Ingrown Toenails
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail is where the sides of the toenail are curved and grow into the skin which can cause pain and discomfort.
If an ingrown toenail progresses it can penetrate the skin which can eventually lead to an infection.
Symptoms
- Pain when pressure is applied to the toe
- Redness
- Warmth
- Swelling
- Pus
Treatment
We treat ingrown toenails conservatively and surgically depending on the severity.
Non-Operational
Conservative management may simply involve carefully removing the toenail using special instrumentation. There is usually little to no pain.
In certain situations we can also use a nail correction system called Onyfix. The product is applied to the toenail and remains on the nail for a period of time. As the nail grows out the shape of the nail is corrected. The product will remain on the toenail for up to 3 months and is painless.
Operational
Surgery is typically recommended in cases where the problem is severe or when conservative treatment is deemed ineffective. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia so you will feel no pain. Post-operative pain is either absent or minor.
Nail surgery is a specialty procedure which may involve removing part or all of the toenail. This procedure is usually recommended in acutely severe or chronic cases where conservative treatment has been unsuccessful or is no longer feasible.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.