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Nail Surgery
Fed up with toenail issues? Struggling with persistent toenail problems? Looking for a lasting solution? Toenail surgery might be the answer you need!
Introduction to Nail Surgery
Toenail surgery is a quick and precise procedure, typically lasting around 90 minutes. Most individuals can return to work, school, and daily activities with minimal disruption.
The aim of toenail surgery is to offer a long-term solution for painful ingrown toenails, excessively thick or unsightly nails, and recurrent nail infections.
At Foot Health Podiatry, we will work with you to determine if toenail surgery is the right choice for addressing any nail conditions causing you persistent discomfort.
Once healed, patients often find they can comfortably wear shoes that previously aggravated their toenails and return to sports and recreational activities that were limited by their nail issues.
If you prefer not to wait months for treatment in a hospital setting, our expert Podiatrists at Foot Health Podiatry can schedule your toenail surgery within a week.
If you’re struggling with toenail problems, book an initial consultation with one of our Podiatry specialists to explore your options.
We also offer the following nail surgery treatments:
- Nail Surgery for Ingrown Toenails
- Nail Surgery for Thick Nails
- Nail Surgery for Recurring Infections
- Nail Surgery for Fungal Toenails
What’s Involved in Nail Surgery?
At Foot Health Podiatry Clinic Galway, toenail surgery is performed by our CORU-registered Podiatrists. The procedure involves injecting a local anaesthetic into both sides of the base of the affected toe to ensure complete numbness.
Once the toe is fully anaesthetised, a tourniquet (tight band) is applied to prevent bleeding during the surgery. After the procedure, the tourniquet is removed, and the toe is checked to ensure that blood flow has returned. A sterile dressing is then applied.
You will remain in the clinic for a short period with your foot elevated, during which time the dressing will be checked.
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled within 72 hours to examine the toe and reapply the dressing as needed.
Medical Risks of this Procedure
In extremely rare cases, local anaesthetics can cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, swelling, or very low blood pressure. It is crucial to inform your Podiatrist if you have experienced any adverse reactions or complications from local anaesthetics in the past.
As with any medical procedure, you may experience some discomfort during the injection of the local anaesthetic.
Other potential but rare risks or complications include:
- Postoperative Infection: This may require antibiotics if it occurs.
- Chemical Flare: Your toe may appear extremely red and rosy for a few weeks, though this is not serious and will resolve as the toe heals.
- Prolonged Numbness or Tingling: Caused by nerve irritation from the injection, this is uncommon but may last several weeks before fading.
- Nail Regrowth: In about 5% of cases, the nail may regrow, typically in a minor and manageable way. In very rare instances, if the chemical (phenol) used is not effective, you might need a referral for an orthopaedic procedure to address the ingrown toenail.
- Delayed Healing: This may occur in individuals with underlying health conditions that affect the body’s healing process. Your Podiatrist will monitor your recovery until it is complete.