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Ingrown Toenail Surgery in the South Chicago Suburbs

Is It Right for You?

Surgical Options & Recovery

Ingrown toenails are a common and painful condition that affects people of all ages. While many cases can be treated conservatively, some situations require surgical intervention. At ASG Foot & Ankle Clinic in the South Chicago suburbs, our board-certified podiatrists have extensive experience performing ingrown toenail surgery with excellent outcomes.

If you're considering ingrown toenail surgery, it's important to understand when it's appropriate, what the procedure involves, and what to expect during recovery. This guide will help you make an informed decision about whether surgery is right for your situation.

When is Ingrown Toenail Surgery Necessary?

Surgical Candidates

  • Chronic or recurrent ingrown toenails that don't respond to conservative treatment
  • Severe pain and inflammation that interferes with daily activities
  • Signs of infection that persist despite antibiotic treatment
  • Excessive granulation tissue or abnormal nail growth

Non-Surgical Options First

  • Soaking feet in warm water and gently lifting the ingrown edge
  • Proper nail trimming techniques by a podiatrist
  • Antibiotic treatment for infection
  • Orthotics or padding to relieve pressure

Types of Ingrown Toenail Surgery

1

Partial Nail Avulsion

The most common procedure - only the ingrown portion of the toenail is removed, preserving most of the healthy nail.

Procedure Details

  • • Local anesthesia used
  • • Ingrown edge is removed
  • • Nail matrix may be treated to prevent regrowth
  • • Takes 15-30 minutes

Recovery

  • • 1-2 weeks healing time
  • • Limited walking initially
  • • Pain managed with medications
  • • Follow-up care required
2

Total Nail Avulsion

Complete removal of the toenail, used for severe or recurrent cases where partial removal isn't sufficient.

When Used

  • • Severe deformity of the nail
  • • Chronic infection not responding to treatment
  • • Abnormal nail growth patterns
  • • Patient preference in some cases

Considerations

  • • Longer recovery time (3-4 weeks)
  • • Nail will regrow completely
  • • May require longer pain management
  • • Higher chance of temporary deformity
3

Matrixectomy

Permanent removal of the nail matrix to prevent future ingrown toenails. Often combined with partial nail avulsion.

Methods

  • • Chemical (phenol) ablation
  • • Surgical excision
  • • Laser ablation
  • • Electrocautery

Benefits

  • • Prevents future ingrown toenails
  • • Reduces recurrence rate significantly
  • • May be covered by insurance
  • • Long-term solution for chronic cases

What to Expect During and After Surgery

Day of Surgery

  • Local anesthesia: You'll be awake but won't feel pain in your toe
  • Quick procedure: Most surgeries take 15-45 minutes
  • Same-day discharge: You can go home shortly after the procedure
  • Dressing applied: Your toe will be bandaged for protection

First Week Recovery

  • Pain management: Prescription pain medication as needed
  • Elevation: Keep foot elevated to reduce swelling
  • Limited activity: Avoid strenuous activities and prolonged standing
  • Dressing changes: Follow our instructions for keeping the area clean

Potential Risks and Complications

While ingrown toenail surgery is generally safe, all surgical procedures carry some risks. Our experienced podiatrists take every precaution to minimize complications.

Common Complications

  • • Temporary swelling and bruising
  • • Mild to moderate pain during recovery
  • • Temporary difficulty wearing closed shoes
  • • Recurrence if matrix isn't properly treated

Rare Complications

  • • Infection (treated with antibiotics)
  • • Excessive bleeding or hematoma
  • • Allergic reaction to anesthesia
  • • Abnormal nail regrowth

Success Rates and Realistic Expectations

95%

Initial Success Rate

Most patients experience complete resolution of their ingrown toenail symptoms after surgery.

85%

Long-term Success

With proper matrix treatment, recurrence rates are low. Most patients remain symptom-free.

2-4

Weeks Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, depending on the procedure type.

Why Patients Choose ASG for Ingrown Toenail Surgery

Expert Surgeons

Board-certified podiatrists with decades of experience performing toenail surgery.

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Modern Facilities

State-of-the-art surgical suites in convenient South Chicago suburbs locations.

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Comprehensive Care

Complete pre- and post-operative care with pain management and follow-up.

Ready to Get Relief from Your Ingrown Toenail?

Don't let an ingrown toenail continue to cause pain and limit your activities. Our experienced podiatrists can evaluate your condition and discuss whether surgery is the right option for you.