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lbliss | profile | all galleries >> Permanent Toenail Removal - the actual surgery! tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Permanent Toenail Removal - the actual surgery!

This is the right toenail. The left one was removed a few months ago and the recovery is documented in the next album.
Ingrown and painful. I've had to have the big toenail removed twice in the past. This time it's for good!
Ingrown and painful. I've had to have the big toenail removed twice in the past. This time it's for good!		 The left one was permanently removed 2 months earlier with excellent results.
The left one was permanently removed 2 months earlier with excellent results.		 supplies
supplies		 I HATE the needles!
I HATE the needles!
This is one of the main reasons I want the nail removed permanently. I never want to go thru this again.
This is one of the main reasons I want the nail removed permanently. I never want to go thru this again.		 5 blocks and still no success. .. SNAFU.
5 blocks and still no success. .. SNAFU.		 He goes for the tourniquet and marcaine.
He goes for the tourniquet and marcaine.		 and starts digging
and starts digging
for a while the local anesthetic works, but I need booster shots periodically as my body quickly metabolizes the drug.
for a while the local anesthetic works, but I need booster shots periodically as my body quickly metabolizes the drug.		 dig dig dig
dig dig dig		 finally coming free from its bed
finally coming free from its bed		 removal and debridement
removal and debridement
there's another thinner nail under the first
there's another thinner nail under the first		 here we go again!
here we go again!		 Actually, no one is holding onto that instrument.
Actually, no one is holding onto that instrument.		 Mmm....meaty.
Mmm....meaty.
too blurry to see, but he finds yet another idiot nail hiding under the bed!
too blurry to see, but he finds yet another idiot nail hiding under the bed!		 now we're happy! (but only because the marcaine is still working)
now we're happy! (but only because the marcaine is still working)		 vaseline protects the skin
vaseline protects the skin		 lots of protection....I asked him to burn the hell outa the nail bed so that sucker doesn't even THINK about growing back.
lots of protection....I asked him to "burn the hell outa the nail bed" so that sucker doesn't even THINK about growing back.
phenol burns the nail bed preventing regrowth
phenol burns the nail bed preventing regrowth		 (who is taking pictures? ....they must think me mad!)
(who is taking pictures? ....they must think me mad!)		 more more more
more more more		 eliminating the 3% chance of regrowth
eliminating the 3% chance of regrowth
bath time
bath time		 other than looking sore, it actually looks pretty good.
other than looking sore, it actually looks pretty good.		 pedicure?
pedicure?		 beefy....but done at last
beefy....but done at last
vaseline for the burn, which I've yet to feel (that comes later)
vaseline for the burn, which I've yet to feel (that comes later)		 bandage
bandage		 pressure dressing
pressure dressing		 a little blood but I'll make it to a work party right after this
a little blood but I'll make it to a work party right after this
well done. marcaine good.
well done. marcaine good.		 happy doc
happy doc		 everybody's happy
everybody's happy		 Thanks Dr. Markewych and his assistant, who also took most of the pictures. What sports!
Thanks Dr. Markewych and his assistant, who also took most of the pictures. What sports!
Addendum: I added this picture from April 2008 so you can see the long-term results of my toenail removal (read on below)
Addendum: I added this picture from April 2008 so you can see the long-term results of my toenail removal (read on below)

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I’m so excited! Thanks to Dr.lucky for bringing back my Ex-husband and brought great joy to me today! luckysolutiontempl@gmail.com is certainly the best spell caster online,if you need your Ex lover back fast!and his result is 100% guarantee.. After 12years of marriage, me and my husband has been into one quarrel or the other until he finally left me and moved to California to be with another woman. I felt my life was over and my kids thought they would never see their father again. i tried to be strong just for the kids but i could not control the pains that torments my heart, my heart was filled with sorrows and pains because i was really in love with my husband. Every day and night i think of him and always wish he would come back to me, I was really upset and i needed help, so i searched for help online and I came across a website that suggested that Dr lucky can help get ex back fast. So, I felt I should give him a try. I contacted him and he told me what to do and i did it then he did a (Love spell) for me. 28 hours later, my husband really called me and told me that he miss me and the kids so much, So Amazing!! So that was how he came back that same day,with lots of love and joy,and he apologized for his mistake,and for the pain he caused me and the kids. Then from that day,our Marriage was now stronger than how it were before, All thanks to Dr Unity. he is so powerful and i decided to share my story on the internet that Dr.lucky real and powerful spell caster who i will always pray to live long to help his children in the time of trouble, if you are here and you need your Ex back or your husband moved to another woman, do not cry anymore, contact this powerful spell caster now. Here’s his contact: Email him at: luckysolutiontemple@gmail.com , you can also call him or add him on Whats-app: +2348070980389
Harry Jams 02-Dec-2017 03:33


A big thanks to DR.oyinbo, who brought back my ex girlfriend. My name is Harry Jams, from UK. Last year, August 26th 2016, I proposed to my ex girlfriend and she agreed to marry me then we both planned for the wedding. Our wedding was to hold on September 30th. We had a little misunderstanding and she left me for another guy. I almost committed suicide; I never knew there was hope for me, a friend of mine would always advise me to be hopeful and that one day she will come back to me, Some times I will go to her house to beg her to come back to me because she really means a lot to me and I love her so much and she will ask me to leave her alone and I should never come to her house again. I found it really hard to fall in love with another girl, months passes by and I was waiting patiently for her to come back to me but in my heart I was still going through hell, there was a big hole in my heart.One morning I received a call from my friend and he told me to come to his house immediately, I quickly put on my clothes and ran to his house because I felt he was in trouble, when I got to he’s house, I met him on his computer system and I ask him what is the problem was, he said when he was browsing through the internet, he came across some testimonies on how a spell caster brought someone’s ex husband back. I was angry with him because he frightened me and now he’s telling about spell caster. I told him to forget about the matter because I never believed in spell casters, he asked me if I really want my ex girlfriend to come back to me and I said yes so he said I should give it a try because if you really need something that is very important to your life, then you go for it. I agreed to what he said and I took the spell casters email address and I emailed him, few minutes later he replied me and asked what can he do for me so I told him what I wanted and he asked me to do what ever he asked of me which I did. He told me not to worry that my ex girlfriend will come back crawling on her kneels asking for forgiveness as soon as he cast the spell so he cast the spell and the following day my ex girlfriend came back to me, right now I and my girlfriend are happy. This is the reason I decided to put it in writing so that anybody that is hopeless will find the reason to be hopeful. If you are in the same situation, DR.oyinbo is the right spell caster that will solve your problem . You can email him on: prophetpyinbojesus@gmail.com or you can call him at +2348074066640
Monica Brown 10-Nov-2017 06:47


How I Got My Husband Back...........
My Names is Monica Brown ,AM from United states .i never believed in love spells or magic until i met this spell caster once when i went to Africa in June last year on a business summit i meet a man called Dr oyinbo, is powerful he could help you cast a spells to bring back my love s gone misbehaving lover looking for some one to love you bring back lost money and magic money spell or spell for a good job i m now happy & a living testimony cos the man i had wanted to marry left me 4weeks before our wedding and my life was upside down cos our relationship has been on for 3 year i really loved him, but his mother was against me and he had no good paying job so when i met this spell caster, i told him what happened and explained the situation of things to him at first i was undecided,skeptical and doubtful, but i just gave it a try and in 6 days when i returned to taxes my boyfriend (is now my husband ) he called me by himself and came to me apologizing that everything had been settled with his mom and family and he got a new job interview so we should get married i didn’t believe it cos the spell caster only asked for my name and my boyfriends name and all i wanted him to do well we are happily married now and we are expecting our little kid and my husband also got a new job and our lives became much better in case anyone needs the spell caster for some help his email address: prophetoyinbojesus@gmail.com or you can call him at +2348074066640
JANICES WALLOCKS 10-Nov-2017 06:44


UNBELIEVABLE TESTIMONY ALL THANKS TO DR OYINBO YOU ARE THE BEST

MY NAME IS JANICES WALLOCKS FROM HOUSTON,TEXAS.I NEVER BELIEVED IN LOVE SPELLS OR MAGIC UNTIL I MET THIS SPELL CASTER ONCE WHEN I WENT TO AFRICA IN DECEMBER LAST YEAR ON A BUSINESS SUMMIT. HE IS REALLY POWERFUL AND COULD HELP CAST SPELLS TO BRING BACK ONE'S GONE,LOST,MISBEHAVING LOVER LOOKING FOR SOME ONE TO LOVE YOU, BRING BACK LOST MONEY AND MAGIC MONEY SPELL OR SPELL FOR A GOOD JOB.I'M NOW HAPPY & A LIVING TESTIMONY COS THE MAN I HAD WANTED TO MARRY LEFT ME 2 WEEKS BEFORE OUR WEDDING AND MY LIFE WAS UPSIDE DOWN COS OUR RELATIONSHIP HAS BEEN ON FOR 2YEARS... I REALLY LOVED HIM, BUT HIS MOTHER WAS AGAINST US AND HE HAD NO GOOD PAYING JOB. SO WHEN I MET THIS SPELL CASTER, I TOLD HIM WHAT HAPPENED AND EXPLAINED THE SITUATION OF THINGS TO HIM..AT FIRST I WAS UNDECIDED,SKEPTICAL AND DOUBTFUL, BUT I JUST GAVE IT A TRY. AND IN 7 DAYS WHEN I RETURNED TO TEXAS, MY BOYFRIEND (NOW HUSBAND) CALLED ME BY HIMSELF AND CAME TO ME APOLOGIZING THAT EVERYTHING HAD BEEN SETTLED WITH HIS MOM AND FAMILY AND HE GOT A NEW JOB INTERVIEW SO WE SHOULD GET MARRIED..I DIDN'T BELIEVE IT COS THE SPELL CASTER ONLY ASKED FOR MY NAME AND MY BOYFRIENDS NAME AND ALL I WANTED HIM TO DO... WELL WE ARE HAPPILY MARRIED NOW AND WE ARE EXPECTING OUR LITTLE KID,AND MY HUSBAND ALSO GOT THE NEW JOB AND OUR LIVES BECAME MUCH BETTER. IN CASE ANYONE NEEDS THE SPELL CASTER FOR SOME HELP, HIS EMAIL ADDRESS IS: prophetoyinbojesus@gmail.com ......HOPE HE HELPS YOU OUT. HURRY NOW AND CONTACT HIM NOW VIA EMAIL ADDRES>prophetoyinbojesus@gmail.com or you can call him at +2348074066640
Matthew Elijah 13-Aug-2017 08:23
An amazing testimony on a spell caster who brought my wife back to me.. My name is Matthew Elijah and I`m happily married to a lovely and caring wife,with two kids A very big problem occurred in my family seven months ago,between me and my wife so terrible that she took the case to court for a divorce she said that she never wanted to stay with me again,and that she did not love me anymore So she packed out of my house and made me and my children passed through severe pain. I tried all my possible means to get her back,after much begging,but all to no avail and she confirmed it that she has made her decision,and she never wanted to see me again. So on one evening,as i was coming back from work,i met an old friend of mine who asked of my wife So i explained every thing to her,so she told me that the only way i can get my wife back,is to visit a spell caster,because it has really worked for her too So i never believed in spell,but i had no other choice,than to follow her advice. Then she gave me the email address of the spell caster whom she visited.{hinduvoodoospellcaster@yahoo.com}. So the next morning,i sent a mail to the address she gave to me,and the spell caster assured me that i will get my wife back the next two days what an amazing statement!! I never believed,so he spoke with me,and told me everything that i needed to do. Within 48hours, So surprisingly, my wife who did not call me for the past seven months,gave me a call to inform me that she was coming back. So Amazing!! So that was how she came back that same day,with lots of love and joy,and she apologized for her mistake,and for the pain she caused me and my children. Then from that day,our relationship was now stronger than how it were before,by the help of a spell caster . So, i will advice you out there to kindly visit the same email address: hinduvoodoospellcaster@yahoo.com
maris 16-Oct-2016 09:45

I want to use this medium to tell the world about Dr EHIMARE, who helped me in getting my lover back with his powerful spell, my ex and i where having misunderstanding which led to our breakup in 2002 though i went to beg him several times to please forgive and accept me back because i knew i offend him but each time i went i always feel more deeply in pain and agony because he always walk out on me and would not want to listen to what i have to tell him but on one faithful day as i was browsing i came arcoss a testimony of a woman whose problem was worse than mine and yet Dr ehimare, helped her with his spell so i was happy and also contacted Dr ehimare, for help via email (drehimare@gmail.com or whastapp +2348062387084) and then told him my story but the only thing he said was that i will wipe your tear out with my spell so luckily for me everything want well just as he promised and right now i have got my fiance back and we are both living happily. there is nothing Dr Ehimare, can not do with his spell and just as promise myself i will keep testifying on the internet of how Dr Ehimare who helped me.Are your problems greater than mine or less i give you 100% guarantee that Dr ehimare, will put an end to it with his powerful spell, contact Dr ehimare, today to help you email: drehimare@gmail.com" or whatsapp; +2348062387084

