Ingrown toenails can be incredibly painful and, if left untreated, can lead to infection and further complications. One of the effective interventions that Cardiff chiropodists employ is the removal of ingrown toenails. This minor surgical procedure aims to alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and prevent potential infections. Here's an in-depth look at the ingrown toenail removal process:

Assessment and Diagnosis

The first step in ingrown toenail removal is a thorough assessment and diagnosis by a Cardiff chiropodist. They will examine the affected toenail, assess the severity of the ingrown nail, and determine the appropriate course of action. The assessment also involves evaluating the overall Ingrown toenail removal health of the patient's foot and identifying any potential risk factors.

Anesthesia

Before the removal procedure begins, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area around the ingrown toenail. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Nail Removal

Once the area is numb, the chiropodist carefully and skillfully removes the ingrown portion of the toenail. This may involve trimming the nail, lifting the ingrown edge, or, in more severe cases, partially removing the nail. The goal is to relieve pressure, prevent further growth into the skin, and alleviate pain.

Wound Care and Dressing

After the ingrown toenail is removed, the chiropodist cleans the area to prevent infection. Depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail and the procedure performed, they may apply an antiseptic and dress the wound with a sterile bandage.