At Deal Podiatry, we offer nail surgery as a safe and highly effective treatment for patients suffering from chronic or recurrent ingrown toenails, thickened nails, or other nail conditions that have not responded to conservative care. Performed under local anaesthetic, nail surgery is a minor, minimally invasive procedure that provides permanent relief with minimal discomfort and a fast recovery.
Our HCPC-registered podiatrists at Deal Podiatry are fully trained in nail surgery techniques, ensuring you receive expert care in a clinical and reassuring environment.
What Is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery involves the partial or total removal of a nail under local anaesthetic. A chemical called phenol is applied to the nail matrix (root) to prevent regrowth of the offending nail edge or entire nail. There are two main procedures:
Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) – The problematic edge of the nail is removed. This is the most common procedure, ideal for ingrown toenails where only one side is affected.
Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) – The entire nail is removed. This is used for severely thickened, deformed, or fungally damaged nails.
Phenolisation – After removal, phenol is applied to destroy the nail matrix, preventing regrowth of the treated section.
Who Is Nail Surgery Suitable For?
Recurrent ingrown toenails – When conservative treatment such as nail cutting and padding has failed repeatedly.
Severely ingrown toenails – Painful, infected, or deeply embedded nail edges.
Thickened or deformed nails – Onychogryphosis or mycotic nails causing significant discomfort.
Patients seeking a permanent solution – One procedure typically resolves the problem permanently.
What to Expect on the Day
Local anaesthetic – The toe is numbed; patients may feel pressure but no pain during the procedure.
Nail removal – The nail edge or whole nail is carefully removed using specialist instruments.
Phenol application – Phenol destroys the relevant portion of the nail matrix to prevent regrowth.
Dressing and aftercare – A sterile dressing is applied. Aftercare instructions are provided, with follow-up appointments arranged.
Most patients return to normal footwear within a few days, though open-toed shoes or sandals are recommended for the initial healing period.
Recovery & Aftercare
Healing time – Typically 4–8 weeks for full healing, depending on the individual.
Dressings – Regular redressing at Deal Podiatry is included in the post-operative care plan.
Pain management – Mild discomfort after the anaesthetic wears off, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Activity – Most daily activities can be resumed the following day.
Risks & Complications
Nail surgery is very safe when performed by a qualified podiatrist. Risks are minimal but include:
Infection – Rare when proper aftercare is followed.
Regrowth – Phenolisation has a high success rate (~95%), though a small percentage of cases may require a repeat procedure.
Sensitivity to phenol – Uncommon; our podiatrists take a full medical history beforehand.
Related Condition: Ingrown Toenails
Nail surgery is the most effective long-term solution for recurring ingrown toenails. Learn more about the condition and how it develops.
Book Your Nail Surgery Consultation at Deal Podiatry
If you are suffering from a painful ingrown toenail or a chronic nail condition, nail surgery may be the permanent solution you need. Contact Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, to book a consultation with our experienced podiatrists.