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daytommy2002 10-Oct-2016 18:06
Hi just got back from surgery after removing my second toenail next to my large toenail. I had both my left and right large toenails permanently removed in 2010 and 2011 respectfully....with a recurrent left toenail removed in 2012. See my posting below....I will be posting my progress here in the next couple of weeks....
CP 30-Aug-2016 01:31
Try this method I acquired from the orient... Sand or shave the center or arch of the nail's surface in this way the nail's corners flex upwards during nail grow and no downward causing ingrown nails
Carrie 11-Aug-2016 10:50
Thank you for this post it has reassured me as I am having this done on both toes in 2 weeks! I have been living with getting ingrown nails every couple of months and it has got to the point that I can't even wear a pair of tights for one day without getting one. and I live in England so this is not good!!!
Re the horrible comment from David, if i were to bang my toe hard on something (*shudder*) the 'protection' of that nail would not be worth the ensuing pain I would get from another inevitable ingrown nail! I intend to paint mine on the rare days that are warm enough for sandals or else just smile and be glad that I'm free from ingrown toenail hell!
Guest 08-Jul-2016 12:00
I am nearly 50 - and for the past 40 years I have had to dig out my ingrown Big Toe Nails every few months - so over it.
I did not realize how easy it was to have it treated / removed forever - I think I will be seeing a doctor very soon to discuss this.
David Waters 12-Jun-2016 10:59
Toe nails are evolutionary left overs that are completely unnecessary.
David Waters 11-Jun-2016 15:50
I just had one big toe nails perm removed yesterday and so far I have felt nothing!
Guest 07-Jun-2016 12:15
Hi..I hv removed both my toe nail beds bout a week ago...now will the nail grow again..???
WOODY 01-Jun-2016 08:36
I had my left big toe nail removed 3 weeks ago,doc said it was bad...very thick,discolored etc. I was pleasantly surprised! Only had to take pain killers for 2 days. I had three weeks off work and I am back at work wearing steel toed boots and socks no problems. It is scabing nicely and will probobally be all healed in another 6 weeks doc says. I can notice a big difference already. Also an important thing...Doctor told me my shoes I was wearing were not wide enough for my feet so I went triple e and that has helped too!!
Guest 17-May-2016 13:56
I had both nails removed on my toes next to my great toes, I had pincer nails and they caused me a lot of probl ms and pain. I had a little problem with the first one because everyone seemed to back in to me and step on it. The second one I had removed 3 months later, it's healing just fine and I no longer have pain with those nails pinching my skin together and killing the skin under my toe. I'm now wearing polish on the first one that was removed, you can't tell that I have no nail.
Guest 10-May-2016 15:12
After nails are removed, skin hardened, then can you nail polish the skin. Do you have a picture?
MJH 05-Apr-2016 22:18
I'm a marathon runner and just had my second big toenail permanently removed by the same doc who did my first one. I'm quite happy with the results thus far. I just wanted to reply to "David"... Toenails are far from what defines someone's attractiveness. Most of the time toenails are covered up and people generally don't look at a person's feet first. Your comment makes no sense. It isn't dangerous to live without toenails. I don't really think they are there for anything particularly useful, but for aesthetic purposes. So, please stop trolling just to start a fight. To the author of this blog- thank you for sharing. I don't know anyone who has had to go through the issues I've had with ingrown toenails and I'm glad I found someone's personal experience. Good luck with your running!!!
Angelic 28-Mar-2016 18:40
David ur an idiot. That's cool for you but others like me who have diabetes and continue getting ingrowns even after I have had both big nails removed, they grew new ones and still grew into the side and caused infection. I cant risk it anymore. I can lose my foot. So i have to kill my nailbeds. Thats my only option.
woody 23-Feb-2016 15:21
Hearing good stories and bad...I guess it boils down to how good the surgeon is. I am lucky we have 90 days of sick leave for surgeries and 15 days of sick time per year for colds and flue so If I have problems I am covered Not really looking forward to having both big toe nails removed...oh well chop chop and for gods sake someone call me a toe truck...lol
Carole 07-Dec-2015 19:31
I had both my big toenails removed almost 6 weeks ago. I still cannot bear to wear any shoes so I am wearing flip flops or sandals and it is freezing. Both toes are still weeping and I have to change the dressing twice daily. The burning/numb ache is unbearable at times so I still have to take pain killers. I had one lot of antibiotics a couple of weeks after I had it done and I am now waiting on the results of swabs which the Podiatrist took last Friday. Apparently they have changed the strength of the chemical they use plus they are now told to leave the chemical on for a full 1 minute instead of 30 seconds. I had the nails removed on the advice of the Podiatrist. I had the sides removed of each of the nails a few years back and I also had the both nails removed on the toes next to the big toes but they all grew back whilst they were healing. I am just preying my toes heal soon as I cannot go back to work whilst they are weeping and I may lose my job!!
Abe 25-Nov-2015 11:30
David - you are wrong on literally every point.
David 20-Nov-2015 08:04
You're an attractive woman i don't see how you let your nails go i can't say i agree with your decision on killing the nailbed on both feet, you need that nail protection obviously the regret is there but you have resigned yourself to the fact its gone and you have found peace with the decision and moved on but you still have to live with it the rest of your life.
I disagree in principle with the podiatrists and the quick advice to kill nail beds i am glad i didnt listen to many and kill my nailbed i would be regret n in depression if i knew it would never grow back, its easy for others to say go ahead n do it because they wont have to live with the consequences of no protection for the toe when u bang it hard or stub it....i had many give me bad advice n i ignored them all both my big toes grew new ones out naturally regeneration THATS RIGHT REGENERATION, the body has the ability to use your genes to grow back and make new i won't listen to anyone or let anyone kill my nailbed no way not gonna happen a stupid PA telling me this is the best option is ignorant,once u take the whole nail off it will attempt to grow a new one, killing the nail bed makes absolutely no sense at all the podiatrist wants a quick fee and doesnt care about you really they can stick it i know my body and know it will grow a new nail back naturarly eom
Cando 25-Oct-2015 04:52
I am also wondering if I should do the permanent kill of the nail? How long will the nail bed remain sensitive? Can you still wear polish on just the skin? I heard that the nail remover is painful if you try to remove nail polish. What about shoes? Does the toe skin become hardened and I can wear any type of shoe? How long does that take?
Blueberry 232 08-Aug-2015 23:11
Well, I have 3 toenails that are infected with fungus & going to get it surgically removed in 2 days, but I'm not sure if I want to try & let my nails grow back & pray they don't get infected again or if I should chemical destroy the nails. What do you think?
Guest 22-Jul-2015 00:52
Had both my big toe nails removed yesterday.....I had dealt with ingrown toenails for several years.......I have a HUGE problem with people touching my feet, so going into the dr office made me sick at my stomach......yes, the shots were not easy to deal with, but only lasted a few minutes,,,,,,pulling the nails off took less time than the shots, and I am healing well already. Soaked my feet in Epsom salts today......they feel soooooo much better! If you are thinking about having this done, I suggest permanent removal, so they don't grow back and you have to do it all over again.......Piece of cake.......trust me!
leila 12-Jun-2015 21:17
I had my left toenail permanently removed about 5 years ago And have since never worn open toe shoes. I can without the pain the bugger caused but I now have serious confidence issues about my feet. Is there a procedure available to artificially or in other ways replace the toenail?? :(
Denise 07-Jun-2015 01:09
I had both of my big toenails removed also. It has now been 7 months and the other day I dropped an empty kitty litter container made of plastic in one of my toes. I went they the roof. It hurt so bad. When I wear closed toed shoes and my feet get warm, my toes get soft and they are tender. How long does this take to go away or will it ever? If they feel this way forever then it's not worth it. I am hoping that they will eventually toughen up.
Guest 02-Jun-2015 22:15
I'm having my big toenail removed next week, I've had an ingrown toenail on the left side of my left toe for over a year now, and in the past year, a second one has developed on the other side of the same nail,
So talking to my doctor, I decided getting the nail killed was the best idea.
Purely because I'm a teenager, and it's like having chains hold you back from doing things you should be able to do all the time.
Since this ingrown bugger came along, I've not been able to run, swim, rollerblade or climb properly.
So I'm very excited and relatively nervous to have the procedure done.
But reading the comments here, it gives me a good feeling,
I don't think I'm ever going to look back, I can just continue being a kid like I should.
And finally, I'll be able to go to comic-cons without feeling the pain in my toe.
:)
Guest 23-May-2015 18:43
I had both of my big toe nails removed permanently almost 3 weeks ago and had I know it was this uneventful I'd have done it years ago. Two days after I had it done I went to work and wore my steel toed boots with no pain at all. One week later I ran 10 miles and again no issues/pain. It still drains a bit but nothing to be worried about.
Guest 22-May-2015 19:36
scared having mine done next thursday big toe and little one :-(
mark 14-May-2015 12:56
i had both big toe nails removed 4 weeks ago, removal was painless and fine.. now however my right toe is burning and aching... was infected and have had antibiotics.. is it still infected or is redness and swollen normal after this procedure
Keller 06-May-2015 18:05
All of the toenails on my right foot have fungus and have thickened and some have blackened. In addition, I have injured the nails by kicking frozen dog feces to get them up. I think that is what wrecked the nails. The first one was after a horse stepped on my foot and wouldn't move. The nails are horrible. I need to have something done, but I'm terrified that the nail bed will be extremely sensitive and painful if the nails are removed.

Am I correct that this kind of procedure will take me to the end of my realm of tolerable pain?
Guest 07-Apr-2015 20:04
After repetitive toe nail removal of both my big toe nails due to ingrown nails, I decide to have the sides of my toenails permanently killed off so the nail wouldn't grow back. This was 20 years ago. Now, my toe nail grows slanted and I am very self conscious of the way it looks so I don't wear open toe shoes which I WISH I could. I've even had the nail salons try to shape it with acrylic but is looks a bit weird and have had fungus issues since water seeps under the acrylic. Does anyone know what I can do to make it look better or if there is some sort of plastic surgery that corrects this?
Chris 08-Mar-2015 22:42
I had my big toenail completl removed twice and now possibly a third, why wont it stop growin in, btw im 15
Guest 06-Mar-2015 15:54
When I had my big toe nail removed the end of the bone was cut off and the skin was folde over and stitched, making my toe shorter and rounded. It healed ok but looks odd.
Guest 04-Mar-2015 02:29
I had my first big toenail out 2 years ago, and had my second one yesterday. I am so relieved! I have had so many procedures to help my toes, including having by nail bed RIPPED out (so painful! and it really didn't help). This was the best decision I have ever made and worth every penny. Honestly, thinking about not having pain anymore in either feet makes me cry. I would recommend this to anyone with ingrown toenails. It's worth being able to live normally.
Guest 21-Feb-2015 08:08
I just wanted to share my story because I thought I was the only one who suffered so badly. I have had an ingrown toenail since I can remember. I got the surgery when I was really young but it came back. I decided to leave it for a couple of years thinking it would get better but it got worse so I had the surgery for the second time where the nail would eventually grow back. The needles were painful and as soon as he was wrapping my toes in bandages I felt the pain. So right after I went and got my prescription and went home. I was in pain for about 4 days and my feet couldn't touch my covers on my bed so it was very uncomfortable to sleep but I thought this will all be over soon and then I won't have to be in pain anymore. The doctor said there was a 90% chance that it wouldn't come back so I thought my chances were good. But they were not. A couple of months later I started noticing stuff growing out the side of my foot and I had no idea what it was so I did the wrong thing and left it. Now both my big toes are infected again and I have had enough. It's so bad it's hard to put socks and shoes on and I'm constantly worried if I hit it or if someone steps on it. My toe is throbbing as I type this. But good news is I am getting the toenail completely removed and I totally recommend this. Just get it over with and take the nail bed right off so you are guaranteed no more pain. I'm making an appointment to get it done and taking time off work and letting it properly heal this time! I've lived in pain for basically all my life and I am not doing it anymore! Good luck to everyone who is going through with the surgery and the people who deal with this problem.
Lee 07-Feb-2015 06:45
I had my two big toenails permanently removed on Dec 19, 2014. It's painful and I couldn't walk properly at beginning. I had to wear flip flop for one month, changed the gauze twice a day, a lot of juice coming out. I didn't soak my feet every day, once a week maybe. On Jan, 19, 2015, exactly one month, I tried to wear my shoes and went to Zumba class, everything is fine since then. So for me just took one month to get to normal. I just wish they would not grow back.
Guest 27-Dec-2014 05:47
I had my left big toenail removed five weeks ago. I could only wear one pair of shoes that didn't impede the bandage. Went back for check up at 3 1/2 weeks and the doctor said it looked great. He removed the nailed so it will not grow back. I asked about what I could do getting pedicures. He said to wait a few more weeks. I am wondering about a false toenail. I have heard of people doing this (very necessary for me when spring and summer come because I live in sandals and flip flops). Can anyone give me info on this?
Guest 20-Nov-2014 23:19
I just had my toenails removed due to fungus. Some comments below suggest not covering or the fungus will grow? And how long does it take to heal to walk around? Not permanent removal.
Pewe 04-Nov-2014 01:06
Had both of my big toe nails removed today.
The injections had a slight nipping sensation but there was no pain whatsoever from the removal procedure.
The anesthetic wore of 4 hours later (over 6 hours ago) and still no pain.
So apart from slight bleeding and the potential for the usual weeping during the healing process, a pretty successful pain free procedure so far (as long as no infection sets in I'm home and dry).

At 64 I just wish I'd had it done years ago.
Rita 31-Oct-2014 12:23
I had both big toe nails removed a week ago, its sensitive but seems like slowly healing. my only question is what dressing should I use? After surgery doctors put silver sponges that didn't stick to wound but I can find to buy these anywhere. Had some kind of surgical net used on burn wounds and shouldn't stick however they are, which means soaking toes in disinfected water every time i need to change the dressing and probably removing some of the healing skin. Any advice of non stick alternative?
Julie 19-Oct-2014 16:36
And how long do you wear the dressings for after double nail sugery and when will they be fully healed Thankyou Julie Montgomery
Guest 19-Oct-2014 16:33
Can I go on an exercise bike afterDouble Toe Nail Surgery, if so how long will it be Thank you Julie Montgomery
Laura Redmond 28-Sep-2014 01:51
Hey I'm wondering how long should you keep the bandage on I have mine took of Tuesday I wash and redress it every day when should I stop doing this and should it look yellow I've never had this done before so I don't. Know what it is like
sixtwo24-Aug-2014 18:42
This site does not allow for editing or updating of posts, so read my July 13 post first; this is an update of it...

Positive outcome! I'm at two months now since podiatrist permanently removed nails on my big & little toes on left foot. Big toe healing caused disruption of my normal routine during about 4 weeks of the healing process, but the scab came off a couple days ago and it now looks and feels great! (Little toe was a breeze, healed up a few weeks before the big one.) I'm back to fitness walking in regular shoes with no problems. So nice to be rid of those old thickened, discolored, disintegrating nails!

This thread has really helped me -- thanks Lisa, and all commenters.
wendy 23-Jul-2014 04:55
I had both my nails removed in June 14, not sure what im supposed to do, they said keep it covered for 8 weeks, they are still very sore and raw looking. the skin just under where the nail was if slightly swollen, is this normal or do i need to seek help.
can or should i take the bandages off now. I do soak them for 10 mins every day in salt water. as i was told im not to get them wet other than that.
i feel the after care is non existent. they just signed me off the same day as removal.
very worried about this. please help
sixtwo13-Jul-2014 16:41
I had two toenails permanently removed on my left foot, big toe and little toe, three weeks ago.

This thread was a big help to me in deciding to go ahead with it, so I thought I'd add my experience too. I acquired toenail fungus when doing 3x weekly water exercise at a health club over ten years ago. I tried everything to get rid of it -- except pills -- I realize liver risk would be statistically minimal, but I thought I'd feel silly if I damaged my liver for the sake of toenails. Multiple sources claim it's the dark, moist environment that promotes fungus, so I've worn flips, sandals, or gone barefoot for over ten years now, including as much as possible during winters -- didn't help. I tried debriding the nail bed clear down to the quick and applying various over the counter anti-fungal remedies, or Vicks, or tea tree oil, and so on.

My little toenail became about as thick as it was wide. My big toenail would get so thick that it caused painful pressure. I finally got tired enough of having to sand down my big toenail that I was ready to entertain the gruesome prospect of actually paying a doc to rip out my toenails with pliers and force acid into the bloody wounds! ;-)

I watched several YouTubes of the procedure, and researched as much as I could about it, including this forum. I'm pretty active, love my kickbike, so I was especially impressed by athletes who opted for prophylactic toenail removal and were glad they did.

The doc hung a little curtain so I couldn't see the carnage. The local shots hurt a bit, but no worse than dental shots in the jaw. The procedure itself was painless and uneventful. Doc used 89% Phenol acid to swab into nail bed to (hopefully) prevent regrowth. A bit of the acid ran down the outside of my little toe, eroding a small patch of flesh/skin. I was expecting the worst as the shots wore off, but to my amazement I had absolutely NO pain for the first 10 days! I'm self employed, so I was able to come home and put my foot up the first day, and soak & change the dressing twice a day for the first week and a half. But on day 11 my big toe became painful, not from the wound itself, but due to excessive blood pressure in my toe if my foot was downward. No pain if elevated, but intense pain as soon as I put my leg toward the floor, and my toe would turn pink from blood pressure. This went on for days. Meanwhile, the weeping wounds had pretty well scabbed over.

