Nail problems such as ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and nail deformities can cause significant pain and discomfort. When conservative treatments fail, nail surgery in Cardiff may be the best solution to relieve pain, prevent infections, and restore the health of your feet. At Fordham-Rees Podiatry, expert podiatrists perform safe and effective nail surgery to treat a range of nail conditions. This guide explains when nail surgery is needed, the different types of procedures, what to expect during the surgery, and aftercare instructions.
Fordham-Rees Podiatry offers expert ingrown toenail treatment in Cardiff, including nail surgery in Cardiff and toenail removal in Cardiff, ensuring effective, professional foot care for pain relief and healthy nails.
When Is Nail Surgery Necessary?
Nail surgery is typically recommended when:
Ingrown toenails are severe or keep returning despite conservative treatments.
Chronic fungal nail infections cause thickened, deformed, or discolored nails that do not respond to antifungal treatments.
Trauma or injury leads to a broken or damaged nail that does not heal properly.
Painful nail deformities make walking uncomfortable.
Recurring infections develop under the nail, increasing the risk of complications.
If you are experiencing persistent nail pain, infection, or deformity, consulting a podiatrist for nail surgery in Cardiff can help you regain comfort and mobility.
Types of Nail Surgery
Depending on the severity of the condition, a podiatrist may recommend one of the following surgical treatments:
1. Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) – Partial Toenail Removal
The most common nail surgery for ingrown toenails.
Involves removing only the affected portion of the nail while leaving the healthy part intact.
A chemical (phenol) may be applied to prevent regrowth and recurrence of the problem.
Quick recovery time with minimal discomfort.
2. Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) – Full Toenail Removal
The entire toenail is removed when it is severely damaged, thickened, or infected.
The nail root may be treated with a chemical to prevent regrowth (permanent removal) or left untreated to allow the nail to regrow naturally.
Recommended for severe fungal infections and trauma-related nail damage.
3. Matrixectomy – Permanent Nail Removal
The nail matrix (the area that produces the nail) is surgically removed to prevent regrowth.
Used for recurring ingrown toenails and severe nail deformities.
Ensures that the problem does not return, providing a long-term solution.
What to Expect During Nail Surgery
If you are scheduled for nail surgery in Cardiff, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure:
1. Consultation and Assessment
A podiatrist will examine your toenail and determine if surgery is the best option.
You will be given information about the procedure, including risks and recovery time.
If necessary, a pre-surgery health check will be conducted.
2. Preparation and Local Anesthesia
On the day of the procedure, your foot will be cleaned and prepared for surgery.
A local anesthetic will be injected into the toe to numb the area completely.
This ensures a pain-free experience during the surgery.
3. Nail Removal Procedure
The podiatrist carefully removes either part of the nail (Partial Nail Avulsion) or the entire nail (Total Nail Avulsion).
If necessary, a chemical treatment (phenol) is applied to prevent regrowth.
The area is cleaned, and a sterile dressing is applied.
The entire procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Aftercare Instructions
You will be provided with detailed aftercare guidance to ensure proper healing.
Instructions on dressing changes, pain management, and activity restrictions will be given.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients recover quickly after nail surgery in Cardiff, but proper aftercare is essential to prevent complications.
1. First 24-48 Hours
Keep your foot elevated to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Avoid putting pressure on the affected toe.
2. Wound Care and Dressing Changes
Follow your podiatrist’s instructions for changing the dressing regularly.
Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid soaking the toe in water until advised.
Apply antiseptic ointment if recommended by your podiatrist.
3. Pain Management
Mild pain is normal, but over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help.
Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks that put pressure on the toe.
4. Activity Restrictions
Rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activities.
Walking is fine, but avoid high-impact activities such as running or jumping until the toe has healed.
5. Follow-Up Appointment
A follow-up visit ensures the wound is healing properly.
If any signs of infection (excessive redness, swelling, pus, or fever) occur, contact your podiatrist immediately.
Potential Risks and Complications
Nail surgery is generally safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks:
Infection: Proper wound care reduces the risk of infection.
Delayed Healing: Patients with diabetes or circulation problems may take longer to heal.
Nail Regrowth Issues: If the nail root is not treated with a chemical, the nail may grow back abnormally or become ingrown again.
Temporary Numbness: Some patients experience mild numbness in the toe due to the anesthesia, but this usually resolves within a few hours.
Long-Term Outlook: What Happens After Nail Surgery?
✅ If the nail root was not treated, the nail will regrow over several months. It may have a slightly different appearance but should grow normally.
✅ If phenol was applied, the nail will not regrow, preventing future problems. This is a permanent solution for chronic ingrown toenails.
How to Prevent Future Nail Problems
To minimize the risk of future nail issues, follow these preventive measures:
✔️ Trim Nails Properly: Always cut toenails straight across and avoid rounding the edges.
✔️ Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the nails.
✔️ Practice Good Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infections.
✔️ Protect Your Toenails: Avoid trauma by wearing protective footwear in high-risk environments.
Why Choose Fordham-Rees Podiatry for Nail Surgery in Cardiff?
At Fordham-Rees Podiatry, patients receive expert care from highly trained podiatrists specializing in toenail treatments. Here’s why people choose this clinic:
✔️ Experienced Podiatrists – Skilled specialists with years of experience in nail surgery.
✔️ Pain-Free Treatment – Local anesthesia ensures a comfortable, pain-free experience.
✔️ Comprehensive Aftercare – Detailed guidance helps ensure quick and complication-free healing.
✔️ Personalized Approach – Every treatment is tailored to individual needs for the best outcomes.
Conclusion
If you are suffering from ingrown toenails, chronic infections, or nail deformities, nail surgery in Cardiff at Fordham-Rees Podiatry provides an effective and lasting solution. Whether you need partial nail removal, total nail avulsion, or permanent nail surgery, professional podiatrists ensure a safe, comfortable, and successful treatment. Contact Fordham-Rees Podiatry today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward pain-free, healthy feet!