Nail Surgery
A problematic nail which cannot be resolved conservatively in the clinic may well require a minor operation. The procedure can be scheduled and undertaken relatively simply in the clinic under a local anaesthetic with the patient walking in and walking out on the same day
Nail surgery usually takes two forms:
- Removal of the problematic side of the nail and then applying a chemical (phenol) to prevent that side from growing back permanently. Both sides of the nail can be removed leaving just the central portion if necessary.
- Removal of the whole nail and then applying a chemical (phenol) to prevent regrowth permanently. The skin underneath the nail toughens up leaving the vague shape of a nail with no need to cover the area long term. This area can be painted with nail varnish or built up with lacquer to create a "false nail" which then can be painted.
Common conditions which may result in Nail Surgery:
- Recurrent ingrowing toenail
- Ingrowing toenail which fails to resolve with conservative care.
- Painful nail
- Nail deformity and thickening
