The Real Recovery Timeline After Ingrown Toenail Surgery

An ingrown toenail may begin very subtly. For example, you might trim your toenail so the sides are curved, rather than straight across, and because there isn’t any pain then, you go on your merry way.

Unfortunately, after some time passes, you might notice the edge of your toenail digging into your skin along or beyond the edge of your nailbed, causing pain, redness, and maybe even pus, a sign of infection.

There are different treatments for the troubling and uncomfortable symptoms that accompany an ingrown toenail, including topical and oral antibiotics and toenail splints specially designed to realign your toenail. But sometimes surgical removal of part or all of your toenail is necessary. 

At Premier Foot & Ankle, not only are our caring podiatrists able to perform these procedures so you can get lasting relief, but they’re also committed to preparing you fully for the procedure and having an in-depth discussion about what to expect as you recover.

What to know about ingrown toenails

Even though the area of skin that an ingrown toenail irritates is tiny, the discomfort is anything but. In addition to pain and inflammation, an ingrown toenail can cause:

• The skin around your ingrown toenail to turn very red
• The skin in the area to feel warm to the touch
• Intense sensitivity
• A feeling of pressure in the affected area
• The skin in the area to form a lump that overlaps your nail edge
• Pus discharge

In addition to improper nail trimming techniques, sometimes people are predisposed to ingrown toenails because of the natural shape of their nails. Still others result from injury, toenail fungus, cutting your toenail too short, or wearing shoes that are too tight.

If you live with certain health conditions, like diabetes or circulation problems, you’re at higher risk of getting an ingrown toenail. 

What leads to the need for ingrown toenail surgery?

If you have recurring ingrown toenails, we might advise the partial or full removal of your toenail, known as a matricectomy. Surgery might also be called for if your symptoms are severe or an infection has developed.

The procedure itself is fairly quick. It’s done in our office, and we numb your toe prior to the procedure.

What you can expect after surgical removal of an ingrown toenail

Recovery from the partial or full surgical removal of an ingrown toenail usually takes several weeks. During this time, there are steps you can take to hasten healing and keep yourself as comfortable as possible, including:

• Keeping your wound bandaged and protected 
• Cleaning your wound
• When not cleaning or soaking your toe, keeping it dry
• Soaking your foot in warm water or Epsom salts daily
• If you had an infection, you may be prescribed an antibiotic ointment — use as directed
• Waiting to return to exercise until your provider clears you
• Not picking at or otherwise irritating your wound
• Wearing shoes that fit but are loose, or going without them when you can

By giving your toe some major TLC, it will heal after a few weeks. During your recovery time, it’s also fine to take over-the-counter NSAID pain medication if you’re experiencing discomfort. 

Even though it’s normal to experience some discomfort in the weeks after ingrown toenail removal, there are lots of things you can do to relieve it and optimize your healing experience. 

At Premier Foot & Ankle, our approach to any surgery involves explaining the procedure in detail, taking the time to address your questions and concerns, and being available for you before, during, and after your surgery.

If you’re in agony because of an advanced ingrown toenail, it’s time to get help. Call one of our five convenient Texas Premier Foot & Ankle locations today to schedule an appointment, or you can book online anytime.