What to Expect at an Ingrown Toenail Appointment
In ingrown toenail is painful, frustrating, and surprisingly common. Yet many people put off seeing a podiatrist. They’re simply not sure what to expect. If that sounds like you, this article is for you.
Below, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens at an ingrown toenail appointment at Sole-Lution Podiatry. We’ll cover everything from the moment you arrive to your recovery at home.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail edge grows into the surrounding skin. This most often affects the big toe. As a result, the skin becomes red, swollen, and sore. In some cases, it can also become infected. This then causes extra pain and discharge.
Ingrown toenails don’t always go away on their own. In fact, trying to dig out the nail at home can make things worse. Instead, a podiatrist can treat it safely and with very little discomfort.
Step 1: Your Initial Assessment
First, when you arrive, your podiatrist will carry out a thorough assessment. They’ll ask how long you’ve had the problem. They’ll also ask about your symptoms, any past episodes, and your general health.
This information helps them choose the best treatment for your situation. For example, if there are signs of infection, they’ll factor that into the plan. In addition, your podiatrist will look closely at the nail. They’ll check its shape, growth pattern, and how much skin is affected.
Step 2: Conservative Treatment
Not every ingrown toenail needs surgery. In mild or early cases, conservative treatment may be all that’s needed.
This involves carefully removing the problem nail edge using specialist tools. The procedure is quick. In most cases, it also causes very little discomfort. Your podiatrist will then clean the area and may apply a dressing to protect it while it heals.
Furthermore, they’ll give you advice on stopping it from coming back. This includes tips on cutting your nails correctly, choosing the right footwear, and general nail care. You can read more about prevention on our ingrown toenail treatment page.
Step 3: Nail Surgery
However, if your ingrown toenail keeps coming back, surgery may be the right option. The same applies if the nail has caused a serious infection.
There are two common options. The first is a partial nail avulsion. This involves removing a narrow strip of nail along the affected edge. Alternatively, the second option is removing the entire nail. This is used for more severe cases. In both cases, a chemical called phenol is then applied to the nail root. This stops that portion from growing back.
The procedure is done in the clinic under local anaesthetic. As a result, you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Most patients are, in fact, surprised by how quick and painless it is.
According to Healthdirect Australia, nail surgery for ingrown toenails has a very high success rate. Moreover, most people recover without any complications.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After surgery, your podiatrist will apply a light dressing to the toe. You’ll also receive clear instructions on how to care for it at home.
Most people return to normal activity the very next day. However, you’ll need to keep the area clean and dry. You should also avoid tight footwear for a short time. Your podiatrist will then book a follow-up to check on healing and remove the dressing.
Some mild tenderness in the days after surgery is completely normal. Nevertheless, if you notice increased redness, pain, or discharge, contact your podiatrist straight away.
Does It Hurt?
This is the most common question we hear. The honest answer is: very little. The local anaesthetic injection is the most uncomfortable part. Even so, it only lasts a moment. Once the area is numb, you won’t feel a thing.
In fact, many patients tell us they wished they had come in sooner. Tolerating the pain of an ingrown nail for weeks is never worth it.
How Long Does It Take?
A conservative treatment appointment takes around 30 minutes. A nail surgery appointment, however, takes between 45 and 60 minutes. That includes prep and recovery time in the clinic.
Either way, you can arrive, get treated, and be back on your feet in one visit. You can also drive yourself home afterwards.
Book Your Appointment
If an ingrown toenail is causing you pain, don’t wait. Our team at Sole-Lution Podiatry provides expert, gentle care in a friendly clinic. You can also learn more about our full range of podiatry services. Book an appointment online today and get the relief you deserve.