Nail Removal Surgery
Nail removal surgery (nail avulsion or nail ablation) is a minor surgical procedure used to treat persistent nail problems that do not respond to conservative management. The most common indication is an ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis), where the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and infection. Dr. Parvati R. Falegaonkar performs nail procedures with precision and care to provide lasting relief.
Common Indications
- Ingrown toenail – most common, especially of the big toe
- Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) – severely thickened, distorted, and infected nails
- Nail trauma – damaged nail with subungual hematoma or nail bed injury
- Subungual exostosis – bony growth under the nail causing pain
- Paronychia – recurrent infection of the nail fold
- Onychogryphosis – ram's horn nail deformity
Types of Nail Procedures
Partial Nail Avulsion
Only the ingrown edge of the nail is removed. Phenol or chemical cautery is applied to the nail matrix to prevent regrowth of that portion. This is the most common procedure for ingrown toenails.
Total Nail Avulsion
The entire nail plate is removed. May be needed for severely damaged or infected nails. The nail may or may not regrow depending on whether the matrix is destroyed.
Nail Bed Repair
Repair of nail bed lacerations following trauma to restore normal nail growth.
Procedure
Performed under local anesthesia (digital ring block):
- A tourniquet is applied at the base of the toe
- The nail or affected portion is separated from the nail bed and removed
- Phenol or surgical ablation of the nail matrix prevents regrowth if required
- The wound is dressed and instructions for home care are provided
Recovery
- Mild discomfort and swelling for a few days
- Daily wound dressing changes for 2–3 weeks
- Return to normal activities within a few days
- If the nail is preserved, full regrowth takes 3–6 months for toenails
Why Choose Dr. Parvati R. Falegaonkar?
- Experienced in all nail procedures
- Thorough technique to minimize recurrence of ingrown nail
- Painless procedure under effective local anesthesia
- Clear post-operative wound care guidance
Book a Consultation
If you are suffering from a painful ingrown toenail, persistent nail infection, or nail deformity, consult Dr. Parvati R. Falegaonkar for expert evaluation and effective surgical nail management.