Ingrown Toenail Surgery: When to Seek Help and What Your Options Are

Foot pain can easily disrupt your daily life—and one of the most common culprits is an ingrown toenail. Left untreated, it can escalate from a minor irritation to intense pain, infection, and long-term discomfort.

At Cristina Varon Podiatry, I regularly treat patients in Bicester and Berkhamsted suffering from painful ingrown toenails. Whether you need advice on early-stage care or are considering ingrown toenail surgery, there are safe, effective treatments available to help you walk comfortably again.

In this post, I’ll cover what causes ingrown toenails, when to seek help, and what your surgical and non-surgical options are.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, leading to swelling, redness, and often infection. It usually affects the big toe but can occur on any toe.

Common Causes:

• Improper nail trimming

• Tight shoes

• Toe injury or trauma

• Hereditary nail shape

• Poor foot hygiene

If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or fluid around the toenail, it's time to seek professional advice. Delaying treatment can result in worsening symptoms and increase the likelihood you'll need ingrown toenail surgery.

When Is Ingrown Toenail Surgery Needed?

While mild cases can often be managed with simple care, ingrown toenail surgery becomes necessary when:

• The toenail becomes infected

• Pain persists or worsens

• The condition is recurring

• Non-surgical treatments have failed

Surgical intervention is safe, quick, and highly effective—especially when performed early.

Nail Surgery: A Permanent Fix for Ingrown Toenails

At Cristina Varon Podiatry, I offer minor toenail surgery under local anaesthetic. This involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail (a partial nail avulsion) and applying a chemical called phenol to the root to prevent regrowth.

Benefits of Ingrown Toenail Surgery:

• Permanent solution for recurring issues

• Procedure lasts less than 60 minutes

• Minimal discomfort during and after treatment

• Quick recovery—most return to normal activities in days

• Greatly reduces risk of future infection

Surgery is carried out in a clean, professional environment at both my Bicester and Berkhamsted clinics. If your ingrown toenail is causing regular problems, this is often the best and most lasting treatment.

Is Nail Bracing an Alternative?

Yes—nail bracing is a non-surgical solution for certain cases. A small brace is applied to the nail to gently lift the edges and guide proper growth.

Bracing is ideal if:

• It’s your first ingrown toenail

• There's no infection present

• You’re looking to avoid surgery

• You prefer a conservative, non-invasive option

However, for stubborn or recurring cases, ingrown toenail surgery remains the most reliable long-term solution.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between nail bracing and ingrown toenail surgery depends on your symptoms, nail history, and overall health.

Consider surgery if:

• You've had more than one ingrown toenail

• The area is infected or very painful

• You want a permanent solution

• You have underlying health issues (like diabetes) that need prompt care

Why Choose Cristina Varon Podiatry for Ingrown Toenail Surgery?

I provide expert, personalised care with high hygiene standards, clear communication, and a welcoming environment. Patients from Bicester and Berkhamsted trust me to relieve pain and restore their foot health—often through effective and lasting ingrown toenail surgery.

You’ll receive:

• Friendly, expert service

• A calm, clinical setting

• Honest advice tailored to your needs

• Ongoing care and recovery support

Book Your Ingrown Toenail Surgery Today

Don’t let an ingrown toenail keep you from staying active. If you’re in pain, experiencing recurring infections, or tired of short-term fixes, ingrown toenail surgery could be the solution.

Book your appointment at Cristina Varon Podiatry today, in Bicester or Berkhamsted, and take the first step towards permanent relief and healthier feet.