Advanced Foot and Ankle Center in McKinney and Prosper, TX, Dr. Eric Silvers, Dr. Christopher Witt, Dr. Melissa Sgro, and Dr. Garrett Nelson specialize in treating ingrown toenails, a common but painful foot condition. While many cases respond well to conservative care, some require surgical treatment for lasting relief.
Recognizing the Signs of an Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the flesh around it, causing inflammation, swelling, and pain. While it happens most frequently with the big toe, any toe can be affected. It is characterized by redness, pain when walking or shoe-wearing, and drainage if the site has become infected.
If untreated, ingrown toenails worsen, causing long-term pain or ongoing infection. That is why you need to take action early enough.
Conservative Management vs. Surgery
Mild or early cases can be managed conservatively. These involve warm soaks, local or systemic antibiotics if infection is noted, and meticulous trimming of the nail edges. Even wearing open-toe shoes or shoes that fit well can decrease pressure and facilitate healing.
But if your symptoms persist or recur, surgery may be the most effective option. You should consider surgical treatment if:
- Pain is severe or prohibits walking
- There are repeated infections or drainage
- You've had repeated ingrown toenails in the same toe
- You have a condition, such as diabetes, that puts you at greater risk for complications
What to Expect from Ingrown Toenail Surgery
Surgery for ingrown toenails is generally done in the office under local anesthesia. The most frequent procedure is partial nail avulsion, which removes the ingrown nail border. For chronic ingrown nails, a matrixectomy is sometimes performed. That is, the nail root (matrix) is treated so that the problematic part of the nail will not grow anymore.
These quick, effective procedures allow for a relatively fast recovery. Most patients can return to regular activities within a few days, with minimal discomfort after the procedure.
Schedule Your Care in McKinney or Prosper
Don't wait for expert care if you're dealing with painful or recurring ingrown toenails. Dr. Eric Silvers, Dr. Christopher Witt, Dr. Melissa Sgro, and Dr. Garrett Nelson at Advanced Foot and Ankle Center provide conservative and surgical treatments tailored to your needs. Call (972) 542-2155 to schedule an appointment in McKinney or Prosper, TX.