Do You Need Surgery for Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown fingernails rarely require surgical treatment. Surgery is more common with ingrown toenails. However, if an ingrown nail doesn't resolve on its own, you may need to see a family doctor or dermatologist for a surgical solution. Doctors commonly use a procedure called nail avulsion.

When does an ingrown toenail need surgery?

Surgery may be needed if the ingrown portion of the nail is firmly embedded in your skin or you have developed an infection. Signs of infection include swelling, pus, warmth and redness in your toe. During surgery, your podiatrist removes the strip of toenail that is causing the problem.

Is ingrown toenail surgery painful?

The entire ingrown toenail surgery is completely painless due to the effects of the anesthetic. By the time the anesthetic wears off, your pain level will be significantly reduced from where it was before the procedure.