Spotlight on Surgery for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a problem frequently seen in podiatry, and they are a common cause of foot pain that can significantly impact the sufferer’s day-to-day life. If you have an ingrown toenail, then your podiatrist in Chicago may suggest any of a range of treatments. However, if conservative options fail to improve your condition, then your doctor may recommend surgery for your ingrown toenail.

Ingrown toenail surgery can be performed while you’re awake, and a local anesthetic will be used to ensure that your toe is completely numb. Your podiatrist will then remove excess tissue from the affected area, as well as part or all of the problematic toenail. If you suffer from chronic ingrown toenails, then some of the nailbed may be removed as well, which can provide the nail with more space to grow. Finally, after flushing away any infection that may be present, your doctor will bandage your toe and provide you with aftercare instructions. Patients should plan to remain off the foot for a few days or more following this treatment.