If you’re experiencing the discomfort of an ingrown toenail, you might be contemplating surgery as a solution and wondering about the pain involved. Ingrown toenail surgery (also known as a PNA or Partial Nail Avulsion) is a common question for ingrown toenail sufferers. However, understanding what to expect can alleviate much of the anxiety associated with this procedure.
Does ingrown toenail surgery hurt? The procedure itself is typically painless because of the local anaesthetic that numbs the toe area quickly. Initially, the injection may cause a brief sting, but this discomfort is minor and short-lived. Post-surgery, patients might experience some throbbing as the anaesthesia wears off, but this is generally manageable with prescribed pain relievers and does not last long.
Join us as we explore ingrown toenail surgery, sharing what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Discover how this treatment can relieve the discomfort of ingrown toenails.
Does Ingrown Toenail Surgery Hurt? A Short Answer
Ingrown toenail surgery (Partial Nail Avulsion) usually involves minimal discomfort. The most pain you are likely to experience is a brief sting from the local anaesthetic, which acts swiftly to numb the toe completely. During the surgery, you shouldn’t feel any pain due to the effective numbing of the area. Post-operatively, some patients report mild throbbing which typically resolves quickly with proper care and medication. The surgical technique used avoids deep tissue trauma and stitches, which helps in reducing post-surgical pain and speeds up the healing process.
Experience Expert Care at Lidcombe Podiatry
If you’re struggling with an ingrown toenail or any other nail-related issues, it’s time to consider professional help. At Lidcombe Podiatry, our team of expert podiatrists uses the latest techniques and technologies to deliver the best results with minimal discomfort.
Don’t let toenail problems hold you back any longer. Call us today at (02) 8745 6297 or visit our Contact Us page. We’re here to help you step forward with confidence and ease.
How Much Time Does a Toenail Surgery Take?
Ingrown toenail surgery is generally a quick procedure, typically completed within 40 to 60 minutes. This timeline includes the preparation, the surgery itself and the initial post-operative care. However, several factors can influence the duration of the procedure, such as the severity of the ingrown toenail, the specific technique used by the surgeon and the patient’s overall health.
The complexity of the case is a primary factor. More severe cases, which involve significant infection or a recurring problem, may require more extensive surgery, thus extending the time needed.
Additionally, the patient’s responsiveness to local anaesthesia can affect how quickly the surgery can proceed. In all cases, the goal is to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety while effectively addressing the ingrown toenail.
Steps Involved in Ingrown Toenail Surgery
Preparation and Anaesthesia
Before the surgery starts, the toe is cleaned and prepared to maintain sterility. Local anaesthesia is commonly used to numb the toe, which is crucial as it ensures that the patient will feel no pain during the procedure.
Removing the Ingrown Part of the Nail
The podiatrist then carefully removes the ingrown section of the toenail, typically using specialised tools to cut the nail without damaging the surrounding tissue. This precise removal helps prevent further ingrowth and alleviates the immediate pain caused by the nail pressing into the skin.
Treating the Nail Bed
After removing the ingrown nail, the podiatrist may treat the nail bed to prevent recurrence. This might involve the application of a chemical to inhibit part of the nail’s growth, a process known as phenolization.
Application of Antiseptic and Bandaging
Once the nail part is removed and the area treated, the podiatrist will apply an antiseptic to the wound to prevent infection and then bandage the toe neatly. This dressing helps keep the area clean and protected as it heals.
Post-Operative Procedures
Immediately following the surgery, the area is cleaned, and the initial phase of healing begins. The patient is typically monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home.
Observation and Initial Recovery
The first few hours post-surgery are vital for observing any immediate complications. The patient is advised on how to identify issues and when to contact their podiatrist.
Guidance on Post-Surgery Care
Before leaving the clinic, patients receive detailed instructions on how to care for their toes at home. This includes information on when to return for redressings, keeping the toe dry, managing pain and recognising signs of potential complications.
Aftercare and Recovery of Toenail
Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth and rapid recovery following ingrown toenail surgery. Adhering closely to the podiatrist’s aftercare instructions not only helps prevent complications but also speeds up the healing process, ensuring a quicker return to daily activities.
Keeping the Toe Clean and Dry
It’s essential to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. This involves keeping the dressing dry when bathing and avoiding submerging the dressed toe in water until the podiatrist advises it’s safe to do so.
Avoiding Tight Shoes and Socks
Wearing loose-fitting shoes or sandals is recommended to reduce pressure on the toe during the recovery period. Tight footwear cannot only cause pain but also interfere with the healing process by causing additional trauma to the toe.
Monitoring for Signs of Infection
Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling or pus. Early detection and treatment of infections are crucial for preventing more severe health issues.
Following Your Podiatrist’s Instructions on Pain Management and Bandage Care
Manage pain as advised by your podiatrist and change bandages according to the instructions given. This helps in maintaining cleanliness at the wound site and managing discomfort effectively.
Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments with Your Podiatrist
Ensure to attend all follow-up redressing appointments. These visits allow your podiatrist to monitor the healing progress and address any concerns promptly.
Importance of Rest and Elevation of the Foot
Rest and keeping the foot elevated can significantly reduce swelling and promote faster healing. Try to keep the foot raised above heart level as often as possible, especially in the first few days after surgery.
Potential Complications and How to Avoid Them
Although ingrown toenail surgery is typically a safe procedure, as with any surgery, there are potential complications. Being aware of these risks and knowing how to prevent them can lead to a more successful recovery.
Post-surgical infection is the most common complication, but others include delayed healing, persistent pain or a recurrence of the ingrown toenail. In rare cases, there may be excessive bleeding or adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of Complications
To minimise the risk of complications, consider the following:
- Maintain rigorous hygiene to prevent infection.
- Follow all care instructions provided by your surgery team.
- Report any unusual symptoms to your podiatrist immediately, such as excessive pain, foul odour or unusual discharge from the site.
- Ensure proper nutritional intake to support healing, including foods rich in vitamins A and C, which can aid in tissue repair and immune function.
Summing Up
Ingrown toenail surgery is a highly effective procedure designed to relieve the severe discomfort caused by an ingrown toenail. While the thought of surgery might be daunting, understanding that the procedure involves minimal pain can provide significant relief. The surgery is quick, the pain management is effective and the recovery is typically smooth with adherence to aftercare instructions. By following your podiatrist’s guidance on aftercare, you can ensure a quick return to comfort and daily activities.
