Nail surgery is a permanent solution to problematic and ingrowing toenails. Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the toe and a tourniquet will be placed over the toe that is being treated. Part of the problem nail (Partial Nail Avulsion) or the whole nail (Total Nail Avulsion) is removed and liquid phenol is applied to the nail bed to prevent the part of the nail that has been treated from growing again.

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As with any surgical procedure there are some risks. In nail surgery these include the following:

 

• infection following the surgery

• a local reaction to the chemical applied to the nail bed

• regrowth of the removed nail/nail piece

• distortion of the remaining nail following partial removal

• a rare but serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) following the injection of the local anaesthetic.

 

Your medical history and/or medication can put you at increased risk – your podiatrist will be able to advise you individually about this.