Ingrown toenail

The big toe is often affected, either on one or both sides. The nail curls and pierces the skin, which becomes red, swollen and tender.

Other possible symptoms include:

pain if pressure is placed on the toe inflammation of the skin at the end of the toe a build-up of fluid (oedema) in the area surrounding the toe an overgrowth of skin around the affected toe (hypertrophy) bleeding white or yellow pus coming from the affected area


Other possible symptoms include:

pain if pressure is placed on the toe inflammation of the skin at the end of the toe a build-up of fluid (oedema) in the area surrounding the toe an overgrowth of skin around the affected toe (hypertrophy) bleeding white or yellow pus coming from the affected area


pain if pressure is placed on the toe inflammation of the skin at the end of the toe a build-up of fluid (oedema) in the area surrounding the toe an overgrowth of skin around the affected toe (hypertrophy) bleeding white or yellow pus coming from the affected area

Symptoms

pain if pressure is placed on the toe inflammation of the skin at the end of the toe a build-up of fluid (oedema) in the area surrounding the toe an overgrowth of skin around the affected toe (hypertrophy) bleeding white or yellow pus coming from the affected area


Partial nail avulsion

Partial nail avulsion removes part of your toenail and is the most commonly used operation for treating ingrown toenails. It’s about 98% effective.

A local anaesthetic is used to numb your toe and the edges of your toenail are cut away. A chemical called phenol is applied to the affected area to prevent the nail growing back and becoming ingrown in the future.

A course of antibiotics may be prescribed if your nail is infected, and any pus will be drained away.

Total nail avulsion

Total nail avulsion completely removes your toenail. This may be necessary if your nail is thick and pressing into the skin surrounding your toe. After your toenail has been removed, you’ll have an indentation where your nail used to be. However, it’s perfectly safe for you not to have a toenail.

After surgery

After toenail surgery, your toe will be wrapped in a sterile bandage. This will help stem any bleeding and prevent infection. Rest your foot and keep it raised for 1 to 2 days after the operation.

To help reduce the pain, you may need to take a painkiller, such as paracetamol, and wear soft or open-toed shoes for the first few days after surgery.