Permanent Ingrown Toenail Removal: The Long-Term Solution for Pain-Free Feet

Few problems cause as much frustration as a recurring ingrown toenail. The sharp, stabbing pain with each step, the redness and swelling around the nail edge, and that constant worry that it might get infected — it is something many people quietly put up with for far too long.

At My Family Podiatry in Albany Creek, we see this problem almost daily. The good news is that you do not have to keep suffering. There is a safe, quick, and permanent fix that stops ingrown toenails from coming back.

This guide explains what causes recurring ingrown nails, what permanent removal involves, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails happen when the nail grows into the surrounding skin rather than straight ahead. The edge pierces or presses into the skin, causing inflammation, pain, and sometimes infection.

Common causes include:

• Improper nail trimming (cutting too short or rounding the edges)

• Tight shoes or socks that squeeze the toes together

• Curved or involuted nail shape (often genetic)

• Toe trauma such as stubbing or dropping something on the toe

• Excessive sweating or foot moisture that softens skin

• Rapid growth in teenagers where school shoes quickly become too small and lead to pressure

For some people, no matter how careful they are, the problem keeps coming back because of the natural shape of their nail or repeated damage to the nail root.

When Conservative Treatment Is Not Enough

Not every ingrown toenail needs surgery. Early or mild cases can often be managed conservatively.

At My Family Podiatry, we first assess whether non-surgical care may be appropriate. This can include:

• Gently lifting and removing the offending nail edge

• Cleaning and dressing the area to reduce infection

• Providing advice on footwear, hygiene, and nail trimming

However, for nails that keep recurring, have infection present, or are causing significant pain, conservative care usually only provides short-term relief. That is when we consider a permanent ingrown toenail removal, also known as a Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) with phenolisation.

What Is a Permanent Ingrown Toenail Removal?

A Partial Nail Avulsion is a minor, in-clinic procedure performed under local anaesthetic to permanently stop the edge of the nail that causes the problem from growing back.

The goal is to remove a small sliver of the side of the nail, not the whole nail, while keeping the rest of it looking natural and healthy.

Step-by-step, here is what happens:

1. Local anaesthetic injection – the toe is completely numbed.

2. Partial removal of the offending nail edge – the curved section that continually causes pain is carefully removed.

3. Application of phenol – a chemical applied to the nail root to prevent regrowth of that specific edge.

4. Dressing and aftercare – a sterile dressing is applied and aftercare instructions are given.

The procedure is quick, usually around 30 to 40 minutes, and pain-free thanks to the anaesthetic (the initial anaesthetic needle does sting a bit though).

What to Expect After the Procedure

After your appointment, you will be able to walk out of the clinic, though we recommend wearing open-toed or loose-fitting shoes for the rest of the day.

You will receive written aftercare instructions, but here is a summary of what to expect:

• Mild tenderness for the first one to two days once anaesthetic wears off

• A small amount of weeping from the site for the first week as the tissue heals

• Keep the toe clean and dry until your follow-up appointment

• Avoid tight footwear and strenuous activity for a short period

Most people return to normal daily activity within 24 to 48 hours, and healing is typically complete in three to six weeks.

Is It Really Permanent?

Yes.The chemical used, phenol, destroys the nail root cells responsible for growing the ingrown edge.

Success rates are extremely high, with around 95 to 98 percent effectiveness, meaning recurrence is very unlikely. For those with particularly severe or distorted nail shapes, the treatment can be repeated if needed, though that is rare.

The remaining nail continues to grow normally and looks almost identical to before the procedure, just slightly narrower on the treated side.

Can You Treat Both Sides of the Nail?

Yes, both sides can be treated during the same appointment if necessary. This is common for patients whose nails curve in on both edges, known as pincer or involuted nails. Treating both sides can prevent alternating flare-ups and ensure long-term comfort.

Managing Infection Before and After

If infection is already present, we may first advise the use of antiseptic treatment, saltwater soaks, and topical or oral antibiotics to reduce swelling and discharge before performing the procedure.

After the PNA, you will be given aftercare instructions to prevent infection. We will dress the toe with antiseptic ointment and a sterile dressing, and schedule a review for the next day. We will then follow up 1 week and 3 months later to ensure healing is on track.

The Results: Immediate and Lasting Relief

Most patients experience instant relief once the nail edge is removed. The throbbing, burning sensation that has been there for weeks or months disappears almost immediately.

Once healed, the nail looks natural and the pain does not come back. You can go back to normal footwear, sports, and daily life without worrying about another infection.

Why Choose My Family Podiatry for Ingrown Toenail Surgery

At My Family Podiatry, we perform this procedure regularly for patients across Albany Creek, Warner, Eatons Hill and surrounding suburbs of North Brisbane.

Here is what makes our approach different:

• Performed by qualified podiatrists with experience performing nail surgeries

• Gentle anaesthetic technique for a comfortable experience

• Clean, modern clinical environment

• Clear aftercare guidance and easy follow-up

• Permanent results with natural nail appearance

We also understand that some patients feel nervous about nail procedures. Our team takes the time to explain every step and answer questions so you feel at ease throughout the process.

When to Book an Appointment

You should seek professional care if:

• Pain has lasted more than a week

• The skin is red, swollen, or weeping

• You have had multiple infections

• You have tried cutting or soaking the nail but it keeps coming back

• You have diabetes or circulation issues

Leaving an ingrown toenail untreated increases your risk of infection, which can lead to more significant pain, delayed healing, and in rare cases, deeper tissue involvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the procedure painful?

No. Local anaesthetic completely numbs the area. You may feel mild pressure but no pain during the treatment.

How long does it take to heal?

Usually around three to six weeks, depending on your general health and activity level.

Will I need time off work?

Most people return to work or school the next day, provided they wear open or roomy shoes.

Can it grow back?

It is very unlikely. The phenol solution prevents regrowth in over 95 percent of cases.

Can you treat diabetic patients?

Yes, with additional precautions. We assess circulation and healing capacity before recommending any surgical procedure.

Book a Consultation

If you are dealing with recurring ingrown toenail pain, do not wait until it becomes infected again. Our podiatrists at My Family Podiatry Albany Creek provide same-week appointments to relieve pain and discuss permanent removal options.

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