If you are suffering from onychocryptosis, then it is a medical term for an ingrown toenail. This happens when the edges of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, and the result is quite painful, redness in the toe, swelling, and also accompanied by infections; the condition is mainly seen in the big toe and can result from various factors. So, suppose you are also facing a recurrent ingrown toenail issue due to improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or genetic predisposition. In that case, you must consult a specialist who will help you remove it safely through surgical intervention.

Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

Suffering from ingrown toenails is nothing new, and multiple conservative treatment options can cure it effectively. If you want to temporarily eliminate the discomfort or stop the condition from getting worse, then here are the primary approaches:

• You have to soak the foot in soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes, which will help to reduce the swelling and tenderness.
• You can also try to lift the nail above the skin edge by soaking it for a few minutes and then using a small piece of dry cotton or dental floss under the ingrown edge of the nail.
• It is always advised to wear open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to minimize pressure on the toe, reducing pain and preventing further infection.
• You can also apply antibiotic ointments, which will help with minor drainage, reduce the redness, and prevent infection.

However, if the condition worsens, these conservative measures might not be applicable, and you will have to face the symptoms continuously. Thus, it is essential to seek medical attention from specialists at feetfirstpodiatry.com.sg/ingrown-toenail-removal-surgery-treatment/, who can remove the toenail surgically and prevent the persistent issue.

When Is The Toenail Removal Surgery done?

Toenail removal surgeries are usually prescribed if the infection becomes severe or there is hypertrophied (overgrown) tissue. Based on the stability of the condition, healthcare professionals prepare for the surgery, but it always depends on the patient’s initial treatment response.

Partial nail avulsion with matrix ectomy is the most common surgical procedure prescribed by doctors to treat ingrown toenails. During this procedure, a portion of the affected nail is removed, and the nail matrix, which is the tissue that produces the nails, is also destroyed. The overall goal is to prevent the occurrence of ingrown toenails.

Surgical Procedure Overview

To start the surgical process, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, which helps to ensure that the patient is comfortable during the procedure. Next, a cut is made, where a small portion of the side of the nail is removed. If there are chances that the nail can regrow, then to prevent the ingrown portion, the underlying nail matrix cell is also destroyed. In this process, chemical agents (such as phenol) or surgical excision are applied.

After matrix ectomy, if hypertrophied tissue is present on the side of the toe, it is also removed, which helps in proper healing. Finally, the toe is bandaged, and the foot is kept elevated for a few hours after the surgery.

Final Words

A surgical procedure is necessary to prevent further complications. Aftercare instructions are prepared, and the patient is provided with a follow-up routine, which fastens the healing process. It is also recommended to apply antibiotic ointment, avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks, and wear loose-fitting shoes until the foot is healed.