using special pads or sleeves that can help keep the nail from pressing against the surrounding skin.
• In severe cases, having part of the toenail removed or a more permanent fix such as having a small portion of the affected nail cut out.
• If a hematoma (blood filled swelling) develops, a healthcare provider may need to drain it.
In some cases, having the entire nail removed by a healthcare professional may be necessary to prevent recurrent ingrown toenails. Prevention is key in avoiding ingrown toenails and this can be done by always keeping the feet clean and dry and properly trimming the nails.
