Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Chennai

Dealing with an ingrown toenail may seem like a small inconvenience at first, but for many patients, it quickly becomes a persistent source of pain and disruption to daily life—affecting how you walk, stand, wear shoes, or even sleep. What often starts as a slight curve of the nail digging into the skin can escalate into swelling, redness, throbbing pain, and in more severe cases, infection with pus and tissue overgrowth. I’ve treated numerous patients who underestimated the seriousness of this condition, only to find themselves unable to walk comfortably or continue with regular activities.

At Hayagriva Hospital in Chennai, I provide focused, personalized care for ingrown toenails, offering not just symptom relief but long-term solutions that prevent recurrence. With my background as a General and Laparoscopic Surgeon, and specific expertise in wound care and minor surgical procedures, I bring a level of precision and attentiveness to even the most seemingly minor concerns. My approach includes accurate diagnosis, patient education, and a step-by-step treatment plan—whether it’s simple conservative care like nail splinting and antibiotic therapy, or minor surgical interventions such as partial nail avulsion or matrixectomy. My goal is to not only address the current issue but to restore your comfort, prevent complications, and help you return to your daily routine with confidence and ease.

What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail, most often on the big toe, grows inward into the soft flesh surrounding it. This can result in pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes warmth or tenderness in the affected area. The condition can stem from several factors including improper trimming of nails (like cutting too short or rounding the corners), wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, repetitive pressure from activities like running, foot trauma, or a naturally curved nail shape passed down genetically. Initially, it may cause mild discomfort, but if left unattended, even basic walking or standing can become agonizing.

When not treated promptly, an ingrown toenail can progress to a more serious state. The embedded nail can irritate the skin further, leading to infection, drainage of pus, and development of granulation tissue (extra skin growth). This is especially concerning for people with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system, as they have a higher risk of complications like delayed healing, spread of infection, or even ulceration. In such cases, what begins as a small nail problem can escalate into a significant health threat. That’s why addressing an ingrown toenail early with proper care is crucial—not only to relieve immediate discomfort but to prevent larger, more invasive interventions down the line.

• Nail edge grows into skin
• Causes swelling, pain, and tenderness
• Can result from poor nail trimming or tight shoes
• Risk of infection if untreated
• More dangerous in diabetic patients

Common Symptoms

Most people begin to notice an ingrown toenail when a sharp, localized pain develops along the edge of the toenail—most often on the big toe. This pain typically intensifies while walking, standing for long periods, or wearing closed shoes. The surrounding skin may become red, puffy, and warm to the touch, signaling inflammation. As the nail continues to push into the skin, tenderness increases and the area becomes increasingly sensitive, especially with direct pressure or friction.

As the condition progresses, signs of infection may emerge—such as yellow or greenish pus, persistent drainage, or a dull throbbing sensation. One common but overlooked symptom is the formation of granulation tissue, where skin begins to grow over the nail edge. This not only makes the condition more painful but also harder to treat conservatively. In advanced stages, these symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making walking uncomfortable and even preventing restful sleep. Recognizing and addressing these early warning signs can help avoid more invasive procedures, preserve nail health, and speed up recovery.

• Persistent pain along the nail edge
• Redness, swelling, and warmth
• Drainage or pus around the toe
• Overgrowth of skin near the nail
• Discomfort while wearing shoes or walking

When is Surgery Needed?

While many ingrown toenails respond well to conservative treatments such as soaking, antibiotics, or nail lifts, some cases require minor surgical intervention. Surgery becomes necessary when there’s recurring infection, chronic pain, or repeated ingrown toenails that do not resolve with basic care.

The most common surgical option is partial nail avulsion, where the ingrown portion of the nail is removed under local anesthesia. In persistent or severe cases, a matrixectomy may be performed to permanently remove a portion of the nail root and prevent regrowth. These are quick, outpatient procedures with minimal downtime and high success rates.

• Infection persists or recurs
• Conservative treatments fail
• Nail deformity or overgrowth
• Chronic pain limits daily activity
• Repeated ingrown toenails

My Approach to Ingrown Toenail Treatment

When you come to me with an ingrown toenail, I start with a comprehensive clinical assessment to determine the severity and underlying causes. Not all cases require surgery — many can be resolved with guided home care, pressure relief, and targeted antibiotics.

If surgery is needed, I use minimally invasive techniques with proper local anesthesia to ensure a painless and precise procedure. I also focus on preserving the natural nail appearance whenever possible. Post-treatment, I provide a clear recovery plan along with preventive advice to reduce the chances of recurrence.

• Detailed examination and diagnosis
• Preference for non-surgical care initially
• Painless, precise surgical methods
• Natural nail preservation when feasible
• Clear follow-up and prevention guidance

Why Choose Me for This Treatment?

With over 500 successful surgical cases across general and laparoscopic specialties, I understand that even minor procedures require expertise and compassion. At Hayagriva Hospital, you receive personalized care tailored to your needs.

I regularly manage patients with diabetic foot complications, trauma, and chronic nail issues, allowing me to make informed, swift decisions in your treatment. My goal is not only to resolve the immediate problem but also to prevent its return and support your smooth recovery.

• 500+ successful surgical cases
• Extensive experience with diabetic foot care
• Individualized treatment plans
• Minimally invasive solutions
• Caring and approachable communication style

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’ve been silently enduring ingrown toenail pain or infection, relief is within reach. Most cases improve quickly with proper care, allowing you to walk pain-free within days.

Let’s work together to tackle your discomfort and keep it from coming back. At Hayagriva Hospital, I’m here to provide expert care with a personal touch — because even small procedures can make a big difference in your quality of life.