Partial Nail Avulsion for Ingrown Nail
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you need to know about a partial nail avulsion:
A partial nail avulsion is a procedure to remove an ingrown nail. An ingrown nail is when the edge of your fingernail or toenail grows into the skin next to it.
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How to prepare for a partial nail avulsion:
Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for the procedure. Your provider may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. Your provider will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. You may need someone to drive you home and stay with you.
What will happen during a partial nail avulsion:
- You will be given local anesthesia around the nail to numb the area. Your healthcare provider will cut the nail along the edge that is growing into the skin. Your provider will remove the nail from your finger or toe. Your provider may apply a solution or small electric charge to your nail bed. This keeps the nail from growing into your skin again.
- You may need a matricectomy. This is when part of your nail matrix is destroyed so a small section of your nail stops growing. Your nail matrix is the area that your nail grows from. It is the pale or white color at the base of your nail. Most of the matrix cannot be seen because it is underneath your skin. A chemical, laser, or instrument may be used to destroy the nail matrix.
What will happen after a partial nail avulsion:
Your healthcare provider may put antibiotic ointment and a bandage on your finger or toe. Your provider may want to look at your finger or toe again within 24 hours after your procedure. You may have yellowish drainage for 2 to 6 weeks after your procedure.
Risks of a partial nail avulsion:
You may bleed more than expected or develop an infection. Your ingrown nail may happen again. You may have damage to surrounding tissue. Your nail may look disfigured or you may have a scar. You may develop a cyst or it make take longer than expected to heal.
Seek care immediately if:
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- You have a red streak running up your leg or arm.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- Your symptoms return.
- The nail is not better in 7 days.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Self-care:
- Soak your wound in warm water 2 times a day. Look for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or drainage. It may take up to 4 weeks to heal.
- Keep your nail area clean, dry, and covered. Put on a clean, new bandage as directed. Do not use an adhesive bandage. It may stick to the wound and cause pain when you remove it. Ask your healthcare provider what kind of bandage to use. Change your bandage when it gets wet or dirty.
- Wear tennis shoes or shoes that fit loosely for the first 2 weeks. Do not wear tight shoes or shoes with high heels. Do not run or do strenuous activity for 2 to 4 weeks.
- Elevate your hand or foot above the level of your heart as often as you can for 24 hours. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your hand or foot on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
- Ask when you can return to work, school, or your usual sports and activities.
Prevent another ingrown nail:
- Trim your nails straight across. Do not cut them too short. Do not tear your nails at the corners or pick at them. Lightly file the nail corners if you have sharp edges. Do not round your nails. Use clippers, not nail scissors.
- Keep your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands and feet with soap and water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Dry in between each toe. Do not put lotion between your toes.
- Inspect your nails daily. Look for signs of an ingrown nail. Manage problems early so the nail does not become infected.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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