An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin rather than over it. This causes pain, redness and swelling — and if left untreated can lead to infection and repeated flare-ups.
Ingrown toenails are one of the most common conditions we treat at our Richmond and Kensington clinics. The good news is that many cases can be resolved with conservative treatment, particularly when seen early — before surgery becomes necessary.
Common Causes
Tight or narrow footwear
Cutting nails too short or curved
Naturally curved nail shape
Injury or trauma to the nail
Pressure during sport or running
Hyperhidrosis (sweaty feet)
Genetic predisposition
Signs & Symptoms
Pain along the nail edge
Redness and swelling
Tenderness when touched or in shoes
Skin growing over the nail
Discharge or pus (if infected)
Granulation tissue (proud flesh)
Recurring pain despite home care
The earlier an ingrown toenail is treated, the more likely it is that conservative care will resolve the problem without the need for a procedure. Leaving it untreated often leads to increasing inflammation, infection and repeated flare-ups — which eventually may require nail surgery.
At The Functional Podiatrist, our approach is always conservative first. We will only recommend nail surgery when it is genuinely the best option for your long-term relief.
Step 01 — First line
Conservative Treatment
- Careful removal of the nail spike or edge causing irritation
- Reducing pressure on the inflamed skin
- Nail packing or bracing where appropriate
- Advice on correct nail cutting technique
- Footwear advice if shoe pressure is contributing
- Monitoring and follow-up if the nail needs time to grow out
£72 – £85
Assessment & treatment in the same appointment
Levi Ferris £72 · William Joyce £85
Step 02 — If required
Nail Surgery (PNA / TNA)
- Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) — removal of the offending nail edge only
- Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) — full nail removal in certain cases
- Performed under local anaesthetic — comfortable throughout
- Phenol applied to prevent regrowth of the problem edge
- Healing typically takes 3–5 weeks
- One follow-up appointment included
£325
Partial Nail Avulsion (includes one follow-up)
Additional toes: £125 each
For full pre- and post-operative information please read our Ingrown Toenail Surgery Guide and Post-Op Wound Care Guide.
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HCPC-registered podiatristsFully qualified and regulated — safe, professional care you can trust.
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Conservative care firstWe always aim to resolve the problem without surgery where possible.
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Nail surgery available when neededMinor procedures under local anaesthetic for lasting relief.
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Treatment at your first appointmentIn most cases we assess and treat at the same visit — no unnecessary waiting.
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Clear aftercare guidanceFull written and verbal instructions so you know exactly what to expect.
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Five-star patient reviewsConsistently rated 5.0 on Google by patients across Richmond and Kensington.
Do all ingrown toenails need surgery?
No. Many ingrown toenails settle with conservative treatment if seen early. We always try to resolve the problem without surgery first and will only recommend a procedure when it is genuinely the best option for lasting relief.
Can I be seen and treated on the same day?
In most cases yes. We combine the assessment and treatment in a single appointment so you leave feeling better without needing to come back for a separate treatment visit.
Is nail surgery painful?
The toe is numbed thoroughly with local anaesthetic before any procedure begins. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the treatment is. There may be some tenderness during healing but this is manageable with standard pain relief.
How long does the nail take to heal after surgery?
Most people heal fully in around 3–5 weeks, though this can vary depending on the procedure and individual healing. We will guide you through dressing changes and monitor your progress at a follow-up appointment included in the price.
Will the ingrown nail grow back after surgery?
When phenol is applied to the nail matrix as part of a Partial Nail Avulsion, the success rate for permanent removal of the offending nail edge is very high — typically over 95%. The rest of the nail is left intact and grows normally.
How can I prevent ingrown toenails recurring?
Cut nails straight across rather than curved, keep them at a moderate length, wear well-fitting footwear with enough room in the toe box, and keep feet clean and dry. Your podiatrist will give you personalised advice at your appointment.
Is this covered by health insurance?
Many private health insurers cover nail surgery. We work with Bupa, Aviva, WPA and others. Please check your policy before booking — some insurers require pre-authorisation. See our
Insurance page for details.
Book your ingrown toenail appointment
Richmond and Kensington clinics available. No referral needed — most cases treated at your first visit.