More internet research led to trying a compression dressing on my toe -- gauze and medical tape. It works great! Caution: do so at your own risk -- don't make it too tight or you'll impede circulation and damage your toe, perhaps irreparably (as in needing to amputate it). I tried four times before getting tightness "just right" to gently contain the swelling but without restricting bloodflow. It's loose enough that I can slide it on and off like a glove. But it has given me mobility back!

I'm antsy to exercise, but I think it will be weeks yet before I can try kickbiking. At present it's enough of a challenge just to accomplish daily routines of meal prep, errands, and basic getting around. Thankfully, no pain whatsoever at night. I'm new to this forum, so I don't know if it allows editing of posts, but if it does, I'll add updates as the healing progresses.
toria 14-May-2014 19:56
I had a complete toenail removal 2 days ago, the procedure itself is fine. Afterwards it throbs and the pain is sharp at times. I cannot dip the clutch to drive. I have had 2 days off post procedure, I work in as a community nurse which entails alot of driving, but truthfully don't think I can return this week due to the pain. Is there something wrong or is this normal ?
Guest 22-Apr-2014 03:09

I had my right big toenail removal last friday and had my one week followup today. Have anyone of you had a burning sensation on the back of your toe, on your skin?
Elizabeth P. 17-Mar-2014 14:08
My big toenails were removed over 20 years ago due to ingrown issues. The doc used a chemical that stopped any future growth. Does anyone know if growth can be 'turned' on again? I very much miss wearing open toes sandals etc. and would rather manage the ingrown nail issues rather than hide my toes.
cdiflor 14-Mar-2014 09:35
Just in case you come back, Elizabeth. Call the dr that removed it. If it IS infected, you need to get antibiotics. It could just be normal for your body, but you won't know until the doctor examines it. Probably not the news you wanted, but trust me, don't mess around with feet and not going back in.
Elizabeth 14-Mar-2014 03:57
Hi.. Um, I got my toenail removed about 1 month ago. Both sides on left toe, and left side on right toe, permanite. They're all still oozing and red, not sore, buy red, they're also growing crusties still. I'm sure it's infected, what do I do now?!
Patty 22-Feb-2014 00:26
I am shedule for big toenail remover in one week . i will be getting them both remove, my question is how much time off i will get from work, cause i work for ups and there alot of walking, climbing and standing .
Guest 25-Jan-2014 16:32
I had my big toenail permanently removed 5 weeks ago with the phenol acid method. It has been healing up great with no discomfort. Well just today I was looking at my toe and the nail is starting to grow back. My doctor said there was a 90% chance it would not grow back. (Pretty good odds so I thought). I have my last follow up appointment this Thursday, I'm sure there is nothing that can be done but let it grow back out and try again. :(
May Ann 19-Jan-2014 22:30
IN REPLY TO PRIOR POST asking for information on AFTER CARE..
Day 1 rest and elevation
Day 2 change the bandage...and soak
Two weeks; soak foot for 15 minutes in a warm tub of Epsom Salts..3 or 4 times a day.
There is no pain, just tender if touched. If chemical is applied to kill the nail from growing you will have slight draining the first two weeks. Toe will look red from the chemical doing its thing.
I wore a sandal for 2 weeks. then with a Band-Aid was able to get in a shoe on day 14.
I choose to keep a nonstick pad on toe and wrap in small layer of gauze the first week, the second week I went to a large coverage cloth Band-Aid.
Really, there is nothing to it and it feels so good to have the problem nail gone!
\The best to you and your procedure...if you are having one.
May Ann 19-Jan-2014 22:17
**I forgot to mention my nails were PINCER NAILS - usually inherited and very painful as they are curled under, which causes the ingrown nail pushing against the skin. This is a very common reason for the removal of the toenail.
May Ann 18-Jan-2014 21:38
If you are considering have this procedure - I want to give you a positive view and outcome from my experience. I have had very painful ingrown toenails on both big toes, ongoing. After seeing podiatrist last December we discussed it would be best to have toenail removed and chemical applied, as I would most likely have the chance of the same thing happening. Dec. 2013 I had my left toenail removed, and Jan 2014..just 2 weeks ago had my other foot done. It is so much worth it, I wish I would have had them both removed years ago! From walking in the Dr. office, the shots, having the mail removed and then bandaged, I was on my way out the door in 20 minutes. True, the 4- 6 shots are very uncomfortable and so hurt..but are over before you know it. The procedure is called surgery was one in the Dr. office. I felt nothing at all, zero pain. You go home with a small gauze bandage on your toe, so you need to wear an open toe sandal You are able to walk, drive...no problems. It is recommended you stay off it and elevate it for 24 hours,, which I did. On both of my toes, they never had any pain at all I did soak in Epsom Salt 4 times a day as directed. *As with any procedure there is a chance of infection, but a small chance...don't let that scare you away from having this done. The only sensation I would say I have is just sensitive if something rubs right on it. The pain daily before having the procedure done...is way worse than having the procedure.
There really is nothing to it. Get it done and walk pain free! Any questions please ask, I will reply. I know some people have had a bad experience and I am sorry for those cases....but I am sure the norm is more of a procedure/ healing process that was positive!
The only thing I would have done different would have to have them removed at the same time.
Guest 14-Jan-2014 06:45
I had a really bad ingrown nail for over 9 months that became very infected. The pain with it was horrible. The slightest tap or any pressure to it was too much to deal with.

I was born with ingrown nails so I've been dealing with them all my life and didn't think this was much different until I had told my mom about it and showed her my toe. She immediately wanted to make an appointment for me to see the doctor but I refused. This was around the 7th month of dealing with it. I tried and tried to fix it with Epsom salt soaks and lots of hydrogen peroxide. It helped a little bit but the infection was still there.

I finally agreed to go to the doctor so I got an appointment to see my family doctor. She gave me a prescription for antibiotics and said I needed to have a partial nail removal and recommended after the infection went away to get a complete removal of my nail. She sent me off to a podiatrist because of the infection who took care of it immediately.

I got four shots at first to numb everything up but could still feel everything so I got two more. After that I didn't pay attention but within 3 minutes it was over. The podiatrist also recommended that I have both toenails to removed on my big toes eventually. After going through the partial removal 4 weeks ago everything is healing nicely and the infection is gone. I wish I would have gone to the doctor earlier. The pain I went through just walking around was much more than the pain of the removal.

I'm nervous about the permanent removal because of those shots but that little amount of pain is worth it to never have an ingrown toenail again. I was feeling like I was the only person in the world this happens to seeing as no one else in my family gets them but, after reading a lot of these posts, my anxiety has gone down and I'm not as worried about the procedure for the permanent removal.

Good luck to all through your decisions and healing.
Guest 09-Jan-2014 01:06
I had ingrown toenails on both of my big toes. One of them was infected. After a course of antibiotics the podiatrist decided to remove both sides of the toenail on both toes. So I had a toenail still on both of my toes. This surgery took place in November and I was put to sleep in an operating room. Healing time wasn't terrible, just did the epsom salt soaks and wore slippers with bandaids. Well a month and a half later, 2 podiatrist visits, 6 emergency room visits and 5 different antibiotics I was admitted into the hospital with a severe infection and put on IV antibiotics. After being in the hospital for a week on antibiotics a different podiatrist decided surgery to remove both of my big toenails was the answer. I had an abscess so bad under one of them I almost lost my toe. I once again was in the operating room and put to sleep to get both big toenails removed. I had to stay in the hospital for 3 days after surgery to make sure the infection didn't resurface. I am home now and the pain is ridiculous!!! I'm walking on the sides of my feet so I don't have to put any pressure on my toes. I can't put shoes, socks or even slippers on. I haven't driven since the surgery was done. Its nuts!!! I am a very healthy, active 28 year old woman. Just a bad run of luck I guess. This surgery sucked!!!!
Alison Smith 10-Nov-2013 12:44
Had both big toenails permanently removed on Wednesday, back home within 1.5hrs. Not painful at all, injections were great although there seemed a lot of them. On needed a couple of painkillers but accidently banged toe and nearly went threw roof. No pain unless touched or hit :). Not looking forward to going back to work tho, scared someone may accidently stand on toes.
Irene Lewis 06-Nov-2013 08:51
Hi I just wanted to share with you all I had a block with my big toe I felt nothing I listened to my music the nail grew in again so I had to get it done again but again I never felt a thing, not I really need the other four done really done wearing shoes quite painful I have a rotten fungus it runs in my family how nice right god bless
Mandy 30-Oct-2013 15:18
Hi, my son had both his big toe nails and nail beds removed yesterday. He has some stitches and we have been told not to change his dressing until the stitches have to removed in 7 days. His toes would not stop bleeding yesterday and it was a good 3 hours after the procedure before he could come home. We have had some bleeding whilst at home but I am now worried about leaving a blood soaked dressing on his toes for 7 days. On a positive note my son is fine, said the op wasn't that painful and he is still pain free at the moment.
Lynn 10-Oct-2013 07:05
I've been reading up on moist wound healing. I was wondering if adding the Amerigel ointment and a bandage is enough to create the moist healing environment, and if not, would it instead be worth it to use some of the special bandages that are specifically created to promote moist wound healing? Does the healing process from toenail removal need to be healing in those specific moist wound bandages? (I'm curious to find out if they could help the healing process move more quickly for these toenail procedures.)

If anyone who's been through this before wants to chime in, I'll be forever grateful. :)

Take care all.
Lynn 10-Oct-2013 06:51
I had my toenail removed 10 days ago. It was due to a skin infection next to the toenail (called a "paronychia") that had managed to get underneath the nail itself, so I was shocked to find out my nail had to be removed right then and there in the office.

I wasn't given much information regarding aftercare, although I was in a lot of pain, so after being told my nail would grow back I was just trying not to pass out from the pain (having injections directly into my already swolen & tender skin infection... was oh-so-painful for me.)

I've been checking this page daily to see if any new tips come up for what to do during the healing process. I'm currently disabled due to a genetic condition that affects my collagen and skin (and wound healing time and the way my body forms scars, etc., called Ehler's Danlos Syndrome.) My feet, unfortunately, are not something I'm able to reach more than once every few days, due to hip and back problems caused by my EDS. I'm having real trouble getting the bandage changed and ointment (Amerigel) added once a day. I was wondering if there's any other way at all to get through this process with less bandage changes.

I saw Anna's post and had some hope that maybe if you have any tips or information on how you're treating the wound on your son, it would be really helpful for me to hear about another difficult case. I'd be so thrilled if you wouldn't mind letting me know how his healing is going along so far, and how often you're doing bandage changes (and are you soaking the toe, too? Or is that too much for him?) I'm not sure how common it is for there to be another nail left afterwards, but I personally think it's ridiculous that the doctor didn't make certain to remove everything during the procedure. I'm sorry to hear that he may have to repeat the procedure again in the future. :( I don't think you're over reacting one bit. I'd be livid!

