A safe, routine procedure performed in under an hour. Local anaesthetic, minimal downtime, and the option of a permanent fix so it never comes back.
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. Left untreated, it can become painful, inflamed, and infected — but it's very treatable.
The nail edge curves or grows downward, cutting into the nail bed on one or both sides — causing pain that ranges from mild to debilitating.
Whether it's genetics, curved nails, tight shoes, or how you cut your nails — our podiatrists get to the root of it and fix it properly.
With phenolisation, we can prevent the nail from ever growing back in that spot — giving you lasting relief with around 90% effectiveness.
Ingrown toenails can be caused by a range of factors. Understanding the cause helps us choose the right treatment — and prevent them from coming back.
Naturally curved or involuted nails run in families. If your parents had ingrown toenails, there's a good chance you will too.
Tight, narrow, or ill-fitting shoes compress the toes and push the nail into the surrounding skin over time.
Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow into the skin rather than forward and clear.
Nails with excessive curvature naturally create pressure on the nail bed, making ingrowth more likely — especially under load.
Onychophagia — picking or tearing nails rather than cutting them — leaves jagged edges that catch and dig into the skin.
A stubbed toe, dropped object, or repeated microtrauma (like running) can alter how the nail grows going forward.
Wear open-toe shoes to your appointment — you'll need them for the dressing after the procedure.
Arrange a lift home — it's advisable not to drive following an anaesthetic to the toe.
Plan to rest at home post-procedure, with your foot elevated where possible. No big plans for the afternoon!
Blood thinners? Please let your podiatrist know before the procedure — important for your safety.
For post-op pain, Panadol is recommended. Avoid aspirin — it can increase bleeding.
Pick up your supplies beforehand: warm water, salt, Betadine antiseptic, and sterile dressings.
The whole procedure is generally completed in under an hour. Here's exactly what to expect — no surprises.
The most uncomfortable part — a small needle injects local anaesthetic into both sides of the toe to make it completely numb. The numbness lasts approximately 1–3 hours. Once numb, you won't feel a thing.
A small rubber band is placed at the base of the toe to reduce blood flow to the area during the procedure — making everything cleaner and safer.
Using specialised instruments, the nail is separated from the nail bed. Depending on your situation, we remove just the impinging edge (partial nail avulsion) or the entire nail (total nail avulsion). The nail is cut down and removed from the base.
If we're opting to prevent regrowth, a chemical called phenol is applied to the nail matrix (the base where the nail grows from). This is approximately 90% effective at stopping that section of nail from growing back permanently.
The rubber band is removed to restore blood flow. The toe is then dressed with sterile bandages and antiseptic. You'll walk out in your open-toe shoes, good to go.
Nail surgery is a safe, routine procedure — but like any minor surgery, there are possible side effects to be aware of. Your podiatrist will discuss these with you before you consent.
Nail Re-growth
Infection
Post-op Pain
Nail Distortion
Phenol Burn
Good aftercare is what separates a smooth recovery from a frustrating one. Follow these steps daily until your review appointment with your podiatrist.
No hidden fees. No surprises on the day. Here's exactly what nail surgery costs at Sole Podiatry.
Many private health funds cover a portion of nail surgery costs. We process HICAPS on the spot so you only pay the gap. Bring your health fund card on the day.
Re-dressing appointments are available as required and billed at standard or brief appointment rates. Your podiatrist will advise how many you'll need based on your healing progress.