What South Chicago Suburbs Patients Should Know
As board-certified podiatrists serving the South Chicago suburbs for nearly three decades, we understand that the fear of pain is one of the biggest barriers preventing patients from seeking necessary toenail surgery. At ASG Foot & Ankle Clinic, we've performed thousands of toenail procedures and have refined our techniques to minimize discomfort while ensuring excellent outcomes.
The good news is that modern toenail surgery is much less painful than many patients expect. With proper anesthesia, pain management techniques, and postoperative care, most patients experience manageable discomfort that improves quickly. This comprehensive guide addresses your concerns about toenail surgery pain and explains what you can expect at our South Chicago suburbs clinics.
With proper anesthesia, you should feel little to no pain during toenail surgery itself. Our goal is complete comfort throughout the procedure.
We begin with a local anesthetic injection to numb the entire toe. While the injection itself may cause a brief stinging sensation (like a bee sting), the area quickly becomes completely numb, and you won't feel the surgery.
For patients who experience anxiety about procedures, we offer oral sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax completely. These options ensure you remain comfortable and calm throughout the procedure.
Once anesthesia takes effect, you shouldn't feel any pain during the actual surgery. You may feel pressure or mild tugging sensations, but these are not painful when properly anesthetized.
As the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild to moderate discomfort. This is normal and typically peaks within the first 24 hours before gradually improving.
Pain continues to decrease significantly after the first few days. Most patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, though complete healing takes longer.
Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and numb discomfort.
Keep the foot elevated above heart level when sitting to minimize swelling and throbbing pain.
Use surgical shoes or sandals to avoid pressure on the healing toe and reduce pain with movement.
Partial nail removal causes less pain than complete removal. Simple procedures heal faster.
More severe infections may cause more postoperative pain due to inflammation.
Pain tolerance varies by individual. Age, overall health, and anxiety levels play a role.
Following pain medication instructions and using ice therapy significantly reduces discomfort.
The anesthesia injection causes a brief stinging sensation, but it's very quick (10-30 seconds). We use the smallest needles possible and can apply topical numbing cream beforehand if you're concerned.
Most patients describe postoperative pain as mild to moderate (3-5 on a 10-point scale) and well-controlled with prescribed medications. Pain peaks within the first 24 hours and decreases rapidly thereafter.
Most toenail surgery patients do well with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. We reserve narcotic prescriptions for cases with severe pain or when patients cannot take NSAIDs.
Yes, toenail surgery is typically performed with local anesthesia only, so you can drive yourself home. If you choose sedation, you'll need someone to drive you. The procedure takes 30-45 minutes.
Of our toenail surgery patients rate their postoperative pain as mild or very manageable.
Of patients who had toenail surgery with us would recommend the procedure to others.
Most patients require prescription pain medication for only the first 1-2 days.
Expert pain management techniques ensure your comfort throughout the procedure and recovery.
Nearly 30 years performing toenail surgery with proven techniques for minimal discomfort.
From consultation through complete healing, we manage your pain and recovery every step.
Modern toenail surgery with proper anesthesia and pain management is much less painful than most patients expect. Our experienced podiatrists in the South Chicago suburbs are committed to your comfort throughout the entire process. We can address your specific concerns and ensure you have a positive experience with minimal discomfort.