Wishing everyone who visits this page the best. I'm going to continue to hope that my toe starts to heal more quickly so I don't have to check myself into a hospital to get my toe cared for. All of my regular chronic pain problems are making this process worse than I ever expected. I wish my podiatrist had a clue about my genetic disorder so I could find out how long this recovery's gonna end up taking me. Normally I take twice as long as a normal person to heal, but this is already such a long recovery from what I've read. Sending positive thoughts to all!
ray 08-Oct-2013 03:31
yesterday i went through this procedure,at first i was very nervous as i was thinking it gonna hurt me very much.But my doc. Assures me that its a minor surgery nd u will not feel the pain of removal of nail expect the injections of local anesthatic nd after that i was ready for the procedure nd within 10 min it ended nd i feeled very relaxed.so friends it is not that painful as it sounds..
anna 06-Oct-2013 03:16
We have a 17 year old special needs kid. Wears diapers and cannot talk. His nail on one of his beg toes kept getting ingrown and infected. Took him a few days ago to get it permanently removed. Because of his disability, for things like this he has to go to the hospital and given IV, anesthesia...etc. And Now I see he still has his toenail or there was another one underneath. I am SO MAD!!! I would think they look to make sure they remove all of them. And to put this kid through no eating after midnight, lie on the hospital bed for hours til he gets the anesthesia....etc...all of that again? I am very angry. So please take this as a lesson to make sure you request that the doctor make sure they look for all toenails that you have to be removed!! Or am I overreacting? Is this just really rare?
Guest 02-Oct-2013 12:35
I had a partial nail avulsion on my right big toe 4 weeks ago today. I was very nervous, especially after reading how painful the anaesthetising injections into the nail bed were and the recovery also being painful. In fact, once the injections were given, I felt as though I was going to pass out, but the assistant lowered the head of the treatment bed and I recovered very quickly. The podiatrist said that some people react to stress in this manner. Despite this, I hadn't felt any pain whilst my nail bed was injected and of course, once the numbness set in, never felt anything after that. I had an enormous bandage leaving the podiatrists surgery but went back the next day for re-dressing and the new one was really neat, allowing for me to wear regular trainers. I was instructed to replace the dressing every day (having washed my hands first) after cleansing it by pouring cooled salted boiled water over the wound...about a cupful. Told NOT to soak the foot in the boiled salted water. Had to dry the wound with paper towel before re-dressing with new bandage. I wasn't to shower for the first 2 days but was given a supply of thin rubber gloves to put on my foot when showering after the 2 days to ensure the toe remained dry. One week after the surgery, I returned to the podiatrist where my toe was examined. The podiatrist was pleased with how I'd tended my wound and said it was healing nicely. She re-dressed the toe and said I could now shower whenever I wanted provided I change the wet dressing afterwards. The crux to healing appeared to be to keep the toe dry at all times. I am experiencing some pain from the phenol burns - particularly when the bed covers are over my foot - that result from using the acid to prevent nail regrowth, but I believe that the occasional pain will resolve. I am expecting the area to fully scab soon as I am no longer applying dressings as the weeping has ceased, and that within the next 2 weeks I shall be able to return to 'spinning classes' at my local gym. I want to reassure everyone who is facing this experience that it's really not as painful as some say. I've taken about 4 pain killers in the last 4 weeks so that tells you something.
Guest 17-Sep-2013 13:42
Just had it done yesterday (Sept 16th) both big toes!!! Went with the Chiropodist instead of the GP or surgeon!!! My apt was at 11:00 I left the office at 11:20...... DONE!!! I am the biggest cry baby ever.... my anxiety going in was through the roof!!!! The 4 freezing needles pinched and burned....for a bout 3 seconds each!!!! After that...I didn't feel a thing!!! My freezing lasted longer than it does for most people.... that's normal for me.... Around 3 in the afternoon it started to come out and my feet felt weird... a little num ... a pressure like feeling!!! Took a couple of Aleve when I got home as advised and then another couple at bed time just to be on the safe side. And that's it!!!! On my was shortly to the 24 hr follow up and to have dressing changed!!!! Pleasantly surprised..... piece of cake!!!! Going back to work as a hairstylist tomorrow with dressings and open toes shoes!!!! Whewwwww glad that's over!!!!!
Staci 10-Sep-2013 01:21
I thought I would share my story as over the past year I have searched and searched for answers to my issues but never had any good luck and have felt like I am fumbling through this alone. In any event September of 2012 I had really bad ingrowns on both of my big toes. It was so bad that I could no longer stand the pain. I went to a general practitioner who advised me they were infected and the best way to handle it was to fully remove both toe nails. I was desperate to relieve the pain so I agreed. He started me on antibiotics and the next day I was back in his office having the procedure done. I did not have them burned. I wanted my big toe nails to grow back. I enjoy beautifully painted toes. I guess I am a tad vain that way. One of the few girly things I do for myself. After he performed the procedure he said I could go back to work if I wanted and that I could wear closed toe shoes the next day if I felt up to it. He told me my nail should be fully grown back in 3-6 months. In any event I didn't even make it a half hour out of his office and the anesthesia wore off. I was in agonizing pain. It felt like electric shocks pulsating through my feet and up my legs. He had given me a RX for Vicodine. I was taking it as prescribed but it was doing NOTHING to relieve the pain. My hubby has an RX for Percocet for back pain and he made me take one of those. NOTHING. I took another one and it dulled the pain just a little but not enough apparently as the next day I was vomiting from the pain. I did as instructed day two took a shower and soaked the bandage off. I soaked every day and did everything to the letter as far as taking care of the toes. I had scabs and very little healing for 6 months. I was in contact with my Dr. several times throughout this process and he assured me it was completely normal. I was in pain for 3 months. I could not wear closed toes shoes for 3 months and even after I had to go buy all new close toe shoes that had large wide tall toe boxes and I had to bandage the toes. I had to sleep for 3 months with my toes hanging off the end of the bed and had to make sure the blankets didn't even brush over the top of them as sheets hurt to touch them. 9 months later my nails finally start to grow but there is a hard white crust forming under the new nail. The nails are also growing wonky and pointing straight up in the air. Today it is now one year later and I went to a podiatrist as I know come fall I won't be able to wear closed toe shoes or socks due to the nails growing straight up in the air. He cut my nails back down to the cuticle level using nail trimmer and a drill. He gave me Urea cream and said that my nail bed had developed was amounted to scar tissue which has to be softened to allow the nail to grow and attach to the nail bed. He is telling me that my nail should take a year to grow back and that I should hopefully see good progress in 4 months with the Urea cream. If I am still not seeing good results in 4 months to come back to see him. It has been a nightmare and I never ever want to have to have my toenails removed ever again. I want to make sure they grow back right and do everything I can to make sure they don't ingrow again. Like I said I couldn't find anyone online who had suffered like I had or had such a long healing time like I had. I wanted to share for anyone else who might suffer like I did. Here I set one year from the procedure and am basically back at square one once again.
DM 26-Jul-2013 18:07
pookie I had my toenail remove approx 8 week ago seem to behave a little slow healing There isn't pain now just still slow leaping an the need for bandaids when i wearing shoe. was in the Dr. office he said looked good just takes time . Go back 9 15 hope it is healed by then!!!!
Dragon 13-Jun-2013 20:30
I have had my toenail removed temporarily twice before,
How is the pain in comparison to removing it temporarily??
I am scared after reading the comments
LG 02-Jun-2013 21:00
My last comment the nail has been removed temporary and not permanently
LG 02-Jun-2013 20:59
Has anyone had an infection in the nail bed? I had my toenail removed permanently in February to allow the puss to drain out and nail seems to be growing back but I am not convinced, my toe still seems a bit swollen and I have a constant slight ache. Is this normal when nails are growing back?
AC 01-Jun-2013 15:24
How long does it take after the surgery to just heal over, look like skin, and not be sore in full shoes ... 8-12 weeks? I'm on the 4 week mark and mine is still a little weepy, red, and itchy. But I can walk and move around just fine.
Amy Luke 31-May-2013 13:27
I'm going to have HALF on my nail removed because my chiropodist said that for younger girls they want to keep a little bit of the nail so I could still paint it if I want. I've never been able to do that! I'm 13, and TERRIFIED!!! I've never had an operation before and am not looking forward to my first! I am just hoping it isn't that painful... They are going to wait till after my holiday in Fuerteventura till they do the operation. They have to do it on each foot too! Double the pain. Will they do both at the same time, or separately, or do one then wait for it to heal and the do the other? URGH I am so frighted. My chiropodist is nice (even though I've only met her once) and she reassures me it will be worth the pain... Though I am not reassured I am still going to go ahead with the operation. They will burn the bed to prevent growth so at least it is a one time operation! Is it really as bad as I think and does it take a very long time?

Coming from a very worried 13 year old. :(
Guest 20-May-2013 08:25
I had my big toenail removed twice the second time we burnt the root of the nail so it wouldn't grow back due to a fungas.well one month later and here I am up at 3 am in a lot of pain shooting up my foot in the bone the nail bed was feeling better now its draining and red again could the fungas spread into foot ....help
Stubby 25-Apr-2013 20:40
Hi Antony,

I also did remove all my toenails by myself without anesthesy. I did one foot at time. At first I soaked the foot about 30 minutes in hot water, so the nails got softened. Then I pushed the nails off the nailbed. On the big toe it was sometimes a little hard, but when you get the beginning then the nail comes off very easy. Then I pulled the nails with pliers. There was not much bleeding and the wounds are dry after about 5 days.

I love the look of the nail less toes. Never holes in the socks again.... ;-)
The reason for me to remove the toenails was that I had to grow them long in order to get no ingrown nails. And I always wanted to have nice stubby toes without nails on them.

I have repeated the procedure as early as possible, when the nails regrow. So the wounds are smaller. But I am planning to get them all permanently removed with a Lapidus / Terminal Symes surgery. There the nailbed and root is cut out, the bone of the distal phalanx is shortened at least to the half or one third and the wound gets closed with the remaining soft tissue. The result are soft and round toe tips; especially when the bone is shortened as far as possible while preserving the soft tissue.

I also thought about the Phenol method, but my experience is not so good, because most of the nails are coming Partially back. This was my experience when I got all my fingernails removed with phenol. Then I tried the Terminals Symes surgery on my thumb, where the regrowing nail was very ugly and on the small finger. The result is very good and no more problem with nail regrowth.

Also the healing time is much shorter than with the phenol method. 2 weeks until stitch removal and then after an additional week the scabs are going away.
daytommy2002 15-Mar-2013 03:57
Hi Lynch 77: "permanent" is the way to go...because there is always a chance the nail comes back and creates issues. Just be forewarned that your toe may look somewhat different without the nail. But after a few weeks you will be used to it and it does not look bad at all....It takes a good 6 weeks to heal completely. Sometimes a tad longer. You should be able to go to work the next day...but don't expect to ware closed toed shoes for at least two weeks, a post-op shoe or open toe sandal will be fine. it is good that you are doing this in warmer months so you could ware open toe shoes or sandals. After the surgery they will put a large pressure bandage, after your shower the next morning you could take it off and then start dressing your wound as instructed. There will be some drainage form the wound for at least 2 weeks or longer. You should avoid any physical activity like running/joging for about two weeks. At three weeks you could ware a sneaker and workout; but don't put any pressure on the toe. Let it heal. Always keep it covered....if you see any sign of infection, that is warm toe, swollen after a few days of surgery, etc call your doctor immediately and let him or her know. Always use an antibiotic cream or gel. Good luck..you will be fine. Keep us posted.
lynch7712-Mar-2013 02:27
Hi everyone, i am scheduled to have both big toenails permenately removed next friday. I have had the toenails removed before and it was awful! I am wondering if anyone can tell me if having them burnt off permenately is about the same amount of pain as a typical removal or worse. Now as far as the actual procedure i am not worried as i have convinced the dr. to medicate me severely so i have no idea what he is doing, i cant go through the needles again..Its the afterwards that i am wondering about...Thanks for the input in advance..
Rachel 22-Feb-2013 22:31
I'm sorry soapy of you suffered with such pain. My son has had ingrown nails for around six years- like his mom, me, did. He is 15. Nails removed twice and didn't grow back properly. Doctor said try once more and if that doesn't work, to remove permanently. I was particularly interested in Daniel, as he's close to my sons age. Best of luck to you, And everyone Hope your problems are resolved permanently and painlessly.
Don 22-Jan-2013 21:10
I must agree! I struggled for years with my toenails. I can say that I do not believe I ever went a month without serious infection and painful ingrown nails. My problem occurred on all my toes and it was due to genetic deformity. Due to damage to my hip I became unable to reach my feet and my wife refused to "tear out my nails." I had them all removed and though they are sensitive is you drop something on them, it is a small price to pay. For me, if I had to do the surgery without Novocain I would still do it. 50 years ago that is the way my doctor treated me. Put in a mouth guard to bite on, grab a brace behind my back and then tear the nail out. I MUST STRESS... REALLY BURN THAT NAIL BED WITH THE PHENOL. I had to have about half of my toes done a second time and some a third time. But well worth it.
daytommy 24-May-2012 01:37
@Terri below: I would not recommend going back to work...take the rest of the day off....you don't know when the anesthetic they give you wares off....so it is better to be at home for the rest of the day and elevate the foot and take some pain pills as soon as you get home...so that by the time the anesestic is gone you won't feel the throbbing sensation. Good luck and keep us posted! I just had my left big toe done last Friday (for the second time).
Jinj 23-May-2012 22:51
So its two years since I commented and I am back :D
Still have the effing shards sticking out of my toe and after years of rippin them out (both by accident and not) I have lost all the feeling in the end of my toes, the doctor sent me to the podiatrist who told me to self reffer, so I did and have heard zilch...solution = tequila!
Not too bothered by the look of them anymore, have found you can paint the skin for nights out but I have given up, have also realised my next toe along is now ingrowing so back to the poddoc we go...
Terri 23-May-2012 17:17
I go tomorrow to have my big toe nail removed. Should I go back to work? I can sit at my desk and elevate.
daytommy 18-May-2012 16:10
Just came back from permanent toenail surgery on my left big toe. Had this same surgery on the same toe last year and it came back after about 8 months. This time it was thicker and twisted. I had my right big toe done in 2010 with excellent results. My two big toes have had fungus issues since 2008. The podiatrist I consulted recommended that permanent removal of the two big toenails would be only permanent solution to the problem. I have posted on this board before.....see my story further below. Happy healing everyone, and I will keep you posted as the healing progresses.
Anthony 18-May-2012 04:14
Hi I am worried because I removed my infected toe nail myself without any chemicals or anesthesia and the nail is off but my nail bed hurts when I press it. The nail hurt before too when the nail was on the bed. I had a fungus infection on my toes since 1986 and tried laser treatment 2 times and it only worked 50% and cost me $1500. but now 7/10 nails are reinfected. I tried everything. I am just worried evenutally this will get in my blood and I get gangrene and they have to cut off my toe and I can die too. Please help with any ideas.
Guest 04-May-2012 21:21
I had both my big toenails removed on 27th feb 2012 and they still hav:nt healed and thats 9 weeks ago.they are not infected but still leaking so i hope its been worth it as i:m now going on holiday abroad with my toes still dressed.
laura 01-May-2012 15:58
Hi
I`m Laura
My toe nail was remove 3 hours ago.was my decicion. since I had a fonguns since 2006
I was pregnat 6 month ago,when I discover that ugle nail had a fungus.

He give me anestesia 3 times. no pain during the process .and now the pain is moderate,
Dr said I`m good person for pain. no all people is same.

HE explained about take tylenol and not ibuprofen. ..ibuprofen promote bleeding.

if I have to do again I WILLL DO!

I can`t ake pills for fungus since I got hepatitis A month ago.


People the pain will not kill you. GOOD lock
r 12-Apr-2012 20:22
I just had my toenail removed on my big toe, right foot a few hours ago. Burns/throbs, but my doctor told me to only use Tylenol/Advil for pain relief, and that I would be good to work the next day (on my feet for 8 hours lifting).

