Patient guide
Ingrown toenail surgery: self-care first, then partial or full nail removal
By the SkinOps team · Updated · 2 min read
Based on information from the NHS website. This guide is waiting for review by a clinician and is not medical advice.
An ingrown toenail is a common problem where the edge of the nail grows into the skin of the toe. It usually affects the big toe and can make every step sore. The good news is that many improve with simple self-care, and there are straightforward treatments if they do not.
Signs of an ingrown toenail
- pain in the toe, usually the big toe
- redness and swelling around the nail
- pus coming from the area, if it is infected
- a high temperature or feeling shivery, if it is infected
What you can do at home
- soak your foot in warm, salty water to soften the skin and help prevent infection
- dry your foot well afterwards
- wear loose, comfortable shoes
- take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you need pain relief
Try not to cut the nail or pick at it, and avoid tight or pointed shoes while it heals.
When to see a GP
Book an appointment if:
- self-care has not helped
- the toe looks infected
- you have a high temperature
- you have diabetes
If you have diabetes
Foot problems can be more serious when you have diabetes, so do not wait to get an ingrown toenail seen.
A GP can prescribe antibiotics if the toe is infected, and may refer you to a podiatrist.
Toenail surgery
If the problem does not settle, a podiatrist can remove the part of the nail that is growing into the skin (partial nail removal). Sometimes the whole nail needs to come off (total nail removal).
This is done under local anaesthetic, so you are awake but your toe is numb. As the numbness wears off you may notice some tingling, and it is sensible to take care not to knock the toe before the feeling comes back. Ask the podiatrist how to look after the toe afterwards and who to contact if you are worried.
Preventing it happening again
- cut your toenails straight across, and not too short
- avoid shoes that are too tight
- keep your feet clean and dry