Ingrown Nail Surgery
Quick Treatment of Ingrown Toenail
If you need nail surgery to treat your ingrown toenails. There is a simple in-office procedure that can be suggested to you. This procedure is called the phenol procedure or phenol matricectomy. It is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it a relatively quick and minimally invasive treatment option for ingrown toenails.
Phenol Treatment
During the phenol procedure, we begin by gently numbing the toe to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. We usually use cold spray on the toe beforehand so that you won’t feel the needle. Once the toe is numb, we carefully remove a small portion of the affected nail along the edge that is digging into the skin. Next, a chemical compound called phenol is applied to the nail matrix, which is the tissue responsible for producing the nail. The phenol effectively destroys the nail matrix cells, preventing the ingrown portion of the nail from future regrowth.
After applying the phenol, we use a sterile dressing or antibiotic ointment to cover the treated area and promote healing. In most cases, you can expect minor discomfort following the procedure, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and rest.
Adavantages
The phenol procedure offers several advantages as a treatment for ingrown toenails.
- It has a high success rate in preventing the recurrence of ingrown nails, providing long-term relief for patients.
- It targets the nail matrix directly, it preserves the overall appearance of the toenail and minimizes the risk of deformity.
With proper post-operative care and follow-up, patients can expect a relatively quick recovery and return to normal activities without the pain and discomfort associated with ingrown toenails. As with any surgical procedure, patients need to follow the post-operative instructions closely to ensure optimal outcomes and prevent complications.