Guess some of ya got lucky with your doctors believing in stronger pain medication.
angela 01-Apr-2012 06:32
I wish I read this before. My toe hurt so bad . My doctor said he didnt give pain pills with toenail removal . Let me tell ya you need pain pills it does help. I sure hope this works I have been reading this and it doesen't sound like it works I have the fungus in my big toenail. Has anybody had any sucess with this nail removal and the fungus doesnt come back? I will never do this again I would rather give birth . My doctor said if you have fungus do not wrap you toe up the fungus grows in moist dark places.
denise 01-Apr-2012 02:50
hi all i see by most comments that they have bathed their feet but i was advised by my podiatrist not to bathe at all for at leats 6 weeks and change my dressings every 2 days !, both of my toe nails on my big toes were removed 2 weeks ago i have a feeling as though my toes are on fire painful and still a leaking . is this normal or signs of an infection? also i have rested my feet as much as possible ,i have recentky been diagnosed as diabetic, so do not know whether i should go to docs i do not want to look stupid.
anyone here that can advise me i would truly be grateful
regards denise
Katie K 29-Mar-2012 17:34
I have just had my big toenail removed two days ago. I was instructed to take my shower as usual the very next day with the bandage still on. This helps it to come off easily. I f it is still difficult, soak it in a pan of really WARM water or pour hydrogen peroxide over it. After the bandage is removed, soak it in clean warm water (about 2 quarts) with 4-6 tablespoons of epsom salts disolved in it. Soak 20 to 25 minutes. Dry completely and re-dress using antibiotic CREAM on the nail area then use clean gauze or bandaid.. Redress again before bed the same way. Soak once a day for a week. When drainage from area lessens, leave wound open at night and cover during day only.When no drainage is seen upon bandaid removal you need not cover it at all any more. PLEASE- if the area is very swollen, hot, shiney with yellow areas or yellow drainage, see your doctor! This means infection!
Tabby 21-Mar-2012 02:22
Hi I got both my big toenails permanently removed 5 days ago, the left foot has no pain, i walk on it and it has little to no bleeding or pus but my right is agony. It wont stop aching, I can't sleep, I can't walk and it hurts like anything when I take the bandages off and when I put it in water it feels like fire. I think it's infected and I want to know if anyone has had this experience and what helped and how long this hell lasts. Please help as I am very tired and in a lot of pain :( x
Guest 20-Mar-2012 14:46
Hello. I had this procedure done 10 days ago on my right foot on my second smallest toe. The nail was much smaller than your big toenail so i assume healing will be quicker for me ? Do you have any tips for faster healing as i really need it to heal fast ideally in the next 2 weeks at the latest. I had a dressing change at 7 days and the doc said it looked perfect it was just red and sore no weeping or anything. I have been advised at 14days to take off the bandage myself and soak it twice a day every day in epsom salts and then let the air get to it and rebandage at night. Is this the best and fastest way to get the scab to form ? Also as its still red raw,well i assume it is is havent seen it in 3 days will it be fine to start soaking it in the salt water or will that sting alot ? Thanks for any info
Karey 20-Mar-2012 06:28
Oh wow cool, a whole community of people who've done this. I had my big toenail removed for the second time 3 weeks ago, here's hoping its the last time. My nailless toe looked great after it healed the last time, I was majorly bummed when it started growing back after about 6 months. And it grew back as warped as before, but the healing process last time was so dreadful I put off having another removal for a year. It hurts a lot less this time around. I thought the phenol burn was supposed to make it more painful, but this time I don't really feel anything, unless I try to put on a closed toed shoe then it hurts like hell. I don't remember how long I wore sandals last time, but I'm worried that nothing seems to be improving this time around. I saw the podiatrist once already worried it was infected, but it turned out it was just a layer of dead tissue looking all gross and yellowy. He said if its infected it will make a more milky discharge. I'm probably being paranoid but now it does have a thicker milkier look covering the whole thing, I'm hoping that's just another dead tissue layer. anyone know what infections after nail removal look like? Instead of a dark bloody scab I've got a yellowy film all the time, it's been 24 days now.
Nathan 11-Mar-2012 16:17
I've had the simple removal done 2 times, where it will grow back. Tomorrow, it goes off permanantly. The gauze stuck to it both times. Please help is there any way i can get it off without all the pain im scared to death just cause of that!!
Pat 08-Mar-2012 06:11
Hi My name is Pat I suffered with the ingrown toe nail on right foot for 10 years. Could usually soak it and get it cut by myself but then I couldn't any more. Went to see my Dr. before going out of the country on 3 week vacation. There wasn,t enough time to heal before I left so he just trimmed enough to keep me comfy till I returned There were two warts u.nder the nail{no wonder it hurt}. I just had it permanently removed on Tuesday. Novacaine or whatever he used wore off in 4 hours and I was in a great deal of pain, luckily I had some strong pain meds left from a back surgery because I definately needed them. My bandage also stuck the next day when removing it, I just soaked it off..Slept in recliner with foot elevated and ice pack under toe to keep down the swelling. Much better after you remove the pressure bandage and soak. I went to office to work for 2 hrs right after don't do that, just come home park yourself with foot elevated immediately. Get pain meds to get through the first 36 hours and borrow a walker or cane for a day, and I think now I will be ready for the other toe. But be warned the first 36 hours are no picnic.
Guest 03-Mar-2012 04:43
I've been battleing ingrowns for what only seems fo be the last 5 years, since I turn about 28 or so. It started out with just one and then both big toes and then started gettting a few on the little toes. However the big toes are the worst I've had all four sides done several times now in the last 5 years about 1 time a year it seems like. They keep making the nail thinner and thinner. Then I I had some here and there with the little one's so I went in and had them all done twice now. The nails are growing a little strange, but not terrible. All of this is permanent with phenol evertime. They keep coming back. I have another one now on a little toe, so I went in to the Dr. He didn't have time to do the full phenol said I would have to come back. I asked him if he would just take all ten full nails off? He said he would do it and soak my toes in phenol.. That's a joke. I thinking things are gettting so funny with the way they look and they keep coming back anyways. I don't care what they look like. I figure instead of having to keep going back for awhile, just best to tear em all out. He's a real good Doctor and I've never had any issues with healing. I think I'm going to take my chances and then if some grow back I'll deal with them again or whatever. Any thoughts or ideas? Thanks.
Daniel 29-Feb-2012 14:27
Hey its me again dan my left big toe has finaly healed with the sides only cut of but the right nail on big toe had to be removed 2 weeks ago it wasnt painfull but try and NOT GET BANDAGES STUCK IF TOTAL REMOVAL when they remove to change hurts like hell

Need advice?help?anything else?? just email me @ daschofield@hotmail.com

daniel
Guest 28-Feb-2012 18:22
The Doctor does not tell you how painful and bloody this procedure is going to be.
I had two infected toes form an unsanitary pedicure ,the girl cut my toenails really short to the point they hurt.After finding out this could have lead to death I contacted the State agency and they went and inspectioned the salon and found several violations.I was in so much pain the day I had my toemnails removed I was in agony!!!I had the toenails removed in October and they still are not completelly grown back in and they are very sensitive to the cold.I still put ant fungal cream on every day.
thomas 24-Feb-2012 22:34
Hey my names Thomas. i have Ingrown toenail on both sides of both my big toes. i got surgery around this time last year but they started growing back around November. i am really scared i dont know if i should just get both of the toenails removed or get surgery again. either way is extremely painful. and ami 19 years old. please i need advice.
Clodagh 20-Feb-2012 04:56
it looks sore :( i might need to get it done on one of my big toes :(
Daniel 16-Feb-2012 23:52
Hey guys its me dan im back i got the operation done 3 days before christmas and im seeing the light at end of tunnel to recovery but my right big toe nail decided to be evil and regrow so got reoperation next week same thing only side and hope for the best

well atleast im prepared

want advice?? scared?? email me at daschofield@hotmail.com i will give tips,post surgery and before surgery ......

Dan
John 16-Jan-2012 08:42
@Millie: If you don't get to remove the gauze by yourself you have to go to the pycician to remove it. It's a must to remove it! My tip: Use a wound adhering wound dressing afterwards, with this you don't get these problems. - Good luck!
millie 14-Jan-2012 11:39
i had a toenail removal last 3 days and now i need to remove the gauze and put a new one i tried soaking it in water and some of the part loosen off but the gauze dont want to let go in my wound it really hurts when i try to remove it manually
Michele03-Jan-2012 07:05
lbliss - I think this is the most awesome photo documentary I've ever seen! I don't know if my toenail problem will end up with total removal of the nail or not. The first doctor I saw, said it might be my best solution. My nail bed was damaged by a heavy object hitting directly on the nail. Mine does look a lot like your "before" picture, so maybe... Anyhow, I wanted to thank you for putting me more at ease if it does come to that. :)
Liam 31-Dec-2011 17:04
Way to go John! Your feet look awesome and oh so pain free! Your 3rd surgery went so well, you healed very, very well!
Daniel 30-Dec-2011 23:51
hey me again im 16 and had operation on 2 big toes not all nail but over a week know and recovering perfect with salty water foot bath to every pint of water 1 spoon of salt and mild temputure need any advice about it contact me daschofield@hotmail.com i have suffred for 2 years and all over i can give u alot of advice
Daniel 30-Dec-2011 03:29
hey me again im 16 and had operation on 2 big toes not all nail but over a week know and recovering perfect with salty water foot bath to every pint of water 1 spoon of salt and mild temputure need any advice about it contact me daschofield@hotmail.com i have suffred for 2 years and all over i can give u alot of advice
John 27-Dec-2011 14:01
@10chopper1: The only thing I can advice is to be patient. After my second surgery (removal of 9 toenails) I was only using ointment twice a day, this worked fine for me and made healing much faster as after the first surgery (removal of the big toenail). If you are interested, have a look to my photostream www.flickr.com/photos/nomoretoenails
10chopper1 26-Dec-2011 17:35
Help! I've had all my toenails removed permanatly 13 days ago and my healing is so slow compared to pictures I have seen.I go back to the doctor in 4 more days. All I know that the clear liquid that was constantly leaking out has slowed but they have not scabbed up and the liquid finds away to leak through. I'm scared to get them wet because the pain starts all over again I have noticed that I can wiggle all of them more and more each day but what can I do to stop the leaking? Why can't they scab up and stop leaking? I want to take a real shower and enjoy it instead of hurrying and washing.Suggestions please, what can I do to heal faster?
Guest 23-Dec-2011 22:38
Hey im Jade im 16 and ive had problems with this for years, would like to speak to someone personally about this as im very embarresed and having numerous problems.. If you think you could help please email me; jadehere8@aol.co.uk
Liam 22-Dec-2011 15:39
I wish you a speedy, healthy recovery. Take it easy for the next few days.
Daniel 22-Dec-2011 03:04
Today is they day after my operation on ingrowen toenail on both big toes i got they operation done in under 1.15 hour involving 5 injections 2 on each toe and 1 in right ankle tommorow im getting bandage changed know 6 week recovery to go throw but its worth it i felt so relived seeing all the sides of my nail dissaper and come from under skin i recomend only part nail removed and it was lees painfull only some tough when he pulled nail but its ok and they are very nice people they know what they are doing
Daniel 15-Dec-2011 16:22
@liam

the first one was either side of nail removed and didnt sucses so getting it done again but with the burn off thing but its neccesery it is last option
Dan 13-Dec-2011 23:17
I have used every thing under the sun and all the herbal remedies that are out the to no avail. Lamasil is expensive and side effects are scary, Penlac nail polish is expensive and did not work, tea tree oil, listerine treatmet, vicks vapor rub, I could go on for hours. @0 years of treying to rid myself of toenail fungus acquired while in the military stationed in Japan. Had total and permanent toenail removal on my right foot 6 weeks ago. 28th the left foot is going to get the same treatment. Toenails are overated any doctor that tells you any different is only after your money. Had it not been for the Doctor it would not have spread to my other toes.....
Liam 13-Dec-2011 02:52
Hey Daniel,

Honestly I wouldn't recommend permanent nail surgery or total toenail removal UNLESS it is your only option. In regards to your first procedure, which one was it? Was it a permanent one with phenol to burn off the base or just a simple avulsion (cutting out the ingrown nail)?
Daniel 09-Dec-2011 18:29
Hello im 16 and getting nail operation procedure due to ingrowen toe nail on both big toes and both sides had it for over 2 years and already had 1 uncessesfull operation getting one the 20th im a bit scared but just wanted some tips to avoid infection or anything lke that

plus after poccedure will it hurt fir few days?
Daniel 09-Dec-2011 18:24
Hello im 16 and getting nail operation procedure due to ingrowen toe nail on both big toes and both sides had it for over 2 years and already had 1 uncessesfull operation getting one the 20th im a bit scared but just wanted some tips to avoid infection or anything lke that

plus after poccedure will it hurt fir few days?
Liam 30-Nov-2011 19:46
I want to make an announcement or warning to ANYBODY who is reading this and is CONTEMPLATING the total or partial removal of an ingrown toenail:

PLEASE, look for second or THIRD opinions. Do NOT rush into this. This is surgery and there risks. Major risks. So be careful and protective of YOUR toes! These foot specialists don't have to live with this, WE DO. They just do 'the job', get your money and tell you to have a nice day. If anything bad happens, well tough luck.

I wish someone would've warned me sternly about this. This procedure is not a bowl of cherries. It takes WEEKS to heal - phenol is NOT kind to tissue. Please think twice before proceeding.

I hope my message has reached someone. SOMEONE out there who is reading this and about to go into this. If this is NOT your last resort (and surgery should always be the last resort) exhaust ALL other options first. I know I wish I did....learn from OUR mistakes.
AK 23-Nov-2011 18:55
Did you get a permanent partial or just a temporary one (without phenol)? Without phenol it's pretty painless. It's the chemical burn that hurts the most. Stick to using non stick gauze pads, soak your foot twice a day in warm epsom salt water (very little amount of time though) and follow your doc's instructions in terms of applying any ointments.
Genia 23-Nov-2011 10:11
Yesterday I had partial toenail removal on my right big toe due to ingrown toenail and infection. Except for the injection, the procedure was basically painless. Currently, I'm scouring the internet for homecare tips with the hope of avoiding infection as well as expediting my recovery time. I will definitely use dressing gauze instead of band-aids. Thanks to all tipsters for that tip! I've noticed on the site that a few women questioned if there are any toenail replacement options. Although I didn't discuss the option with my doctor (since I hope the nail grows back fine), I noticed a brochure in her office for toenail restoration. I have no idea if the procedure works well. I just grabbed the brochure in case I find myself without toenails since both big toe toenails are curved in and have become quite painful. The website is keryflex.com
Thanks so very much for sharing your story and pictures. Although, I'm glad that I didn't find your site before my procedure because it looks extremely painful and I probably would have tried to chicken out.
Liam 18-Nov-2011 21:08
I've had a scab for several weeks now. I got the surgery in late September and the scab formed during week 4-5. I try not to mess with it so much except keep it and the area around it very clean.

Resisting the urge to pick is hard I know LOL. My doctor always wants to scrape things - ugh, I won't be seeing him anyway. He's useless now to me (you can tell I am a bit bitter now). I'm managing well on my own though. I don't soak it anymore - I wouldn't soak it if the scab has formed. The scab will fall off itself - no need to saturate it in water and salt. But if you feel it's helping you - then continue on. For me, bits of it are coming off in my showers.

It may take a few more weeks but I have no pain and I am grateful for that.
Happy healing Joanne! :)
Joanne 18-Nov-2011 16:51
Ah i've had that scab for about a week now. wondered how long it would take to come off. defo wouldnt want it scraped though. no need for it. Mine forms a band across the middle though. Do you still soak your toe? Eack time i soak it a 'skin/scab' thing comes of if i wipe it with a bit of cotton wool, which makes it uncomfortable but think it helps it heal more as it comes towards the surface, suppose only time will tell. trying to resist the urge to pick at it lol.
Liam 17-Nov-2011 22:26
Joanne, your advice and willingness to comment and help others is really wonderful! :)

I guess I should update, it's been awhile. It has now been 8 weeks since my partial and while I no longer have pain - I still have a slight scab left over on the side. I was informed that it would takes weeks for that scab to fall off., My podiatrist wanted to scrape it off, but I gave him that look. You know the 'look' like if he dares touches me I will kick him with my good ol' left foot in the groin?

Yeah...so I guess it's over. I can do everything normally (exercise, walk long distances) and nothing occurs. Once the scab falls off I`ll feel great and my toe will look nicer.

