When Toenails Turn Troublesome: Why Nail Surgery Could Be Your Best Step Forward

We rely on our feet every day,  whether it’s for daily commutes, workouts, or just keeping up with life’s pace. But when something as small as a nail becomes a problem, it can throw everything off balance. One of the most common complaints podiatrists see in the clinic is for ingrown, thickened, or painful toenails. If this sounds familiar, and you’ve tried every trick in the book, soaks, wide shoes, pharmacy remedies, but the problem keeps returning, you might be a candidate for minor nail surgery. It’s a simple, effective procedure with the power to transform quality of life in just one visit.

To shed light on one of the most common yet overlooked foot problems, we spoke with Liam Stapleton, Consultant Podiatrist and Specialist in Podiatric Sports Medicine. With decades of experience treating everyone from elite athletes to everyday walkers, Liam offers expert insight into a simple solution that could transform your daily life: minor nail surgery.

What Is Nail Surgery?

Nail surgery is a quick outpatient procedure carried out under local anaesthetic, most often to remove part or all of a troublesome toenail. It’s typically used to treat:

• Recurrent ingrown toenails
• Painful or thickened nails that don’t respond to conservative care
• Damaged nails due to trauma or fungal infection

Contrary to the name, it’s far from invasive. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward and painless the treatment is, especially compared to the months or years of discomfort they’ve endured.

What’s Involved in the Procedure?

After numbing the toe with a local anaesthetic, your podiatrist will remove the problematic section of nail (or the whole nail, in certain cases). To prevent the troublesome part from growing back, a mild chemical is often applied to the nail bed. The entire procedure takes less than 5 minutes, and most patients walk out of the clinic shortly afterwards.

Is Recovery Difficult?

Most people return to normal activities within a few days, though high-impact sports or swimming should wait until healing is complete. Aftercare is simple—keep the dressing clean and dry for the first few days, and attend a short online follow-up appointment as advised. You’ll receive full guidance before you leave the clinic.

The Benefits Go Beyond Relief

Aside from the obvious reduction in pain, nail surgery helps prevent infection, improves the appearance of the toe, and allows patients to get back to wearing the footwear they want, without fear of flare-ups. Many even say they wish they’d done it sooner.

Is It Right for You?

If you’re dealing with a persistent nail problem and conservative treatments aren’t working, minor nail surgery could be the solution. At our clinics in Kent and London, we offer same-week appointments, ensuring you can be seen quickly and professionally.

Don’t Let a Toenail Dictate Your Day

Whether it’s an ingrown edge that won’t settle or a thickened nail that causes constant pressure, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Nail surgery is a safe, effective option that could finally put your foot pain behind you.

About Mr Liam Stapleton

Liam Stapleton is a highly experienced Consultant Podiatrist and Specialist in Podiatric Sports Medicine, based in London. With over 15 years in clinical practice, he specialises in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle issues—particularly sports injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, and chronic nail problems. He holds multiple postgraduate qualifications, including in podiatric surgery and sports medicine, and is a Fellow of both the Royal College of Podiatry and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Liam is known for his expert use of diagnostic ultrasound, injection therapy, gait analysis, and minor surgical procedures, offering a comprehensive and advanced approach to foot health.

Book an appointment today at our specialist Harley street clinic, London.

Call 020 7079 200 or click here to send an online enquiry form.