Nail Surgery

Book an appointment
Exeter Clinic 2
services

Nail Surgery

Nail surgery is one way to manage ingrown toenails, particularly where more conservative approaches have failed to bring comfort or resolution. Depending upon the desired outcome, the underlying nail matrix can be treated with a liquid to reduce the risk of the offending nail or section of nail from regrowing and causing bother again. Depending upon the presentation of the nail, your Podiatrist may recommend a total or a partial procedure for the best chance of improved comfort and to resolve the issues with your problematic nail(s).
Exeter Clinic 6

Advantages of nail surgery

  • Instant relief from the pressure of the ingrown nail.
  • Healing time typically from as little as 4 weeks (can be up to 12 weeks depending on circumstances).
  • Quick, effective and easy.
  • The Exeter Clinic provides a structured programme of treatment with post op care and full dressing pack included as standard as well as out - of hours service.
Consult with a podiatrist at The Exeter Clinic for your first step from painful ingrown toenails to comfort and activity. Call to arrange a consultation on (01392) 217333 or book online.
Book an appointment
Exeter Clinic 19 1

Signs You Might Need Nail Surgery

You may need nail surgery if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or infection around your toenail that doesn’t improve with home care or conservative treatments. Other signs include a chronically ingrown nail digging into the skin, repeated nail infections, or nail deformities causing discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. If your toenail problem affects your daily activities or worsens despite treatment, consulting a podiatrist at The Exeter Clinic can help determine if surgery is the best option for lasting relief.
FAQs

Nail Surgery FAQs

Is nail surgery painful?
Nail surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort or mild soreness is normal afterward but can be managed with simple pain relief.
Recovery typically takes 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of surgery and individual healing. Most people can resume normal activities within a few days but should follow aftercare instructions carefully.
Depending on the procedure, the treated part of the nail matrix may be permanently removed to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail section. Partial or total removal can reduce the chance of recurrence.
Yes, nail surgery is a safe and common podiatric procedure when performed by trained professionals. The Exeter Clinic provides thorough aftercare to minimise risks of infection or complications.
You can drive when you can safely operate the vehicle, after the local anaesthetic has worn off, usually after 2 – 3hrs. However, you should make alternative arrangements for transport home to avoid driving immediately after surgery.