Yes, a nail plate can grow back, but it won't reattach if it's separated from the nail bed. Instead, a new nail will grow in its place. This process is slow, taking several months for a complete regrowth.
Understanding Nail Regrowth
The nail plate, the hard part of your nail, is produced by the nail matrix, located beneath the cuticle. If the nail matrix is undamaged, it will continue to produce new nail cells, resulting in the growth of a new nail plate. This detailed explanation of the nail matrix and its function is available here.
Several sources confirm that a detached nail will not reattach; instead, a new nail will grow. The time for complete regrowth varies, but it generally takes several months. Some estimates place the regrowth time at 3-6 months for fingernails https://www.healthline.com/health/what-causes-short-nail-beds-and-how-to-lengthen-them, while others suggest it could take a year or more to see significant progress https://www.reddit.com/r/RedditLaqueristas/comments/652q18/is_there_any_hope_for_me_will_my_nail_beds_ever/. The regrowth rate depends on factors like overall health and age.
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Nail Growth Rate: Fingernails grow approximately one-tenth of a millimeter per day https://www.medicinenet.com/can_a_nail_grow_back_if_removed/article.htm.
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Severity of Damage: The extent of damage to the nail matrix will affect regrowth. If the matrix is severely damaged, regrowth may be incomplete or slower https://glossnblinknails.ca/can-nail-beds-grow-back/.
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Medical Care: In cases of significant injury, proper medical treatment can improve the chances of healthy nail regrowth https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24734-nail-matrix.
Conclusion
The nail plate will not reattach if separated but will regrow from the nail matrix. This process is slow and depends on the extent of any damage.
