NAIL

SURGERY

At Kenilworth Footcare our team of podiatrists are
qualified to provide nail surgery under local
anaesthetic for the permanent cure of ingrown and
problem nails.

What is Nail Surgery?

Nail surgery (also called nail avulsion) is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic for the permanent cure of ingrown and problem nails.

It is generally performed when conservative nail care treatments only provide temporary relief or where the nail or nails have become damaged.

The procedure is explained in more detail in our blog - Nail Surgery at Kenilworth Footcare: What to Expect from Consultation to Recovery

At Kenilworth Footcare, we have the option of using either a chemical (phenol) or laser to kill (ablate) the nail matrix to prevent regrowth of the nail. Laser is usually our preferred option as it results in swift healing and reduced risk of post-operative infection. You can read more about the pros and cons in our blog HERE.

WHY CHOOSE US?

  • HCPC REGISTERED PODIATRISTS

  • EVIDENCE BASED SURGERY

  • LOCAL ANAESTHETIC

  • STERILE INSTRUMENTS

  • PRIVATE CONSULTATION

  • FULLY INSURED

  • PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR APPOINTMENT

History

Your practitioner will take a full medical, medication & lifestyle history at your initial appointment to insure you are suitable for nail surgery. All your information is taken in a private room and stored on our secure database for your privacy & security.

Anaesthetic

On the day of the surgery we will review your medical history and assess the blood flow in your feet using a doppler. This is a painless procedure and when you and our podiatrist are both happy we administer a local anaesthetic to numb the toe or toes.

Surgery

Once the toe or toes are numb and you are happy to proceed our podiatrist will perform the surgery in a relaxed professional manner using sterile instruments in an aseptic environment. The procedure often takes less than 10 mins per toe and you leave with aftercare advise and a follow-up appointment

Professional

& Affordable

Free
Parking

Modern

Clinic

Experienced

Practitioners

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fee for nail surgery?

We aim to provide professional, affordable foot care at all times. Our nail surgery fee, therefore, reflects the high standard of care we provide.

New clients will need to book an Initial Consultation so that we can assess their suitability for surgery. The fee for surgery will depend on a number of factors and will be outlined by the podiatrist at the consultation.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL OUR TREATMENT FEES →

How many treatments will I need?

You generally have 3-4 appointments.

The first is your initial assessment so we can see the affected nail or nails and assess whether you are suitable for nail surgery.

The second is the day of the surgery.

The third and forth are the follow-up redressing appointments.

Who is suitable for nail surgery?

With a few exceptions, most people are suitable for nail surgery. The only exceptions are those who have a medical contraindication to the anaesthetic or have poor wound healing.

Children, adults and the elderly regularly undergo nail surgery at our clinic.

Will I need time off work after nail surgery?

Most patients can return to work the next day, though we recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a few days. We'll give you specific aftercare advice based on your job and lifestyle.

Will the anaesthetic hurt?

We use very fine needles and special techniques to make the anaesthetic as comfortable as possible. Most patients are surprised at how little they feel.

Is chemical or laser ablation the best way to kill the nail matrix?

Both phenol and laser will effectively kill the nail matrix and stop the nail from regrowing. We generally prefer to use laser as phenol causes a chemical burn which can take longer to heal, but you can read more about the pros and cons in our blog HERE.

Can I drive after nail surgery?

No, your insurance won't cover you to drive with a numb foot. It can take a few hours for the anaesthetic to completely wear off, so you will need to arrange for someone to collect you.

I'm not sure I want surgery. Are there any other options?

Your podiatrist will discuss other options with you. Some nails can be managed by resection (clipping out the part that grows into the toe) but this isn't a permanent solution and will need to be repeated as the nail grows. Other nails can be treated with a brace to retrain it's direction of growth. Read more HERE.

But if your ingrown nail is longstanding and has developed hypergranulation tissue and/or infection then surgery is usually the best solution. Most people are pleasantly surprised by how quick and painless the procedure is.

APPOINTMENTS

BOOK ONLINE - AT ANYTIME