Ingrown Toenails
Safe effective relief from painful, infected or recurring ingrown toenails
At Footcare Scotland, our caring, experienced HCPC-registered Podiatrists focus on identifying the most appropriate and effective way to resolve your nail problem, whether that’s conservative podiatry care or nail surgery when necessary. We always aim to use the least invasive option that will safely relieve pain, restore comfort, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Do you have:
✔ Pain or tenderness at the nail edge
✔ Redness or swelling
✔ Infection (pus, bleeding, or worsening pain)
✔ Discomfort when wearing shoes
✔ Recurring issues with the same nail
Ingrown toenails don’t usually improve without treatment — and get worse over time.
If this sounds like you, we can help — book an appointment today.
First-Line Treatment
At your initial appointment, your Podiatrist will take a full medical history and discuss how the problem has been affecting you day to day. We will take time to understand your goals and expectations, then carefully examine your toe before outlining all suitable treatment options in clear straighforward terms.
For many patients, conservative podiatry care provides effective relief and is always considered first. Treatment may include:
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Careful removal of painful nail edges or spikes
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Reduction and management of thickened or damaged nails
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Advice on nail cutting, footwear and daily foot care
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Planned maintenance to prevent recurrence
Conservative care is often quick, low-risk and highly effective, particularly when nail problems are identified early. Many patients experience significant improvement without the need for surgery.
When Might Nail Surgery Be Recommended?
Nail surgery may be advised when conservative care has not provided lasting relief, or when the nail problem is unlikely to resolve without intervention. This includes situations where:
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An ingrown toenail is recurrent or persistently painful
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There is repeated infection, swelling or inflammation
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The nail is severely curved, deformed or embedded
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Ongoing pain affects walking, footwear or daily life
Surgery is considered a safe and effective long-term solution when simpler treatments are no longer suitable.
What Is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery is a minor procedure carried out under local anaesthetic, ensuring the toe is completely numb and comfortable during treatment.
Depending on your condition, this may involve:
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Removal of a small section of nail (partial nail surgery), or
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Removal of the entire nail (total nail surgery)
In many cases, a chemical treatment is applied to the nail bed to reduce the chance of regrowth and recurrence.
The appointment typically takes 45-60 minutes, and you can return home the same day in suitable footwear.
If you would like to understand the process in more detail, you can read our full Guide to Nail Surgery by clicking the link below.
What to Expect
Before Treatment
We carry out a full assessment, discuss all appropriate options, and ensure surgery is genuinely the best choice for you.
Your medical history, medications and healing factors are carefully considered.
During Treatment
Once the toe is numb, the problematic nail section is treated precisely and safely.
A sterile dressing is applied, and you’ll be able to walk out of the clinic.
After Treatment
You’ll receive clear aftercare instructions, including dressing changes, activity guidance and pain management advice.
Healing usually takes several weeks, with follow-up arranged where needed.
Benefits of Nail Surgery
✔️ Long-term resolution of recurrent nail pain
✔️ Reduced risk of repeated infection
✔️ Improved comfort in footwear
✔️ A definitive solution when conservative care is no longer effective
All benefits, risks and alternatives are explained clearly before any procedure is undertaken.
Is Nail Surgery Right for Me?
Nail surgery is suitable for many people following careful clinical assessment.
If surgery is not appropriate, we will continue with conservative care or explore alternative management strategies.
Our focus is always on safe, proportionate and patient-led care.
We have cured hundreds of people of their ingrown toenails. Here are just a few of examples:
"Fantastic service and professional care. 9yr old daughter with ingrown nail needed nail surgery. Without Footcare Scotland she would have been on a long NHS waiting list in significant pain. The problem was sorted within 7 days and after care included. Highly recommend"
LG, Edinburgh
"The care my daughter has received has been exemplary. So kind, gentle and explained everything. Really much appreciated as had bad experiences in the past. Outstanding service"
LS, Perth
"Very professional, very friendly, made my toe procedure almost a pleasure! Highly recommended."
MS, Perth
"After suffering with a painful ingrown toenail I was delighted that Alastair was able help to quickly resolve the issue. Professional and well presented clinic. I would highly recommend"
LM, Perth
Not Sure Which Option Is Right for You? That’s exactly what we’re here for.
👉 Book online 24/7 using the button below or call (01738) 718777 to speak with our friendly team.
We’ll assess your nail problem, explain your options clearly, and help you choose the most suitable solution for lasting comfort.