A permanent solution for a recurring ingrown toenail is a procedure called a matrixectomy. During this procedure, Dr. Joel Foster removes the portion of the toenail that is growing into the skin and treats the corresponding part of the nail matrix—the tissue responsible for producing the nail. By preventing that portion of the nail from growing back, a matrixectomy can significantly reduce the risk of the same ingrown nail border returning.
The right treatment depends on the severity of your ingrown toenail and whether it is a recurring problem.
What is the Best Permanent Treatment for an Ingrown Toenail?
For mild or first-time ingrown toenails, permanent treatment may not be necessary. Dr. Foster may be able to carefully lift the nail and trim away the painful edge.
For more severe ingrown toenails, a temporary nail avulsion may be recommended. The toe is numbed with a local anesthetic, and the portion of the nail growing into the skin is removed. This can provide immediate relief and allows the underlying tissue to heal.
If the ingrown toenail keeps coming back, Dr. Foster may recommend a matrixectomy. After removing the ingrown portion of the nail, he applies a chemical to the corresponding portion of the nail matrix. This destroys that section of the matrix so the problematic nail border does not grow back.
What to Expect During a Matrixectomy
If a matrixectomy is recommended for a recurring ingrown toenail, Dr. Foster performs the procedure under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Here are the steps:
1. Preparation and Anesthesia
The toe is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Local anesthesia is administered at the base of the toe so you should not feel pain during the procedure.
2. Removal of the Ingrown Nail
Dr. Foster removes only the portion of the nail that is growing into the skin, leaving most of the nail intact for a natural appearance. The problematic nail edge is carefully separated and removed without cutting the surrounding skin.
3. Treating the Nail Matrix
A specialized chemical is applied to the corresponding portion of the nail matrix, which is the growth center of the nail. This is designed to prevent the problematic nail border from growing back. The area is then cleaned, and antibiotic ointment and a bandage are applied.
4. Recovery
As the toe heals, the skin naturally adjusts around the new nail edge. Because most of the nail remains intact, the result is typically natural-looking and cosmetically pleasing.
What If My Ingrown Toenail Is Infected?
An ingrown toenail can cause redness, swelling, pain, drainage, and other signs of infection. If Dr. Foster finds an infection, he may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic when appropriate, along with treatment for the underlying ingrown nail.
Treating the ingrown nail itself is important because simply addressing the infection does not correct the nail edge that is irritating the surrounding skin.
Can You Treat an Ingrown Toenail At Home?
If your condition is minor, conservative treatment at home may provide relief, particularly if you aren't experiencing significant discomfort or showing symptoms of an infection. You can try soaking your foot in warm water with soap, ensuring your footwear has plenty of room for your toes, and maintaining a clean environment around the nail.
It is critical to refrain from digging at or cutting the nail yourself, as this often aggravates the tissue and increases the risk of developing a serious infection.
While these home remedies can soothe a temporary issue, they do not offer a permanent fix for a nail that is structurally prone to growing into the surrounding skin.
When Should I See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail?
Consider seeing a podiatrist if your ingrown toenail is severely painful, infected, repeatedly comes back, or does not improve with conservative care. A podiatrist can determine whether you need simple nail care, partial nail removal, or a more definitive procedure such as a matrixectomy.
If you have recurring ingrown toenails, a permanent treatment may help you avoid repeatedly dealing with the same painful nail border. Dr. Foster will also provide instructions for caring for your toe after treatment and recommendations to help prevent future ingrown toenails.