Ingrown Toenail & Paronychia

Ingrown nails occur when the edge of a fingernail or toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly affecting the big toe. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail. These conditions often occur together and may cause pain, redness, swelling, discharge, and difficulty using the affected finger or toe.

What to expect

Before Your Surgery

  • Authorization will be arranged by the rooms if required.
  • Fasting is usually not required, as the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.
  • Most chronic medications may be continued.
  • Inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medication.

Day of Surgery

The procedure is performed under general/local anaesthesia. After nail treatment or drainage, a dressing is applied and post-procedure care instructions are provided.

Procedure

Treatment depends on the severity of inflammation or infection.

  • Mild cases may be managed conservatively with local care and antibiotics.
  • Persistent, painful, or infected cases usually require partial nail removal.
  • If pus is present, incision and drainage is performed.
  • The affected nail edge is removed under local anaesthesia.
  • The nail matrix may be treated to reduce recurrence.
  • The area is cleaned thoroughly and dressed.

Procedure Length

The procedure typically takes 20–40 minutes.

Possible Complications

  • Bleeding
  • Infection or recurrence
  • Delayed healing
  • Nail regrowth or deformity
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Unintended damage to surrounding structures
  • Complications are uncommon. Contact the rooms promptly if there is increasing pain, redness, swelling, discharge, or fever.

Duration of Hospital Stay

This is a day procedure, and patients are discharged the same day.

Discharge Instructions

  • Keep the dressing clean and dry. Clean daily as instructed
  • Elevate the affected finger or toe when possible.
  • Take prescribed pain medication or antibiotics as directed.
  • Avoid tight footwear or pressure on the affected area.
  • Monitor for signs of infection.

Return to Activities

  • Light activities may resume within 24–48 hours.
  • Avoid strenuous activity or pressure on the affected digit until healing.
  • Most patients can return to work within 3-14 days, depending on discomfort and job requirements.

A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled 1–2 weeks after the procedure to assess healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.