1. Total Nail Avulsion
In this method, the entire toenail and the underlying nail bed is removed. It is performed when the nail has become thick or distorted and is pressing the surrounding toe skin. Removing toenail is completely safe, and there will be an indentation in the toenail area. The toe is wrapped with sterile bandages to provide protection from infection and stop bleeding. The patient must give rest to their foot, and keep it raised for 24 to 48 hours after the operation. Painkiller is provided to reduce pain.
2. Partial Nail Avulsion
This procedure is very much effective in treating ingrown toenails, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and toenail edges are removed to make it narrower. The puss is also drained, and phenol or laser is applied in the affected area. This prevents the nail from becoming ingrown toenail in the future. The antibiotics are also prescribed if the nail is infected, and the treatment area is bandaged. The patient must take proper rest to promote early healing.
After the surgical treatment, the patient needs to wear soft and spacious footwear and open-toed sandals.
After some time, the nails grow back. The doctor places a cotton piece on the nail, and it helps in preventing the nails from digging into the skin again.