Managing Pain and Discomfort After Ingrown Toenail Surgery

After ingrown toenail surgery, you should have minimum discomfort. Most people take paracetamol for 24 hours, but there is no significant pain relief required. It is typically a minor procedure if done correctly.

What to Expect After Ingrown Toenail Surgery

First 24 to 48 hours

You will maintain a dressing on the big toe. You can walk as normal, but the wound will be kept dry. The dressing will be removed after 48 hours and then you maintain daily saltwater bathing. Saltwater bathing for five minutes an hour.

The First Week

The first week you will try to wear loose footwear as much as possible to try to not impinge the area. You will have some weeping around the surgery site where the chemical is used to destroy the nail bed.

Week Two to Four Weeks Post-Surgery

At this stage the wound will have mostly dried, there may be a little bit of discharge and you should maintain a dressing until it’s dry. You should have no pain and can wear a range of shoes and return to gentle sports.

Pain Management Tips

Elevate for the first 24 hours, but you can walk on it 15 minutes an hour. This will help any pain management. It shouldn’t be very painful.

Precautions After Surgery

Precautions include not getting wet in dirty water or avoiding sports for the first two weeks.

Frequently asked questions

Q. How long is the recovery time for ingrown toenail surgery?

A. Typically three weeks, but you remain mobile through the whole process and do not need to take time off work or school.

Q. How do you relieve pain after ingrown toenail removal?

A. 24 hours of pain relief with paracetamol is sufficient in 99% of cases.

Q. How do you know if your toe is infected after ingrown toenail surgery?

A. If you have increasing pain after the first 24 hours and this is not relieved with painkillers, then you should see a specialist, especially if you have a lot of discharge. Some discharge is normal due to the chemical burn.

Q. How do you get rid of throbbing toenail pain?

A. Bathing in salt water will help get rid of any residue and keep the wound clean and this should help.

Q. What can I do to manage the pain at home?

A. Rest and take painkillers for the first 24 hours should be sufficient in most cases.