Nail surgery also called nail matrix surgery or partial/total nail avulsion) is a minor surgical procedure performed by a podiatrist to treat chronic or severe nail problems that don’t respond to conservative care. It’s commonly used for ingrown toenails, thickened nails, fungal nails, or recurrent nail infections.
Book NowIndications for Nail Surgery
1. Ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis) – recurrent or painful.
2. Thickened or deformed nails due to trauma or fungal infection.
3. Chronic paronychia (nail fold infection).
4. Failed conservative treatment – e.g., nail braces or topical therapy.
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🛠 Types of Nail Surgery
1. Partial Nail Avulsion
• Only the affected part of the nail is removed (usually the side causing ingrowth).
• Often combined with phenolization (chemical destruction of the nail matrix) to prevent recurrence.
2. Total Nail Avulsion
• The entire nail is removed.
• Used for severe fungal infections or trauma.
• May or may not involve permanent nail removal depending on the condition.
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⚙️ Procedure Overview
1. Local anesthesia is applied (toe block).
2. The affected nail segment is lifted or removed.
3. Matrix destruction (chemical ) is performed if necessary.
4. Toe is dressed and bandaged.
5. Postoperative instructions are given to prevent infection and promote healing.
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🩺 Postoperative Care
• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Soak the toe as instructed (often after 24–48 hours).
• Watch for signs of infection: redness, swelling, pus, or severe pain.
• Pain relief: usually over-the-counter analgesics are sufficient.
• One Free post opp follow-up visit is offerd, may require more to check healing.
💡 Key Point: Nail surgery is minimally invasive, usually done under local anesthesia, and has a high success rate for relieving pain and preventing recurrence of nail problems.
