If you’re suffering from ingrown toenails, persistent nail infections, or painful nail deformities, you might be considering nail surgery as a long-term solution. At Colebrook Foot Clinic in Plymouth, we specialise in professional nail surgery, offering expert care with a focus on patient comfort and effective results.
What Is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery is a minor surgical procedure used to treat problem toenails, particularly ingrown toenails that don’t respond to conservative treatments. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, ensuring minimal discomfort while providing a permanent solution to recurring issues.
At Colebrook Foot Clinic, our experienced podiatrists perform:
- Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) – Removing a small section of the nail to relieve pressure and prevent regrowth.
- Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) – Removing the entire nail if it is severely damaged or infected.
- Phenolisation – Applying phenol to the nail bed to prevent regrowth, reducing the risk of future problems.
Signs You May Need Nail Surgery
You may be a candidate for nail surgery if you experience:
- Severe pain, swelling, or infection due to an ingrown toenail.
- Recurring nail problems that don’t improve with trimming or conservative treatments.
- Thickened, damaged, or fungal nails causing discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
- Pus or redness around the nail, indicating infection.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening pain and more severe infections, so early intervention is key.
Why Choose Colebrook Foot Clinic for Nail Surgery in Plymouth?
Here’s why we’re Plymouth’s go-to clinic for nail surgery:
- Expert Podiatrists – Our skilled team has years of experience performing nail surgery with excellent outcomes.
- Painless Procedures – Local anaesthetic ensures you feel no pain during the surgery.
- Fast Recovery – Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
- Comprehensive Aftercare – We provide clear aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
- Welcoming Environment – Our friendly team is here to support you before, during, and after your treatment.
- Renowned for working with nervous patients– We have a reputation with local GP’s for putting nervous patients at ease and our patient testimonials speak for themselves
What to Expect During Your Nail Surgery Appointment
1. Initial Consultation – We assess your condition, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions.
2. Local Anaesthetic – The toe is numbed to ensure a pain-free experience.
3. Nail Removal – The affected portion (or entire nail) is carefully removed.
4. Phenol Application (if needed) – This prevents regrowth and future issues.
5. Dressing & Aftercare – Your toe is dressed, and we provide guidance for a smooth recovery.
The procedure is quick, safe, and highly effective, with most patients experiencing instant relief from pain.
Aftercare Advice: What to Do After Nail Surgery
Following your nail surgery at Colebrook Foot Clinic, proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. Our podiatrists will provide you with full aftercare instructions, but here are some key points to keep in mind:
Avoid Driving After Surgery
Since local anaesthetic is used, you must not drive immediately after the procedure. The numbing effect can last for several hours, affecting your ability to operate a vehicle safely. We strongly recommend:
- Arranging alternative transport (a friend, family member, or taxi).
- Avoiding cycling or activities requiring full foot control.
No Alcohol on the Day of Surgery
To promote healing and reduce the risk of complications:
- Do not drink alcohol on the day of your surgery.
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours post-procedure.
Alcohol can thin the blood and increase swelling, which may slow the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Keep the Dressing Dry & Intact
- Your toe will be covered with a large sterile bandage, which must be kept dry for the first 24–48 hours.
- Avoid bathing, swimming, or soaking your feet—opt for a shallow shower instead.
- After 48 hours, we will provide guidance on how to change dressings and clean the area properly.
Wear Suitable Footwear
- Due to the large initial dressing, you may find it difficult to fit into regular shoes.
- We recommend wearing a flip-flop or an open-toe sandal to accommodate the bandage and prevent unnecessary pressure on the toe.
- Avoid tight-fitting shoes or socks that could restrict healing.
Your Follow-Up Redressing Appointment
A redressing appointment will be scheduled a few days after surgery, where:
- The large initial bandage will be removed.
- A smaller, more comfortable dressing will be applied.
- We will check the healing process and provide further aftercare instructions.
Take It Easy & Avoid Strenuous Activity
- Rest your foot as much as possible on the day of surgery.
- Keep your foot elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid intense physical activity, running, or heavy lifting for the first few days.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
While infections are rare, it’s important to watch for:
- Increased redness or swelling
- Persistent pain or throbbing
- Discharge or unusual odour from the wound
If you experience any of these, contact us immediately for advice.
Pain Management & Healing
- Any post-surgical discomfort is usually mild. You can take paracetamol if needed (avoid ibuprofen or aspirin unless advised).
- Keep the area clean and follow all dressing change instructions.
Book Your Nail Surgery Appointment Today
If you’re looking for nail surgery in Plymouth, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Colebrook Foot Clinic is here to help with expert care and long-term solutions.
- Call us today to book your consultation - 01752 341127
- Find us in Plymouth – Your trusted podiatry experts
Get back to pain-free walking with professional nail surgery at Colebrook Foot Clinic – because your feet deserve the best care.