Ingrown Toenail Surgery (Partial Nail Avulsion)
Gentle, walk-in walk-out Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) performed under local anaesthetic to provide lasting relief from recurrent or severe ingrown toenails.
About Ingrown Toenail Surgery (Partial Nail Avulsion)
When an ingrown toenail repeatedly becomes inflamed, infected, or is caused by a severely curved (involuted) nail border, conservative trimming may only provide temporary relief. A Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA) with chemical matrixectomy is a minor, sterile in-clinic procedure that removes only the narrow offending edge of the nail and treats the root cells of that narrow strip so it does not grow back into the skin.
Conditions Commonly Managed With This Service
Step-by-Step Clinical Process
1. Pre-Procedure Neurovascular & Safety Check
We assess your circulation, medical history, and toe anatomy to confirm suitability for minor nail surgery.
2. Local Digital Anaesthetic
The toe is numbed with local anaesthetic so you feel zero sharp pain during the procedure.
3. Narrow Nail Border Removal & Phenolisation
Only the 2–3 mm ingrown edge is gently released (no stitches or skin incisions required), and phenol is applied to the microscopic nail matrix corner to prevent regrowth.
4. Sterile Dressing & Follow-Up Care
A protective sterile dressing is applied, you walk out of the clinic, and we review your toe within 48–72 hours for redressing.
Private Health Insurance, HICAPS & Medicare
Itemised podiatric surgical codes are provided for Private Health Insurance Extras rebates via on-site HICAPS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my toenail look normal after a Partial Nail Avulsion?
Yes. Because only the narrow 2–3 mm edge tucked inside the skin fold is removed, the main nail plate remains in place and looks completely natural once healed—just slightly narrower.
Can I walk and return to work or school the next day?
You can walk out of the clinic immediately wearing an open-toed sandal or wide shoe. Most patients return to desk work or school the following day while avoiding swimming or contact sport during initial healing.