Question 1

What is Nail Surgery?

Accepted Answer

Nail surgery is a minor podiatric procedure used to permanently or temporarily remove part or all of a toenail that is causing pain, infection, or repeated ingrowing.
The most common procedure is a partial nail avulsion with chemical cauterisation, which removes only the problematic section of the nail while preventing it from growing back. In more severe cases, total nail removal may be recommended.

Question 2

What conditions are treated with Nail Surgery?

Accepted Answer

Nail surgery is commonly recommended for:
 • Ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis)
 • Recurrent or infected ingrown nails
 • Thickened, damaged, or deformed toenails
 • Nail trauma or injury
 • Chronic nail pain unresponsive to conservative treatment
 • Nail infections causing repeated inflammation
If conservative podiatry care has not resolved the issue, nail surgery is often the most effective long-term option.

Question 3

What should I expect in Nail Surgery>

Accepted Answer

Your procedure will follow a clear, structured clinical pathway:

1. Assessment & Consent
A full podiatric assessment is carried out to confirm suitability for nail surgery. Treatment options, risks, and aftercare are explained clearly before consent is obtained.

2. Local Anaesthetic
The toe is fully numbed using a local anaesthetic injection. This ensures the procedure itself is pain-free.

3. Nail Removal
The affected portion (or the entire nail if required) is carefully removed using sterile instruments.

4. Chemical Cauterisation
A medical chemical is applied to prevent regrowth where a permanent solution is required.

5. Dressing & Aftercare
A sterile dressing is applied, and you will receive written aftercare instructions to support healing.

The procedure typically takes 45 minutes - 1 hour.

Question 4

Is Nail Surgery Painful?

Accepted Answer

The procedure itself is not painful, as the toe is fully anaesthetised. Some mild discomfort may be experienced once the anaesthetic wears off, but this is usually manageable with simple pain relief and settles quickly.

Question 5

What are recovery and healing times?

Accepted Answer

• Most patients return to normal daily activities within 24–48 hours
 • Dressings are usually required for 1–2 weeks
 • Full healing typically occurs within 4–6 weeks
 • Recurrence rates are very low when chemical cauterisation is used
You will be advised on footwear, activity levels, and dressing changes during recovery.

Question 6

Why choose us for Nail Surgery?

Accepted Answer

• HCPC-registered podiatry professional
 • Fully insured and clinically trained
 • Sterile instruments and infection-controlled procedures
 • Clear aftercare guidance and follow-up support
 • Calm, patient-focused approach
 • Clinic-based.

Your safety, comfort, and long-term outcome are our priority.

Question 7

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No referral is required. You can book directly following an assessment.

Question 8

Will my nail grow back?

Accepted Answer

If a permanent procedure is performed, the treated portion of the nail will not regrow.

With modern nail surgery using chemical cauterisation, the success rate is approximately 95–98%. There is a small risk that part of the nail may regrow, but this is uncommon.

Question 9

Can I walk after nail surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Walking is allowed immediately, although rest is recommended for the first 24 hours.

Question 10

Is Nail Surgery suitable for diabetics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, following a full vascular and neurological assessment.