Toenail avulsion surgery removes part or all of a damaged or painful toenail. A podiatrist recommends this procedure when a nail causes repeated pain, grows into the surrounding skin, or becomes badly damaged. Surgery also helps when part of the nail keeps returning after previous treatment. Depending on the problem, the podiatrist removes only the affected section or the entire nail. In some cases, the small area that produces the nail is treated to reduce the chance of that section growing back.

Before surgery, the toe is carefully examined by a podiatrist. The area is numbed before the nail is removed, helping patients stay comfortable throughout the procedure. The nail is lifted with special instruments designed to protect the surrounding skin. After the nail is removed, the podiatrist checks the nail bed for hidden damage, infection, or abnormal tissue. The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail that supports healthy nail growth. The toe is then covered with a protective dressing before patients leave the office. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing, watch for problems, and decide when normal activities can safely resume.

Toenail avulsion surgery can relieve ongoing discomfort and prevent repeated nail problems from interfering with daily life. Patients usually notice improved comfort while walking after the painful nail has been removed. A podiatrist also discusses whether future nail growth is expected or whether the treated section is intended to remain permanently absent. Prompt evaluation also allows other nail conditions to be identified before they become more serious. Early treatment can also improve shoe comfort and reduce pressure on nearby skin. It can also restore confidence when standing, walking, and participating in everyday activities without ongoing pain. If you have a toenail that has become painful, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if avulsion surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied of Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.