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Same ingrown edge, again and again?
Coming in expecting surgery doesn't mean you'll need it
Ingrown toenail surgery in Burwood
Ingrown toenail surgery (partial toenail removal) usually removes only the problem edge, under local anaesthetic, and generally needs no stitches. It's considered when the same edge keeps coming back despite in-clinic care. Coming in expecting surgery doesn't mean you'll need it: we assess first, and any procedure is quoted at your consultation.
How we can help at Burwood Podiatry
Surgery is only one option. We start with the gentlest step that suits your toe; the aim is shoes, sport and sleep without that sore edge.
- Gentle in-clinic care of the nail edge, often without a needle and with no twisting, turning or pulling: ingrown toenails
- Cutting and home-care advice so it's less likely to come back: why it keeps coming back
- Partial nail removal under local anaesthetic when the same edge keeps returning, with dressings and review visits
- Routine nail care if your nails are hard to manage: general podiatry
What happens at your appointment
Nail surgery starts with a standard assessment appointment; the procedure itself is booked separately and can take longer than an hour.
Check
We confirm the plan, check your health and medicines again, and answer your questions.
Numb
Local anaesthetic near the base of the toe; we test it's numb before starting.
Remove
Usually only the problem edge is removed, and that edge of the nail bed is treated to discourage regrowth.
Dress
We dress the toe, show you how to redress it at home, and book your review.
Before and after your visit
- Before: eat normally, bring or wear a roomy open shoe, arrange a lift home and leave nail polish off that toe
- Tell us about blood thinners, diabetes, circulation problems, any reaction to local anaesthetic, or pregnancy
- Rest with your foot up for the rest of the day; the toe may ache once the numbness wears off
- Keep the dressing clean and dry, and redress the toe the way we show you
- Wear roomy, open or soft shoes for the first weeks
- Avoid swimming until it has healed
- Call us if it's getting more painful, red or swollen rather than less
Is it right for me?
- The same nail edge keeps coming back despite in-clinic care
- We check circulation, diabetes, blood thinners, allergies and pregnancy first
- If surgery isn't the right step yet, we start with gentler care of the edge, and liaise with your GP if needed
After nail surgery, spreading redness, fever, feeling unwell, or bleeding that won't stop with firm pressure needs same-day medical care. Emergency, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale or blue? Call 000.
Nail surgery questions
Why does the same ingrown toenail edge keep coming back?
Usually because the nail edge is still pressing into the skin, from nail shape, trimming or tight shoes. In-clinic care and trimming advice come first; if the same edge keeps returning, partial nail removal under local anaesthetic is an option to discuss, and you can take time to decide.
How much does ingrown toenail surgery cost?
It's quoted at your consultation, with the full price given before anything is booked, including whether dressings and review visits are included. The assessment is a standard 30-minute appointment: $112 with Jasem, or $162 with Jonathan ($179 on Saturdays). Fees and rebates
Will ingrown toenail surgery hurt?
The injection near the base of the toe stings briefly, then numbs it over several minutes. Worried about needles or nervous about the procedure? Tell us when you book or on the day: we'll explain each step before we start, and you can ask us to pause and explain at any point when it's safe to.
Is the whole nail removed?
Usually only the narrow strip that's digging in, so the nail becomes a little narrower. Occasionally, where the whole nail is the problem, the entire nail is treated. We talk through how the nail is likely to look before you decide.
Does the nail grow back after surgery?
Usually a chemical (phenol) is applied to that edge of the nail bed to discourage the same strip regrowing. It doesn't always work: a treated edge can regrow and may need further treatment. We discuss this before you decide.
How long does the appointment take?
Nail surgery appointments can take longer than an hour. They start with an assessment, not a procedure booking, so the first step is a standard appointment.
What should I do before nail surgery?
Eat normally (it's a local anaesthetic, so no fasting), wear or bring a roomy open shoe, arrange a lift home and leave nail polish off that toe. Tell us about blood thinners, diabetes, circulation problems, any reaction to local anaesthetic, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
How long does it take to heal?
Healing takes several weeks, and longer for some people, depending on the procedure, your circulation and your health. We review the toe and advise when to increase activity. Time off work depends on your job and footwear.
When can I swim, run or play sport after nail surgery?
Avoid swimming until the wound has healed. Running and sports that might knock the toe wait until it has healed and your podiatrist has advised you.
Do I need a referral for nail surgery?
No. Book a standard appointment first; we assess the toe and quote any procedure at that visit.
Can I claim nail surgery on my health fund?
Check your level of cover with your health fund first; if podiatry extras apply, we can claim on the spot with HICAPS.
Where to next
Sources
Reviewed by Burwood Podiatry · November 2026