Ingrown Toenail

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. This common condition often affects the big toe, though it can occur on any toe. Ingrown toenails can result from improper nail trimming, tight shoes, injury, or even genetic predisposition to curved toenails. While mild cases may resolve with home care, more severe cases may require professional treatment to avoid complications.

 

Ingrown toenails symptoms

You may need to seek treatment for an ingrown toenail if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent pain and discomfort around the affected nail
  • Redness, swelling, or tenderness along the side of the nail
  • Infection indicated by pus or drainage
  • Recurring ingrown toenails despite home remedies
  • Difficulty walking due to the pain
  • An ingrown toenail that affects the nail’s overall health and appearance

 

For patients with diabetes or circulation problems, professional treatment is recommended at the first sign of an ingrown toenail to prevent complications such as serious infections.

 

How does Dr Abramson treat ingrown toenails?

Dr Michael Abramson takes a patient-centred approach to treating ingrown toenails, focusing on the severity of the condition to determine the most effective treatment. For mild cases, he often starts with conservative methods, such as proper nail trimming techniques, warm foot soaks, and topical or oral antibiotics if an infection is present. He may also recommend gently lifting the nail with padding or dental floss to encourage the nail to grow outward and reduce pressure on the surrounding skin.

In more severe or recurrent cases, Dr Abramson may suggest a surgical approach. This could involve a partial nail avulsion, where only the affected part of the nail is removed, or a total nail avulsion for more serious cases. For patients suffering from chronic ingrown toenails, a matrixectomy may be performed, which involves removing a portion or all of the nail matrix to prevent future nail regrowth. Throughout each procedure, Dr Abramson prioritizes patient comfort, using local anaesthesia and ensuring a sterile environment for optimal recovery.

FAQ’s

How long does it take to recover after ingrown toenail surgery?
Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after surgery. Dr Abramson may recommend keeping the foot elevated and wearing open-toed shoes or loose footwear to allow the area to heal properly. Full recovery typically takes about 2–4 weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.
How can I prevent future ingrown toenails?

To reduce the risk of ingrown toenails, Dr Abramson advises patients to:

  • Trim toenails straight across, avoiding rounded corners
  • Wear well-fitting shoes with enough room for toes
  • Keep feet clean and dry
  • Avoid cutting nails too short
Is ingrown toenail surgery permanent?
In cases where Dr Abramson removes part of the nail matrix (the tissue responsible for nail growth), the ingrown toenail is less likely to recur. However, if only the ingrown portion is removed without treating the matrix, the nail may grow back, requiring further treatment if the problem recurs.