Surgery for ingrown toenails may be recommended when pain, swelling, or infection surrounding the nail does not improve or recurs frequently. An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. Causes include improper nail trimming, toe injuries, or pressure from wearing tight shoes. When conservative care fails or the condition is worsened by diabetes or circulation problems, a podiatrist may suggest surgery to remove part or all of the ingrown toenail. After numbing the toe, the ingrown section is trimmed away, and, in some cases, the nail matrix is treated with a chemical or heated device to prevent regrowth. This helps relieve pressure and reduces the chance of the nail growing inward again. Although regrowth can take months, the procedure is generally effective. If you have a problematic ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment plan.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.