Nail Surgery
Nail surgeries are minimally invasive, soft tissue procedures that are performed in office for patient’s who experience recurring painful ingrown toenails and/or recurring infection.
There are different types of nail procedures:
Partial Nail Avulsion - in which one or both sides of the nail boarder(s) are removed
Total Nail Avulsion - in which the entire nail is removed
Both of the above procedures can be performed with or without matrixectomy - a special chemical that is applied to prevent the nail from growing back.
The procedure also requires the injection of a local anesthetic (very similar to dental procedures). The anesthetic is injected into both sides of toe to numb the 4 nerves that provide sensation to the surgical site.
Before the Procedure:
Wear wide and deep or open toed shoes to your appointment
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) 1 to 2 hours before your appointment. Consult your doctor first if you have a bleeding disorder or if analgesics are otherwise contraindicated
Arrive early to your appointment for paperwork and formalities
Do not hesitate to ask questions!
After the Procedure:
The area will remain numb for 3 to 4 hours after the injection
Should you experience excessive pain, redness, inflammation, swelling or excessive discharge , contact the office immediately or go to your nearest emergency department
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be taken for pain as needed
Some bleeding and/or clear drainage is a normal occurrence
For the first 24 hours, limit standing and walking and elevate your foot as much as possible
Remove the dressing 24 hours after your surgery and begin foot soaks following the below instructions:
Soak foot daily in lukewarm water with epsom salts/table salt for 15 minutes.
Make sure to agitate the foot to help remove any debris from the surgical area
Dry foot well and apply one of the following as instructed by your chiropodist: betadine or antibiotic ointment (fucidin, polysporin), and a dry dressing (band-aid).
Repeat daily until follow up visit with your chiropodist
Make sure to keep the dressing dry, Change the dressing immediately if it gets wet.
You can shower, but place a plastic bag over the foot to keep it dry
Avoid any strenuous activities for the first 3 to 5 days after your surgery
High heeled shoes should not be worn for several weeks after the procedure
Follow up with your chiropodist a week after the surgery. Call the clinic if any questions or concerns.