Ingrown Toenail Removal

When the edge of a nail digs into the skin of the toe, especially the big toe, every step hurts. If it also gets infected, you get swelling, pus and sometimes a lump of red tissue that bleeds easily. At the clinic we remove the part that's digging in under local anesthesia so the pain eases.

Why does a nail become ingrown?

• Cutting it rounded or too short, leaving the corners under the skin.
• Tight or narrow-toed shoes.
• Stubbing or crushing the toe.
• The natural shape of the nail, which runs more curved in some families.

What can I do at home at first?

If there's only mild discomfort and no pus: soak the foot in warm water several times a day, dry it well and wear open or roomy shoes (AAOS). Don't try to cut out the corner yourself; it usually makes things worse.

When is the procedure needed?

When there's pus, spreading redness, pain that keeps you from walking, or when home care hasn't helped. If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, come in at the first sign: a small infection can get complicated quickly.

What is it like?

1. We numb the toe with local anesthesia.
2. We remove only the strip of nail that's digging in, not the whole nail.
3. We clean the area and treat any infection.
4. We put on a dressing and explain the aftercare.

Most people walk normally within a few days. If the nail keeps growing in again and again, we discuss options to prevent it.

Keeping it from growing in again

Cut nails straight across, without rounding the corners, and leave them level with the tip of the toe. Wear shoes with room for your toes and keep your feet dry.