How Are Toenails Removed?
Toenails can be removed through several methods, depending on the reason for removal and the extent of the procedure. This might involve removing a portion of the nail or the entire nail.
- Partial Toenail Removal (Wedge Excision): This involves removing only the part of the toenail that's causing a problem, such as an ingrown toenail. A small portion of the nail and the underlying tissue is removed. Source: healthdirect.gov.au
- Complete Toenail Removal (Nail Avulsion): This procedure removes the entire toenail. Source: healthdirect.gov.au
- Chemical Toenail Removal: A podiatrist may use a chemical, such as phenol, to destroy the nail matrix, preventing regrowth. This is often referred to as "killing" the toenail. Source: parkview.com
The Surgical Procedure
Surgical toenail removal often takes place in a doctor's office. The process typically includes:
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic injection is given to numb the toe, preventing pain during the procedure. [Source: Kaiser Permanente, MyHealth Alberta](https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.surgical-nail-removal-for-fungal-nail-infections.hw268840, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw268840)
- Nail Separation: The doctor uses a tool to loosen the skin around the nail and separate it from the surrounding tissue. [Source: Kaiser Permanente, MyHealth Alberta](https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.surgical-nail-removal-for-fungal-nail-infections.hw268840, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw268840)
- Nail Removal: The diseased portion (or the entire nail) is removed. [Source: Kaiser Permanente, MyHealth Alberta](https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.surgical-nail-removal-for-fungal-nail-infections.hw268840, https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw268840)
Note: Post-operative care is crucial for proper healing. This may involve keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activity, and taking prescribed pain medication. Source: Modern Foot & Ankle Regrowth of the toenail, if removed completely, can take 12 to 18 months. Source: MyHealth Alberta