«Hope everyone else is going great!
Joanne 16-Nov-2011 19:43
Hiya sarah, there is a pic on here, if you click on galleries there is another section concerning the aftercare and recovery after removal. Most people on this and the other site have said they were using plasters and it was causing problems, but often this was because they hadnt been given aftercare advise by their doc. dressing are better than plasters/band aids. Plasters sweat wounds and cause infection whereas a dressing doesnt.
sarah 16-Nov-2011 16:42
Is there a picture on here of what it is suppose to look like. I bathe them every nite with salt water like they told me to. Can i put antiseptic cream on them or do i just put the plaster on. The last thing i want is for them to get infected or even worse i ave to ave my big toe removed fully :-(.
Nila 16-Nov-2011 14:52
@Sarah... When I removed my dressing first time after nail removal on day 3, I had some dry blood clots coming out when toe was soaked in warm water.... so I guess its normal....
sarah 15-Nov-2011 20:10
Hi i had my big toe nails removed a week ago been back for change of dressing and no changining dressings myself and have dark red bits looks like dry blood. Is this normal. Thanx sarah
Nila 13-Nov-2011 21:17
Hello everyone.... Todays it's day 6 since toe nail removed and finally the stuck gauze detached on its after soaking in warm betadine water... the toe is healing very well and the pulp is reddish pink. Thanks. :)
Joanne 13-Nov-2011 11:06
Hiya Daniel, Leaking/oozing/weeping is normal with phenol procedures and lasts about 6 weeks. I was instructed to salt bathe my toe once a day 3tbsp to 2 pint wate, air dry for 20 mins and dress in a bandage. DO NOT USE BAND AIDS. these sweat it and cause infection. dry antiseptic powder spray helps healing as well. This has all worked quite well for me.
Daniel 13-Nov-2011 07:12
Hi Everyone. I just got my 2 big toenails removed two days ago? I am noticing that my toes are leaking some fluid, and I am not sure if this is normal or not. I see some references to
"weeping" but I am not sure what that means. I am using triple antibiotic ointment in a bandage for about 12 hours a day, and I am letting my toes air dry the rest of the day. My doctor did not give me any follow up instructions, so I am glad I found this posting online. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Daniel 13-Nov-2011 07:12
Hi Everyone. I just got my 2 big toenails removed two days ago? I am noticing that my toes are leaking some fluid, and I am not sure if this is normal or not. I see some references to
"weeping" but I am not sure what that means. I am using triple antibiotic ointment in a bandage for about 12 hours a day, and I am letting my toes air dry the rest of the day. My doctor did not give me any follow up instructions, so I am glad I found this posting online. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Nila 12-Nov-2011 20:52
Hi Joanne..... thanks for replying.... yes it is gauze.... and it's still on.... I have no idea why the doc did ordinary gauze bandage.... I have read everywhr it says using non adherent thing...... I couldnt remove the gauze stuck and had to do new dressing on top of the it.... I dried it thought before new dressing and applied betadine...... the nail pulp is still red and very very sensitive to touch but dont hurt otherwise..... .. I have no idea how to remove the stuck gauze before the nail pulp gets healed a bit..... how long does it take to heal the nail pulp?? Thanks!!
Joanne 11-Nov-2011 20:10
Hiya nila, I think the prob your having is down to actually using gauze if its bonding with the skin. I was told to use a non adherant bandage and selotape it on with microporous surgical tape. Only one way to get the gauze off really though :S
Nila 10-Nov-2011 18:07
I have had a toe nail removal from accidental avulsion 3 days back.... Today I cant remove my dressing... it sticks bad to the nail pulp.... I have soaked my feet once for 4 hours and another time for 3.5 hours without any result.... the nail pulp where the dressing is stuck is bright red and hurts if i pull the gauze..... what to do??? Please help!!
Joanne 09-Nov-2011 21:01
It takes between 6 - 8 weeks for full recovery but im coming to the end of week 5 and its pretty much healed, certain shoes are uncomfortable, but walking and light running is the same as ever.
labourday 08-Nov-2011 09:07
Thank you so much for this photo essay. I run, and like many runners, am no stranger to the toenail removal process. The thought of not having to perform minor surgery on myself is enticing to say the least. I'm seriously considering this. How long did it take to heal?
Joanne 04-Nov-2011 21:34
Hiya Angel
I was down for partial removal myself but asked on the day for full removal as this makes the phenol more effective and has a lot less chance of regrowth. You could ask for full nail removal, it makes little difference to them in how they do it. Partial removal is normally more for women as we tend to paint our nails a bit more often although he may have left most the nail untouched because of your sons age. Still... no harm in asking. Especially if he's having trouble with the other side of the nail aswell.
angel 01-Nov-2011 22:59
Thanks for your advice Joanne :)
My sons toe looks really good now, still seems a bit swollen at side nail was ingrown but the wound is hardly noticeable :) doc said back to football training a week on fri but he now has ingrown toenail on the other side of his toe he had surgery on :(
He has been in agony with ingrown nail today , doc gave him antibiotic again as the ingrown part is infected, WISH THEY JUST TOOK THE WHOLE F*CKING NAIL OFF NOW!! GRRRRRR
Joanne 30-Oct-2011 09:03
For everyone insecure about the appearance of thier toes after nail removal, I think i have found a solution! Bio Sculpture Gel Nails. Doesnt need any nail to be applied to. Suitable for men too, just get a clear or french manicure to recreat the look of a nail.
martha 29-Oct-2011 19:43
My big toe on my right foot has a fungus. Notice the discolor about 4 years ago. Went to Dr. was put on some pills for 6 mo.s didn't help. The toenail gets thick and rubs my shoe so I have to go to the dr. and he files it down. He said I could have it perm. removed. I am concidering this. My question has anyone had requets for having your toenail removed.?
martha 29-Oct-2011 19:42
My big toe on my right foot has a fungus. Notice the discolor about 4 years ago. Went to Dr. was put on some pills for 6 mo.s didn't help. The toenail gets thick and rubs my shoe so I have to go to the dr. and he files it down. He said I could have it perm. removed. I am concidering this. My question has anyone had requets for having your toenail removed.?
Joanne 28-Oct-2011 19:06
hiya angel, no need for the doc to be that rude is there :O quite shocked at that. Its up to you if you want your son to be off school for the week not the docs. I had a week of myself but found I didnt really need it as i'm allowed temporarily to wear sandles. I'm finally back in shoes on week 3 and bearable. Not looking forward to the other one being done next month though. will be a lot colder haha. If he can wear shoes for school for a few weeks he should be alright. I'd recommend getting some Savlon antiseptic dry powder spray too. Big healing time difference. Reduces infection to. I've found it to be really good.
As i sain a couple of sentences ago though i'm on week 3, still bandaging my toe as its still weeping. you'll definatly know when you can tell him to start leaving the bandages of. Looks a lot different , healthy clean new skin. Tends to heal from the top of the toe going towards the cuticle. My nurse told me it takes 6 - 8 weeks to stop weeping. The doc told me 2 - 4 weeks. And the internets told me 3 - 6 weeks. But I think you'll know when it looks right. If it doesnt then its not ready for the fresh air. 'Fresh' air still carries bacteria that can cause infection.
Joanne 28-Oct-2011 19:06
hiya angel, no need for the doc to be that rude is there :O quite shocked at that. Its up to you if you want your son to be off school for the week not the docs. I had a week of myself but found I didnt really need it as i'm allowed temporarily to wear sandles. I'm finally back in shoes on week 3 and bearable. Not looking forward to the other one being done next month though. will be a lot colder haha. If he can wear shoes for school for a few weeks he should be alright. I'd recommend getting some Savlon antiseptic dry powder spray too. Big healing time difference. Reduces infection to. I've found it to be really good.
As i sain a couple of sentences ago though i'm on week 3, still bandaging my toe as its still weeping. you'll definatly know when you can tell him to start leaving the bandages of. Looks a lot different , healthy clean new skin. Tends to heal from the top of the toe going towards the cuticle. My nurse told me it takes 6 - 8 weeks to stop weeping. The doc told me 2 - 4 weeks. And the internets told me 3 - 6 weeks. But I think you'll know when it looks right. If it doesnt then its not ready for the fresh air. 'Fresh' air still carries bacteria that can cause infection.
Suzanne Hopkins 28-Oct-2011 02:34
I had my big toenail removed because of infection. I dropped a pot on my foot and it ripped open my skin, damaged my nail and broke a bone. When the doc got it off (THANK GOD for that anesthetic!!), it looked like the bottom where the 'moon' is is all swollen. He said it was the matrix. Does this mean I'll never get another big toenail?? BTW about a week later I don't need any more bandages, but I have to be careful not to hit it on anything!
Guest 27-Oct-2011 12:58
That is what i have heard from alot of people.The two big toes that i had taken off i scrubbed them and they healed fine.Hurt realllllllllllly bad but the dr said it makes the healing faster.today is day fourth day still dont have the feeling.I dont understand it at all.
angel 26-Oct-2011 16:08
Hi Shae , the numbness in my 10 year olds toe wore off about a hour and a half afterwards , I would NEVER SCRUB HIS WOUND WITH A TOOTHBRUSH , sounds very harsh, ouch!!
Guest 26-Oct-2011 16:08
Hi Shae , the numbness in my 10 year olds toe wore off about a hour and a half afterwards , I would NEVER SCRUB HIS WOUND WITH A TOOTHBRUSH , sounds very harsh, ouch!!
shae 25-Oct-2011 18:23
I just had my 4th one done yesterday.I had my 2 bigs ones done a couple of years ago.I know the feeling come back about 2 hours after.This time the feeling is not back,I am glad for that but was worried.I called the dr and they said it could take up to 48 hrs for it to come back.So i guess i am just waiting.Am i the only one whos dr told them to scrub the toe with a soft tooth brush?I did the last ones like that it hurt but they got better faster to me.I soaked them then scrubbed the scabs off with the toothbrush.I was just wanting to know.I am just wondering how long everyone else waited until the numbness wore off.thanks for any advise
angel 24-Oct-2011 17:23
Hi Joanne :) Thank you for your reply :)
Had my sons toe looked at today , it looks really red at the side part of the nail was removed and below the nail , the wound looks gooey. The nurse said the redness was due to the pressure of my sons shoe pushing on his nail , I asked should I keep my son off school for a few days then so he can keep his shoes off? I was told rudely "its not that bad that he needs to stay off school" well excuse me but if my sons shoe is putting pressure on his toenail and making it really red , I do not want him in shoes for seven hours!! He sighed when my son told him the dressing was too tight and he had to redo it , I asked about the dressing falling off through the night as the wound scabbed up , he looked at me in disgust and said (with a attitude) "the dressing has only been off 5 mins" Told him if he listened to what I said about through the night and I hadnt mentioned the dressing being off for 5 mins while there , GRRRRRR I was so angry!!
I went straight round to my doctors surgery and asked if my doctor could call me, my doctor said soak toe in salt for 5 mins a day then redress , only use dressings for 2 weeks ," REALLY "I said , they told me 6 to 8 weeks for dressings , my doctor said the wound needs air to heel , I feel better now after speaking to my doctor :)
Mordred 24-Oct-2011 01:42
For anyone about to get this procedure, PLEASE AVOID the phenol procedure. Phenol is the WORST to tissue. If you are going to get it done, go to a skilled DPM that uses sodium hydroxide (awesome - less drainage), CO2 laser or radiosurgery.

Phenol is very old fashion and harsh. There HAVE been advancements beyond using this nasty shit to kill the matrix.
Joanne 23-Oct-2011 09:42
Hiya Angel, ive had my nail removed 2 weeks ago now. Ive been keeping track of hows everybodies being told to look after their toe's and no instructions are the same which confuses me. If he's had phenol though ive been told to not allow it to scab and physically remove the scab if one occurs to let the phenol out. This may be why there's a lump at the side of the toe. I was advised to bathe the foot in salt water ( 3 tbls to 2 pint of water) and redress toe daily. Clean and dry and once its stopped weeping it should be alright to begin leaving the dressing off. Try not to stop using dressing too early though as i believe this is whats allowed infection to set in. I wouldnt advise playing soccer till all tenderness and healing has finished either. I can cause blistering and strange little lumps to my experience but i have to be on my feet all day with work. I hope i've been able to help, but i'm not a doctor and its always best to get a second opinion.
Joanne 23-Oct-2011 09:42
Hiya Angel, ive had my nail removed 2 weeks ago now. Ive been keeping track of hows everybodies being told to look after their toe's and no instructions are the same which confuses me. If he's had phenol though ive been told to not allow it to scab and physically remove the scab if one occurs to let the phenol out. This may be why there's a lump at the side of the toe. I was advised to bathe the foot in salt water ( 3 tbls to 2 pint of water) and redress toe daily. Clean and dry and once its stopped weeping it should be alright to begin leaving the dressing off. Try not to stop using dressing too early though as i believe this is whats allowed infection to set in. I wouldnt advise playing soccer till all tenderness and healing has finished either. I can cause blistering and strange little lumps to my experience but i have to be on my feet all day with work. I hope i've been able to help, but i'm not a doctor and its always best to get a second opinion.
angel 23-Oct-2011 01:16
My 10 yr old had part of his toenail removed 6 days ago and a chemical put on so that part of the nail wont grow back, I agree that no1 explains how to care for toe afterwards
:( I was told to leave dressing on for 3 days and NOT to touch it, it kept falling off on second day! On 3rd day they changed dressing, I asked how many times a day I had to change dressing, just once he said ,I was also told to let my son keep dressing on in shower as the water hitting straight off it may hurt,SO WHEN AND HOW DO I CLEAN IT??????
Surgeon told me my son could return to football training second week if he felt ok to but at appointment 3 days later I was told NO SPORTS FOR 6 TO 8 WEEKS!! GRRRR
My sons toe has a scab on it today and I am surprised at how good it looks after surgery but he still has a lump at the side where nail was ingrowing that seems strange :( back for cheak up on mon
Joanne 22-Oct-2011 09:23
I went into the walk in centre yesterday to have my toe looked at as it began to bubble and blister. Has anyone else experienced this? I've had an Ivodine dressing put on and been told to leave it over the weekend which seems strange to me as it doesn't seem hygienic. It's to be taken of by the nurse on monday morning. Has anyone had this done? Does it hurt to have it taken off? Roughly when can I start leaving bandages off? A lot of quetions but this is the only place I can find where they might get answered.
Liam 19-Oct-2011 15:51
...somebody please update! I'm feeling kinda alone in this struggle. Still haven't fully healed....it's been a month (week 4). =( I hope this doesn't last up to 12 weeks like other ppl. I cannot. I have been so drained from this. =(
Liam 17-Oct-2011 20:47
I am now in week 4. Not fully healed but no pain at all and go about normal. It just doesn't look 100%. I am now harboring some deep hatred feelings for my podiatrist because the last 4 weeks have been depressing. I think I have passed the stage where infection can set in (it's dried up and scabbed). But if I do end up with an infection, I will FUCK this podiatrists' life up!!! Looking back I did have other options because mine wasn't even that bad.

I am seeing him on Wednesday. It'll be my last time. I'll give him some shit about not telling me of potential risks.
Liam 14-Oct-2011 16:27
@JackieBeth: Keeping hopeful is the best thing honestly. Your toe will be fine, mine often felt like this in week 1 and 2 but now the 'numbness' or tingling sensation is gone.

I don't plan on getting any of these ever again. I try not to regret because it just makes me frustrated. Lemme guess, did the foot specialist who performed your partial nail avulsion also tell you that this would heal quickly (2 weeks max?) and it would be a walk in the park? Hahaha mine did and I believed him. My nail wasn't even that badly ingrown I am sure there was another way to just clip it out. Ugh. There I go regretting lol. Gotta learn to stop!
:)
Jackie Beth 14-Oct-2011 05:47
I dont know why it posted that many times, my apologies. But you made perfect sense! Thank you! Now I am not afraid my toe will fall off. Although, I was negative and swore I'd never get another one done. I'm remaining hopeful!!
Jackie Beth 14-Oct-2011 05:01
I dont know why it posted that many times, my apologies. But you made perfect sense! Thank you! Now I am not afraid my toe will fall off. Although, I was negative and swore I'd never get another one done. I'm remaining hopeful!!
Jackie Beth 14-Oct-2011 04:54
I had an ingrown toe nail removed 4 weeks ago. It has not fully heeled. How long does this take?! There is still some scanning along the edges of the nail bed. My skin is also peeling around the whole nail and around the cuticle. It's very tender with pain deep into my toe. The thing I worry most though is the numbness or loss of feeling on some areas of my toe. It's not completely numb, but some areas of the skin around the nail are numb. It was partial nail removal with acid. Has anyone experienced these symptoms before? I'm a little scared.
Jackie Beth 14-Oct-2011 04:53
I had an ingrown toe nail removed 4 weeks ago. It has not fully heeled. How long does this take?! There is still some scanning along the edges of the nail bed. My skin is also peeling around the whole nail and around the cuticle. It's very tender with pain deep into my toe. The thing I worry most though is the numbness or loss of feeling on some areas of my toe. It's not completely numb, but some areas of the skin around the nail are numb. It was partial nail removal with acid. Has anyone experienced these symptoms before? I'm a little scared.
Liam 13-Oct-2011 18:26
BTW Jackie are u soaking in epsom salt and./or using ointments and dressings at this point? I was told by my podiatrist to stop soaking, dressings once drainage had stopped to allow the wound to dry out. Moist healing is vital for the first week or two but after that it needs to dry out to actually heal and for you to you let it out without covering it and starving oxygen off of it.
Liam 13-Oct-2011 15:44
Apparently 4 weeks is not an unusally long time to fully heal. That's what I am getting from these comments. I also had a partial nail avulsion...I'm at week 3 and it's similar to your scenario in that it has scabbed up, peeling skin on the cuticle. I don't have major pain though and I can walk on it.

