ingrown toenail surgery
What is a ingrown toenail surgery and why is it required some of the time?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling and sometimes infection. While many cases improve with simple care, surgery may be recommended when symptoms persist, recur or significantly interfere with walking, sport or footwear.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment & Nail Removal | Liverpool
- The procedure is usually done as a day-case under local anaesthetic (toe block).
- The painful edge of the nail is carefully removed.
- In most cases, the underlying nail root (matrix) is chemically or surgically treated to prevent the ingrown section from growing back — known as partial nail avulsion with matrix ablation.
- In recurrent or severe cases, full nail removal may be required.
- A sterile dressing is applied before you go home.
The nail typically becomes slightly narrower or absent, but more comfortable long-term.
ingrown toenail consent information
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Post Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Dressings are kept dry and changed as advised.
- Walking is usually possible immediately in comfortable shoes or sandals.
- Elevation helps reduce throbbing.
- Mild ooze is normal for the first few days.
- Return to desk work can often occur within 1–3 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Healing progresses and dressings reduce.
- Most patients resume normal footwear.
- Scar sensitivity gradually settles.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- Final cosmetic and comfort improvements occur.
- Running and sport usually permitted if fully healed.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Pain at the side of the nail
- Difficulty with shoes or walking
- Recurrent infections or dressings
- Interference with activity or sport
After Surgery
- Pain relief once initial healing is complete
- Improved comfort in footwear
- Reduced infection risk
- Low recurrence rate with matrix ablation
Long term success
- The nail remains slightly narrower but comfortable
- Recurrence rates are low when the nail root is treated
- Most patients return to full activity without limitation
Ingrown toenail surgery is a simple, reliable procedure for persistent or painful ingrown toenails that do not respond to conservative care. By removing the ingrown nail and preventing regrowth, the operation relieves pain, reduces infection and improves long-term nail comfort.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
Copyright © 2026 Prof Lyndon Mason - All Rights Reserved.