Ingrown Toenail Treatment

At CityMed, our experienced GPs provide effective ingrown toenail minor surgical procedures — performed on-site in our accredited Auckland clinic. We provide one one-stop assessment and treatment for the ingrown toenail problem.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe and can become severe if not treated properly, especially in people with diabetes or poor circulation.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical treatment at CityMed if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain, redness, or swelling
• Pus or signs of infection
• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
• The problem keeps coming back
• You have diabetes, nerve loss, or poor circulation
• Home care hasn’t worked after several days

Avoid trying to cut the nail or dig it out yourself — this can worsen infection or cause permanent nail problems.

Treatment Options at CityMed

There are different treatment options depending on the severity of your condition:

1) Conservative Medical Care (Non-Surgical Relief)

Used for mild to moderate cases or early infections.

• Warm water & antiseptic soaks
• Cotton or splinting to elevate the nail edge
• Antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics when required
• Protective dressings and footwear advice

Ideal for: First-time ingrown toenails or mild symptoms.

2) Permanent Solution (For Recurring Cases)

For repeated or long-term ingrown toenails, CityMed offers:

• Wedge resection and Partial matrixectomy

 Local nerve block applied to ensure painless experience

The affected side of toenail will be resected

Infection and pus drained and cleaned

The nail matrix of the affected site removed to prevent recurrence

A haemostatic suture placed to help healing

Protective dressing

Total procedure time:  45 minutes

This permanent option reduces future pain, infection, and nail deformity, particularly for high-risk patients or chronic cases.

Diabetic & High-Risk Patient Care

Patients with diabetes, nerve damage, or circulation problems require extra care to prevent serious complications. Unlike many clinics, CityMed has experienced doctors trained to safely treat high-risk patients.
We’ll assess your circulation and wound risk before deciding on the safest treatment.

FAQs

Does ingrown toenail treatment hurt?

No. Minor procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic, making the treatment pain-free. You may have mild tenderness afterward, but most patients are comfortable the same day.

Will I be able to walk after treatment?

Most people walk out of the clinic after the procedure wearing comfortable, open footwear (eg , jandals ).  But the foot should be elevated as much as possible for 2 days post-procedure.

How long does recovery take?

Simple cases may take a few days. Minor surgery typically heals within 2–3 weeks with normal daily activity.

Can the ingrown nail come back?

Yes, unless a partial matrixectomy is performed for recurring cases. This permanent solution reduces the chance of regrowth on the painful side of the nail.

Should I try home treatment?

Warm salt soaks can ease mild symptoms, but avoid cutting or digging the nail. If symptoms worsen, or you’re at high risk (e.g., diabetes), seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

Get Fast, Safe Treatment at CityMed

Don’t wait for the pain or infection to worsen.
CityMed offers same-day appointments for relief and minor surgical treatment.

Book now for fast relief and safe ingrown toenail treatment.