Have you been walking on it normal for the last 4 weeks (like full pressure?). If not, that can be the cause of temporary numbness or uncomfortable feeling. Your body is just not used to put pressure on it since surgery. I get some of those feelings to it, but that seem to be passing the more I walk normally without trying to limp or baby my feet while I walk.

Don't worry. You're not alone in your recovery - a lot of us are dealing with this. I just went through a period of deep regret and sadness but I am keeping optimistic. As long as no infection sets in, we are good. We'll heal soon enough!!

*positive thoughts and happy healing to you
Jackie Beth 13-Oct-2011 05:54
I had an ingrown toe nail removed 4 weeks ago. It has not fully heeled. How long does this take?! There is still some scanning along the edges of the nail bed. My skin is also peeling around the whole nail and around the cuticle. It's very tender with pain deep into my toe. The thing I worry most though is the numbness or loss of feeling on some areas of my toe. It's not completely numb, but some areas of the skin around the nail are numb. It was partial nail removal with acid. Has anyone experienced these symptoms before? I'm a little scared.
Liam 08-Oct-2011 19:58
F*** this procedure and all podiatrists who perform it without informing patients of other options. Seriously.
Liam 06-Oct-2011 16:20
Had a follow up appointment with my podiatrist...everything is apparently GREAT. He told me I should be 100% by next week. I actually kinda see the light at the end of the tunnel because drainage seems to have stopped. He told me to stop using the Amerigel but I still applied a bit before going to work. I mean, in the real world I have to protect against infection. Wearing socks and shoes and working 8 hours....it's needed I think.

I won't be using it at home and when I sleep though. Just soaking (which does wonders IME). Hurray hopefully I am fine 100% by next week. Also pain is completely gone, I can run (tested it out a bit haha) and I'm fine.
Liam 05-Oct-2011 13:16
@John
Looking forward to your updates. You did a great job caring for it! I'll be sure to update my super slow progress here.
:)
Liam 05-Oct-2011 13:07
@John
Looking forward to your updates. You did a great job caring for it! I'll be sure to update my super slow progress here.
:)
John 05-Oct-2011 11:41
@Liam: After the scabs came off I still continued applying ointment. Between the nail bed and the nail fold there is still a fissure, there the skin seams to be very thin.
As you see on my pics the skin of the nail bed is getting callused after a permanent toenail removal. And it seams to be a frequently mentioned problem if you have a look to the contributions. For this I actually experiment using "Salicilvaseline" instead of ointment. It's a combination of 10 percent of salicile (the ingredient of Aspirine) and vaseline cream. It is able to dissolve calluses and it's bactericidal and an antiseptic at the same time. For the moment it seams to do its work, but I'm anxious to see if the skin will begin to normalize from ahead and from the side of the toes of if there will be no effect after applying it for some weeks. I will report the progress .
Liam 04-Oct-2011 19:34
@John
Also, were u continuing to apply ointment and soaking whilst having the scabs? Sorry for the questions...I'm kinda getting nervous about the whole thing cause my podiatrist told me that I would be healed in 14 days. Im at day 13 and it's not healed, haha. I want this to be over and never have to deal with this again.
Liam 04-Oct-2011 18:20
@John
I had a question though, now that scabs went off, are you still soaking or applying ointment and gauzes or no?
tia! :)
Liam 04-Oct-2011 18:17
Congrats JOHN!! I just went through your photostream! YAY you healed amazingly. I am in Day 13 of partial phenol nail avulsion. It's scabbed up a bit (like dark looking). I'm continuing to soak it for 5 mins morning and night in warm, epsom salt water and applying amerigel (antibiotic + tissue healer). I hope I heal soon. I'm still draining a bit amongst the little scab forming.

positive healing for all!!!
toesucker 03-Oct-2011 01:53
I have had all ten removed and love it. Just wished I'd done it years ago instead of battling ingrown nails. Amazing how they look too. I wear flips all the time now.
PS.. Yes I have a foot fetish too.. lol
toesucker 03-Oct-2011 01:16
I have had all ten removed and love it. Just wished I'd done it years ago instead of battling ingrown nails. Amazing how they look too. I wear flips all the time now.
PS.. Yes I have a foot fetish too.. lol
John 02-Oct-2011 18:06
@Jo: I agree, it seams most surgeons do not know a lot about the correct aftercare. It's my experience, too. My finding is: soaking the whole toe (and the forefoot) is suboptimal because there are always bacteria on the skin, this can get to the wound and cause an infection, even you use antiseptic additives in the water (there are a lot of bacteria on the feet!). But it's nevertheless important to prevent forming a scab, to keep the wound open and to enable discharge of fluids. With my method (as already described) I had great success, three weeks after the removal of all remaining toenails it's almost healed and I'm almost fully mobile again, no infection, no more pain. Apropos pain: The first three days it's absolutely essential to take sufficient painkillers. I got them from my surgeon and by this I managed the situation fairly good. For me it was worth one's while.
Jo 01-Oct-2011 14:28
I just posted that I had my big toenail removed and I will never do this again even if the fungus comes back, it is very painful, I am so miserable. Podiatrists do not seem to help you much or tell you what to do. I came on here to see if I could get some advice to make this more tolerable.
Jo 01-Oct-2011 14:24
I had my big toe nail removed and the second day I was able to soak it in warm water and epsom salt but after that I cannot put my foot in the water it hurts too much. I cannot soak it. I am flushing with peroxide and alcohol and applying neosporin to the gauze. I am reading so many different ways to care for it. Does anyone know if I am doing the right thing?
John 16-Sep-2011 07:51
@Karen: Applying Polysporin before bandaging seams not to be the wrong thing. It's containing antibiotics which prevents infections. I'm using "Bepanthene Plus" which is a disinfecting ointment without antibiotics. I had my surgery on the left foot on Sept 01/2011 and on the right foot on Sept 07/2011 (as you) and healing seams to go well - in opposition to the first surgery in Jan 2011. I'm actually documenting the healing process, because I think permanent toenail removal and its recovery is an "unsolved" issue (almost after you come at home after surgery). If you're interested you can have a look to my photo stream on www.flickr.com/photos/nomoretoenails/
John 16-Sep-2011 07:37
@Karen: Applying Polysporin before bandaging seams not to be the wrong thing. It's containing antibiotics which prevents infections. I'm using "Bepanthene Plus" which is a disinfecting ointment without antibiotics. I had my surgery on the left foot on Sept 01/2011 and on the right foot on Sept 07/2011 (as you) and healing seams to go well - in opposition to the first surgery in Jan 2011. I'm actually documenting the healing process, because I think permanent toenail removal and its recovery is an "unsolved" issue (almost after you come at home after surgery). If you're interested you can have a look to my photo stream on www.flickr.com/photos/nomoretoenails/
John 16-Sep-2011 07:26
@Karen: Applying Polysporin before bandaging seams not to be the wrong thing. It's containing antibiotics which prevents infections. I'm using "Bepanthene Plus" which is a disinfecting ointment without antibiotics. I had my surgery on the left foot on Sept 01/2011 and on the right foot on Sept 07/2011 (as you) and healing seams to go well - in opposition to the first surgery in Jan 2011. I'm actually documenting the healing process, because I think permanent toenail removal and its recovery is an "unsolved" issue (almost after you come at home after surgery). If you're interested you can have a look to my photo stream on www.flickr.com/photos/nomoretoenails/
Karen 14-Sep-2011 14:51
I get very scared after reading some of the stories on this site.It seems like everyone has been told all different ways how to look after your toes after surgery.I just hope and pray that i'am doing it right ,i was told to soak the toes once a day in luke warm water,then apply lots of polysporin and bandage them.It is pretty hard considreing that it is all 10 of them.
Karen 14-Sep-2011 14:43
I had all ten toe nails permanently removed Sept 7/2011.They seem to be doing ok,but i fell alot of pain and discomfort at the end of my toes.I go to see the specialist this Friday ,which will make it a week past.I hope the healing will continue as well as it seems to have been doing.
John 10-Sep-2011 11:42
After my first surgery I followed the doc's advice to soak the toe three times a day - and I got an infection. Ten days ago I had my second surgery. Just adding some disinfecting ointment twice a day, covering it by a sterile wound dressing and bandaging is perfect! I think the most important thing is to have a "wet" wound healing and to ensure fluids can get out of the wound. Avoid to get a close scab.
Guest 27-Aug-2011 22:47
My dr has me soaking three times a day in a bath fresh lukewarm water + salt + white vinegar then applying germicide cream and a loose bandage. Maybe y'all should try that and see if it helps,
RobynLouise29-Jul-2011 19:56
Hi guys. Im new to this website so bare with me :)
8 days ago I had a Total Nail Avulsion on my right, big toe.
It went well & didnt hurt at all.
But its been throbbing, red, oozy & quite sore.
Plus its got a funny smell to it.
I wasnt really given any advice on how to care for it.
Ive been soaking it once a day in warm water & salt, putting vaseline & fresh dressing on.
Im not sure whether to wipe all the pus off, or leave it, as the podiatrist told me just to wipe around the wound. Im so confused! Please help :) xx
Geraint 28-Jul-2011 14:32
Can any of you help me? It's 7 weeks since I had my big toenail permanently removed. I dress it every day and soak for 3 minutes in salt water. Alternate days I put on an antiseptic cream.
I'm on holiday in China so can't visit my chiropodist to ask if it's normal, so here goes, turning to fellow sufferers!
Each day there is a growing layer of ugly yellow mucus on where the toenail used to be, Is this normal? Should I try and clean it off or leave it alone?
Thanks for this website. Crazy but really helpful!
Nick 28-Jul-2011 11:01
Hi guys.

Had a fungally infected big right toe for probably around 3 years now, so it's truly embedded. Will I still be able to get the nail permanently removed and just have a nailbed? If it would just be the injections and an op to cut out the entire nail just leaving the bed I think that would definitely be worth it because I hate this fungal nail - I'm 18 y/o and it's embarrassing and unsightly.

