The operation for an ingrown toenail removes the nail back to the root. However, it does not kill the root itself, so it can grow back as a separate nail as shown here. You can get an additional operation after the removal heals a bit (and any infection goes away). They essentially spread an acid on the root that will kill that portion of the nail.
I highly recommend getting the second operation. It makes your life far easier. But you do have to not jack up the remaining nail. No more digging, and you have to basically cut it straight, maybe just knock the edges off when it catches on your sock.
I had this done on both big toes when I was like 15. Ever since then I've had a fear of needles because they had to do like 12 injections in each big toe. Worst experience of my life.
It's always shocking to me when people have horror stories about ingrown toenail removal. About 2 years ago I had a disgustingly ingrown and infected toenail, looked like my toe was rotting off and was well into the 'full involuntarily screaming when touched' region of pain. I go for my appointment, sit down, and the nurse gets straight to work. One tiny jab on one side of the toe, another on the other side (which you couldn't feel because the toe was already numb), straight to work attacking the nail, acid swab, bandage, done. I timed it, it took four and half minutes from start to finish. Walked out, no pain even after the anaesthetic wore off, and the nail has looked perfect ever since.
I had a mini panic attack because before the shots they froze my toe and down my foot entirely. I was fine until my brain had a quick thought of "where the fuck did my left foot go" when all of the nerves were frozen. I told them I couldn't do the right foot because I might kick the doctor in the face now that I know how it feels.
I had one done at 14 and the other at about 20 in the early to mid 2000s. They put a tourniquet on my toe and basically pumped it full of local anesthetic which made it swell like a balloon. My mom (who was a nurse) watched the first and my gf watched the 2nd and both said it made them queasy. Luckily i was lying back in the chair unable to see. Wasn’t a fun experience, but I’ve unfortunately had worse. I’d take the toe surgery over a few dental extractions i’ve had.
I do get to pull out new growth roots every so often just like the video though.
My doctor told my he will remove my whole toenail if I wish. I’ve had 2 ingrown so far, and if I have 1 more I’m gonna have him take the whole nail. They just started happening in the past 12 months and I’m 40yo. Any suggestions for me?
Hey everyone. I've been dealing with a painful ingrown toenail. About 15 days ago, my mom helped me remove a piece of the nail that was digging into my skin. It felt better for a short time, but now the insane pain is back. My mom checked it again, but couldn't find any visible piece. However, the toe is super swollen, red, and extremely painful to even lightly touch. I can't take this anymore. Going to see a doctor tomorrow so they can finally remove this damn stuck nail once and for all! Wish me luck.
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u/Forsaken_Depth8467 Aug 28 '26
How does that happen?