Ingrown toenail surgery

Written by Prof Lyndon Mason, Consultant Foot and Ankle Surgeon. Last reviewed 25 October 2026.

In short

Ingrown toenail surgery removes the painful edge of the nail and, in most cases, treats the nail root so that edge cannot grow back (partial nail avulsion with matrix ablation). It is a day-case procedure under a local anaesthetic toe block. You can walk straight away in comfortable shoes or sandals, many people return to desk work within 1 to 3 days, and running and sport resume once the toe has fully healed.

Anaesthetic: Local anaesthetic (toe block)
Hospital stay: Day case
Walking afterwards: Walking straight away in comfortable shoes
Full recovery: 6 to 12 weeks

Why is surgery needed?

An ingrown toenail happens when the side of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling and sometimes infection. Surgery is recommended when symptoms persist, keep coming back or significantly interfere with walking, sport or footwear.

What does the procedure involve?

The painful edge of the nail is carefully removed
In most cases the nail root (matrix) at that edge is treated chemically or surgically so the ingrowing section does not grow back. This is called partial nail avulsion with matrix ablation
In recurrent or severe cases, the whole nail may need to be removed
A sterile dressing is applied before you go home

Afterwards the nail is usually slightly narrower, or absent if fully removed, but more comfortable in the long term.

Recovery: what to expect

0 to 2 weeks
- Keep dressings dry and change them as advised
- Walk straight away in comfortable shoes or sandals
- Raising the foot helps reduce throbbing
- Mild ooze is normal for the first few days
- Desk work can often resume within 1 to 3 days
2 to 6 weeks
- Healing progresses and dressings reduce
- Most people return to normal footwear
- Sensitivity of the nail edge gradually settles
6 to 12 weeks
- Final cosmetic and comfort improvements
- Running and sport are usually fine once fully healed

Recovery varies with the exact procedure and with each person. You will get a plan specific to your operation.

Expected outcomes

Before surgery

Pain at the side of the nail
Difficulty with shoes or walking
Repeated infections and dressings
Interference with activity or sport

After surgery

Pain relief once initial healing is complete
More comfortable footwear
Lower risk of infection
Low chance of recurrence when the nail root is treated

The nail stays slightly narrower but comfortable, recurrence is low when the nail root is treated, and most people return to full activity without limitation.

The consent form for this procedure will be added here shortly. In the meantime, Prof Mason's team will send it to you before your operation, or you can request it by calling 07717 580737.