Belfast Trust provides nail surgery as a treatment option for painful or problem nail conditions such as, ingrowing, thickened, malformed or infected toenails. Big toenails are most commonly affected but any nail may have a problem.
To prevent ingrown nails
- Do not cut your toenails too short
- Cut straight across the nail and file the edges
- Do not wear shoes that are too tight or do not fit properly
Cut toenails straight across the curve of the nail
A patient referred to Belfast Trust Podiatry Service for a problem nail condition will attend an initial appointment for a full podiatric assessment and diagnosis of the problem. This allows the patient to consider the options available and to ask questions to ensure an informed decision on treatment.
Nail surgery is the process of removing part or all of a nail under local anaesthetic. In most cases, the nail bed is treated with a caustic agent to prevent regrowth of the nail.
The Nail Surgery Advice leaflet provides information on:
- What’s involved
- Risks
- On the day of procedure
- How to redress your toe following nail surgery
For nail surgery advice, click here.