Ingrown Toenail Surgery in Alice Springs
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Alice Springs Ingrown Toenail Surgery
Ingrown toenails can cause persistent pain, swelling, and make everyday activities uncomfortable. Most of the time, ingrown toenails respond well to conservative care by gently removing the impinging nail and addressing causative factors such as ill-fitting footwear.
For clients dealing with chronic inflammation, recurring infections, or difficulty walking due to ingrown toenails, nail surgery is often recommended after conservative options (like nail bracing or trimming) have been tried.
Performed under local anesthetic, the procedure is designed to minimise discomfort and help patients return to normal activity quickly.
If ingrown toenails are affecting your comfort, mobility or quality of life, this may be a suitable option to explore. To learn more or make an appointment, call Alice Springs Podiatry on 08 8953 8822.
What You Can Expect from Toenail Surgery
Ingrown toenail surgery is a precise and controlled procedure carried out by a qualified podiatrist.
The treatment is performed under local anesthetic and usually takes less than an hour.
The technique is minimally invasive, focusing only on the problem section of the nail. In many cases, a chemical treatment is applied to stop the regrowth of the ingrown edge, reducing the risk of recurrence. The process takes place in a clean, clinical environment using sterile equipment, with aftercare advice provided to support healing.
Most people are able to comfortably return to wearing normal footwear in 2-3 days post-surgery, while time to complete healing can take about 2-6 weeks. Following professional advice is key to avoiding complications. Post-procedure advice will include dressing changes, footwear suggestions, and how to monitor for signs of infection. For patients with underlying conditions like diabetes or circulation problems, a tailored care plan is advised.
What is the recovery time for ingrown toenail surgery?
Recovery time can vary depending on the type of procedure performed and individual healing rates. Most will return to wearing normal footwear within a few days, though mild discomfort and swelling may last for 1-2 weeks. Complete healing, including the regrowth of healthy skin and nail tissue, can take 2-6 weeks. If a chemical treatment is applied to the nail root to stop the regrowth of the ingrown edge, recovery may extend longer. Keeping the foot clean, avoiding tight footwear and following your doctor’s aftercare instructions are essential to prevent infection and promote faster healing.
Is ingrown toenail surgery painful?
The procedure is typically not painful because it’s performed under a local anaesthetic. You might feel slight pressure during the surgery, but not pain. Once the anaesthetic wears off, some mild soreness or throbbing is normal for the first 24–48 hours.
Pain is usually manageable with paracetamol or over-the-counter medication. Most people find the discomfort significantly less than the pain caused by the ingrown toenail itself.
Can the ingrown toenail grow back after surgery?
Yes, however the risk of nail re-growth with permanent procedures is very low (<5%). With permanent removal of the ingrown nail that was causing discomfort, you should be left with a pain free toe for the remainder of your life.
However, factors like poor footwear, nail trauma, or improper nail trimming can contribute to recurrence. Your podiatrist can advise on prevention and monitor your healing to reduce the chances of it returning.
Do I need a referral for ingrown toenail surgery?
No, you do not require a referral for ingrown toenail surgery or to see a podiatrist. However, certain programs such as DVA, Medicare CCMP, or Work Cover will require a GP referral for rebates.