Going to book a drs appointment ASAP for a discussion about this. I hate the thought of injections/an op but it's definitely better than this nail!
Nina11 26-Jul-2011 21:40
Hi yah, I'm so glad I came across this site, I don't feel like such a hypochondriac over my blimmin toe anymore! 4 years ago I had a bad ingrown toenail on my left big toe, my GP removed the nail, cut away some tissue and the ingrown nail. As a lot of you had mentioned it was the local aesthetic in the toe that hurt the most during the procedure...after this I was getting infection after infection and a lump appeared on the corner of my toe and was painful. So I then had the nail removed again, the nail bed cauterized and the lump removed and tested (which came back clear). Again I kept getting infections then I began to have problems with my actual foot and could no longer bend my toe. They said I could have CRPS from where too much surgery has damaged the nerves and bone in my foot. I went to a pain management clinic but because the lump was growing back and bits of toe nail they referred me back to orthopaedics. X-rays had shown a very small amount of scar tissue on the bone of my toe but didn't see that as being a concern. So I underwent a 3rd op but nothing had changed. They decided to deal with the pain was prescribed these strong painkillers which did help, then about 2 months later had a 4th op. I was very happy with the outcome and I was able to bend my toe and where normal shoes after 3 years of not being able to! But now there's bits of nail growing back again and its very tender and keeps catching, thankfully my foot isn't suffering but I get cramp a lot in my toe and hurts when I walk too much. I've now been referred to a foot specialist. It's been 4 years of all this, I haven't worn a pair of heals during this time and its only been the last few months can wear shoes rather than live in flip flops with backs to them coz my toe is too weak for normal ones. Its been an absolute nightmare and all over a toe! A TOE!!!!
Kelly 14-Jul-2011 14:54
Well I just had my second toe done. My first nail actually came off during the procedure but this time it held on strong (keeping my fingers crossed it stays on). The worst is the needles but they are totally managable. Have to take my bandage off this morning but I am too big of a baby to do it myself - my sister is coming over to do it. I'm not sure what it will look like because last time my nail came off - I'm sure it will look strange not having nail on each side. Pain in not too bad just throbbing which I am hopeful will go away after another day. I appreciate this site and being able to read other posts.
lynn 11-Jul-2011 17:28
i recently had my left toenail removed, dr said to change the dressing in the morning my toe has been in so much pain i did not change the dressing that day i waited. when i did get the nerve up to change it the gauze was so stuck to the nail bed i could not get it of f i had to soak it in warm water to lossen the gauze. and now im affraid that that was the wrong thing to do. i feel alot of throbbing and almost a numbing sensation on the toe and front of foot, almost like the skin is pulling the tissue around it.. my foot is swollen and red ive been in flip flop shoes and today was the first time placing a sock and crock shoes on very uncomfortable. ive been off of my feet and elevating my foot. if anyone has any advise on this please post it thanks D.Col
effildIncitle 11-Jun-2011 12:32
I just book marked your blog on Digg and StumbleUpon.I enjoy reading your commentaries.
Tommy 08-Jun-2011 02:34
Keith
I had the same feeling on my right big toe nail which was treated with phenol about one year ago. The feeling lasted about 6 months after the nail bed healed. It eventually went away. I have not had any similar feelings in the left big toenail which was also treated with phenol in April this year.
Darlene 07-Jun-2011 16:56
I had my right big toenail removed yesterday. I had my left second toenail removed a few years ago also it looks fairly good on the left . I do not regret it as there is no longer pain on the left it should take about two weeks and the big toe will be doing good I had it burned so it will not grow back but this time seems more painful other than that I will be doing another toe in two weeks, wit no regrets.
Darlene 07-Jun-2011 16:54
I had my right big toenail removed yesterday. I had my left second toenail removed a feew years ago also it looks fairly good on the left and no pain I do not regret it as there is n longer pain on the left it should take about two weeks and the big toe will be doing good I had it burned so it will not grow back but this time seems more painful other than that I will be doing another toe in two weeks, wit no regrets
keith 06-Jun-2011 18:33
i had two ingrown nails taken out one on both feet and they used an acid of some sort to stop the nail from growing back and now when i straighten my leg and extend my foot then curl my big toe it pulls and has a sharp pain . if any1 could tell me if they had this happen to them before. did the doctor mess up?
Guest 12-May-2011 10:48
I was just wondering if anyone could let me know it they have had the surgery with the stitches as I am being advised by my GP and my Chiropodist to have the incision surgery as opposed to the phenol procedure to remove both my big toenails which are both infected as well. As everyone on this site has either had it done or is having it done, your opinions would be greatly appreciated. I am due to have them done on Wednesday the 18th may. Thanks
Jamie Osborn 09-May-2011 23:10
A Dr. Stephen Berkey in Plano, Texas over-cauterized my left big toenail after a simple ingrown toenail removal surgery. He left the acid in for 10+ minutes leaving a hole in my toe. After a month of wound care with a new doctor, my nail is dying and will fall off and never grow back. You can't sue a doctor in Texas, so I can only report him to the board and take him to small claims court. He has mamed me and I will have to forever live with an alien looking toe. I am scared to death it will be too sensitive and painful and never be able to be polished. Any ideas? I am disabled as it is with a bad back, so this is not what I needed in my life. I am so sad and scared.
Nina 09-May-2011 03:34
How long does it take to heal?
Nina 09-May-2011 03:03
How long does it take to heal?
Jennifer Analco 06-May-2011 14:18
Wonderful pictures! I'm doing a report on office surgical procedures for my school. Your step-by-step photos is almost being right there in the room assisting with the procedure! Thank you for sharing your pictures and getting me an "A" on my report!
cally 29-Apr-2011 12:50
hi, Tommy ive checked out your pics , very useful to make comaprisons to myself, i had my toenail removed 1 week ago and judgeing by your pics mine is looking ok, thanks,
mike 26-Apr-2011 18:41
hello, i had my right big toenail removed before christmas,it seemed to be healing fine but now it has become painfull an kinda scabed over at top of toe anyone have any advice?
Tommy 14-Apr-2011 20:54
Today is two weeks since my left big toenail was removed permanently. I had my right one removed permanently with phenol burn in May 2010 with good results (my story on this one is further below). I had my two week post-op checkup today and the podiatrist said it was healing well. Mine was done because of toenail fungus that eventually caused ingrown toenails. I have also documented in pics my toenail removal and healing process. Checkout my flikr page. You could find it under “daytommy2002” -- do a people search. I did not do any soaks, just after the shower in the morning I cleaned the wound and used Amerigel and bandaged it I did the same in the evening. The nail less toes don’t look that bad…it does look different but unless someone closely looks it is hardly noticeable. It looks great compared to flaky white nails. Happy healing to all….and keep us posted. This board has been a great resource.
Lesley Ann 13-Apr-2011 23:14
Hi...I had big toenail removed 2 days ago at the accident and emergency clinic at my local hospital due to my nail being displaced by a horse standing on my toe and then twisting causing the toenail to be pulled away from the nail bed on the left side and at the bottom of my toe. They began with 4 injections...not too bad....slight sting but perfectly bearable. They then started to remove the nail but half way through I felt sharp pains so they stopped and gave me 2 more injections which stopped the pain entirely. During the procedure I felt a bit sick ...due to my blood pressure dropping....but if you lie down your blood pressure rises and the feeling goes away. I won’t lie....it wasn’t pleasant and it took about 35 minutes to remove. As the nail was undamaged they implanted the nail back into the nail bed. It was bandaged for 2 days...I was advised to keep bandage on for 4 days...but as it has blood on it I decided to remove.{Please bear in mind I have a toenail so infection is less likely} I was pleasantly surprised how good it looked although the nail is chalk white and the skin proud and very red at the base of the nail. I cleaned the nail with antiseptic and warm water and redressed. I also sprayed with savlon anticeptic spray. I have no cuts or open wounds. I have been unable to wear my shoes but wore sandals and thank goodness for Ugg boots as they are bearable. I remove the dressing when I’m home as this lets the toe air and prevents the skin from becoming white and weepy. A little Vaseline or sudocream keeps the skin from drying out. My foot is also quite puffy and all my toes a little swollen which makes walking uncomfortable. I take 1 x Paracetamol and 1 x Nurofen together ...one is a painkiller and one an anti inflammatory which work well to keep the toe very comfortable. This is only day 3 and I was out all day today painfree although I do walk a little like a penguin x x
Lesley Ann 13-Apr-2011 23:13
Hi...I had big toenail removed 2 days ago at the accident and emergency clinic at my local hospital due to my nail being displaced by a horse standing on my toe and then twisting causing the toenail to be pulled away from the nail bed on the left side and at the bottom of my toe. They began with 4 injections...not too bad....slight sting but perfectly bearable. They then started to remove the nail but half way through I felt sharp pains so they stopped and gave me 2 more injections which stopped the pain entirely. During the procedure I felt a bit sick ...due to my blood pressure dropping....but if you lie down your blood pressure rises and the feeling goes away. I won’t lie....it wasn’t pleasant and it took about 35 minutes to remove. As the nail was undamaged they implanted the nail back into the nail bed. It was bandaged for 2 days...I was advised to keep bandage on for 4 days...but as it has blood on it I decided to remove.{Please bear in mind I have a toenail so infection is less likely} I was pleasantly surprised how good it looked although the nail is chalk white and the skin proud and very red at the base of the nail. I cleaned the nail with antiseptic and warm water and redressed. I also sprayed with savlon anticeptic spray. I have no cuts or open wounds. I have been unable to wear my shoes but wore sandals and thank goodness for Ugg boots as they are bearable. I remove the dressing when I’m home as this lets the toe air and prevents the skin from becoming white and weepy. A little Vaseline or sudocream keeps the skin from drying out. My foot is also quite puffy and all my toes a little swollen which makes walking uncomfortable. I take 1 x Paracetamol and 1 x Nurofen together ...one is a painkiller and one an anti inflammatory which work well to keep the toe very comfortable. This is only day 3 and I was out all day today painfree although I do walk a little like a penguin x x
Jen 08-Apr-2011 03:23
So it's been about 10 days since I had my big toenail permanently removed. I haven't missed any work and just wear a flip flop on that foot. I have been soaking my foot in Epsom salts for about 10 minutes twice a day. Then I apply Silvadene cream (doc prescribed it) and a gauze bandage. I think the Epsom salts soaks have made all the difference. I've not been in any real pain at all. This permanent toenail removal has been so much easier to deal with than the previous nonpermanent removals. I am so grateful! IAs soon as it heals, I'm slapping on a fake nail and wearing sandals to show it off!
Trenia 05-Apr-2011 00:47
Hello, I had both of my big toe nails removed Feb. 22 of this year. It appears to be healing but a slow process. Also am an African American woman and since the removal the skin a top of my toes is much darker now since i had the procedure done. Right after the surgery if seemed to burn and now it is very dark. Will it remain this way or will my natural color return? Has this happen to any one else.
Suzy-x- 31-Mar-2011 18:05
Hi - thanks for the pictures and your account of your procedure, mine was very much the same..... i'm from the UK, had my right toenail removed when I was 13 under general anaesthetic - which was 20 years ago, and had stitches, but 4 days ago, I had my left toe nail surgery and now they do a different procedure and use local anaesthetic! The most painful bit that day was the 4 needles in my toe ! ! ! But... I coped. I've been managing for 5 days now and the throbbing is still ongoing but each day it is slightly better than the previous. I'm in this for the long haul now, so got to wait for it to mend. Looking forward to painting the toe just like the rest and you can't tell. Best wishes to all those who do this, just try to cope with the soreness - I know it will eventually go and you can still get some sleep so it's not all bad !
libby 29-Mar-2011 10:39
HaD both big toenails removed last thursday to cure my ingrowing problem, i want mine to grown back nice as i love painting my toenails in the summer, the doctors were not helpful. i assumed i could go back to work 3 days later but no chance !! does anyone know when does it stop throbbing ? how long before my toenails grown back ? and why cant i get them wet and how long before i can shower ? when can i take dressings off ?
Jen 29-Mar-2011 02:33
Had the nail on my left big toe permanently removed today. The worst part of the procedure is the shots to numb the toe. Of course that bit of pain is worth it when I think of the alternative! I start my epsom salt soaks in the morning. My doctor said it should heal fairly quickly. When I've had this nail removed before, the pain was excruciating; it throbbed for days and took months before I could wear real shoes. She said that it shouldn't "hurt" but will likely feel "uncomfortable." I'm good with that! I'm planning on going to work tomorrow sporting a big bandage and flip flops. ;-) I will keep you posted.
Rachel 28-Mar-2011 16:20
Mike,
Have you tried soaking your toes in Peroxide? I had an issue with fungus and that was the only thing that helped. I took 2 parts peroxide to 1 part water and soaked for 10-15 minutes before bed. After a week or so I saw great improvement. Give it a try
Meredith 25-Mar-2011 01:21
@kirsty

The way I knew one of my toes was infected was that it suddenly started hurting (and I mean really hurting) during my epsom soaks when it didn't hurt before. Also, the skin on top of the toe was too smooth (but not really swollen) and didn't wrinkle like the other toe.
Kelly 23-Mar-2011 21:54
I had the nail removed on the big toe of my left foot, about 20 yrs ago. At, the time the doctor said he was destroying the root and nail bed so that it would not grow back. Unfortunately, it did. It has taken years for it to grow, but it's back, and very deformed. Recently, I have noticed that the toe itself is swollen and discolored, and the whole toe hurts terribly, but especially the joint. I noticed I was limping earlier today. Shoes are becoming a problem....soooo I guess it's off to the doc I go, again. Thanks for the pics!
Mike 23-Mar-2011 03:51
This is the most useful conversation I have found. I have toenail fungus on every one of my toes. I first noticed it 8 years ago on one toe, but had no idea that it was an issue and knew nothing about the fungus. I also hate going to doctors and had very little time anyway as I was doing a phd while working full time etc. Over the years I just dealt with the issue with nail clippers. I have done my own removal of nail operations dozens of times on every nail. It got to the point that I realized I would never win, so 2 years ago I went to see a podiatrist to tell him to remove the nails and to apply phenol, but he was not very helpful and I moved to Hawaii shortly afterwards. I have even researched getting hold of phenol so I can do it myself as it is going to be a nightmare getting to a podiatrist over here.

The biggest problem I have found is that the fungus has cause deformed and ingrown nails, and when I prise out and remove a nail myself, if it was ingrown, I can't find anyway to stop nail tissue growing back into the same gaps left by the old ingrown nail. In addition when I remove a nail, there is often another soft nail underneath, and there is always fungus intermingled with skin underneath that. So a new nail growns back over fungus anyway. I just don't seem to be able to destroy the fungus. I try using a nail file to file away what is left after the nail is removed and that seems to trim back but never remove.

Has anyone ever found a solution for that? Or is the application of phenol the only way to prevent nail growth in certain areas?
kirsty 20-Mar-2011 22:26
just to let people know its kirsty again i had my nail removed andi didnt feel a thing at all it was completely painless!!! so if any1 is having it done dont worry at all!! i was almost havin panic attacks beforehand bt it was completly painless i promise! it looks gross now thou i was just wondering if anyone knew how to tell if it gets infected or anything?
meg 17-Mar-2011 01:58
how long will it take to heal if you get your toenails 6 removed permanatly
kirsty 16-Mar-2011 21:49
hi im having my toe nail removed 2moro n im sooo scared does it hurt really bad??? ive just watched a video on youtube and its made me feel sick im so scared!!!
Clay 15-Mar-2011 20:04
Also, what kind of doctor/surgeon did you use?

Just a regular "podiatrist"? Or someone more specialized?

Thanks!
Clay 15-Mar-2011 19:57
Thank you for the photos and description! I've lost my right toenail about 4 times, due to repeated trauma, or having it removed. It always grows back, but then gets injured and needs to be removed again. I injured it again this weekend (playing Ultimate Frisbee, and yes my shoes fit correctly). So now I have a purple toenail that is still attached to my toe but actually not attached at the nailbed or matrix. So I think my best option is to have the matrix fully cauterized this time. Your site is the only one on the Internet with good information about this procedure. Thank you!
Jen 09-Mar-2011 04:30
@Fred - Hi. Just read your post. What kind of doctor performed your surgery? How did s/he determine that surgery was warranted instead of permanent toenail removal done in the doctor's office? I'm ready for it but want to go to a doctor other than my dermatologist who has been treating it for years. Anxious to hear everyone's suggestions. Thanks!
Guest 20-Feb-2011 21:15
Just had the sides of toenails on big toes removed, with chemical at the bottom, so they won't grow afain. My podiatrist told me they have to heal from the inside out, so doesn't want it to scab. If it does, I hveto call him I soak them twice i day with epsome salts in the water.
fred 17-Feb-2011 20:54
hi, i just had my left toenail removed , not chemically, but actual removal from the bone due to the extreme thickness of the nail. the surgery took 1 hour and i was given 2-3 weeks off of work for healing and told not to remove the bandages at all or get it wet because the bone is exposed underneath the dressing, but just to keep applying more bandages over when it bleeds more. i was also given a special shoe to stabalize the foot and told to keep my foot elevated over my heart for the next 24-36 hours to minimize throbbing and bleeding. they said if it gets wet, infection can set in and once that happens, i will need to be on IV antibiotics for up to 2 months and if it doesnt heal, i could lose the whole toe completely. so it is crucial to keep it dry and clean until stiches come off next week, then follow up with further instructions. anyway, thats my experience and last night it hurt like hell until the pain meds kicked in. hope this helps. i need to get the right one removed later as well. when i got it partially removed from a different doc, a year ago she told me it wouldnet grow back and it did and even more severely ingrown too. get second opinions if your not sure about the doctors proceedures. the doctor who did this surgery yesterday is a podiatrist who had done many of these proceedures with success and i trust he knows what hes doing.. hope this helps. good luck!
Tommy 15-Feb-2011 01:39
Kate:
Is it a total permanent removal or partial (sides only) removal? If it is only partial then you should back on your feet. Your toe will be numb for a couple of hours. If it is a total removal with a phenol burn...you will have some pain for a couple days....also you may have to wear a surgical shoe/flip-flops to keep pressure of your toe. So the bottom line it depends on what your surgery is. Good luck and keep us posted. This site has tons of good info
kate 13-Feb-2011 22:34
was wondering if you could help. im having my right toe nail removed tomorrow and the dr who recommended it said i can go back to work and walk on it straight away, but with all the comments on this, is that a big lie my dr has told me?
Tommy 09-Feb-2011 02:41
Kelly:
I think you said that you only did the phenol burn of the sides...so scabbing is part of the healing process. The scabs will eventually fall off. Keep the wound protected. Since you only did the sides...your nail should start to grow out in another couple of weeks...it may take a good six months for the nail to grow. See what it looks like...depending on how the nail root was killed the nail will take its shape. Best wishes healing...and keep us posted.
Kelly 08-Feb-2011 18:55
Is scabbing over on the sides a good thing? My entire nail came off when he was doing the ingrown procedure so I don't have a nail at all - when he was cleaning it a couple weeks ago he accidently cut the skin on my toe (ouch) but now the corners are scabbing and stuff - will this eventually fall off?
Tommy 01-Feb-2011 03:20
Adrienne: Healing takes about 4 to 6 weeks. I would say at least 8 weeks. It the 10 week period you should see complete healing. I am assuming you had a phenol burn of the nail matrix. So you are going to have a tender toe for sometime. If you could get a post-op shoe/surgical shoe that may help. You don't want to put any pressure on the toe...it will be very painful. Also make sure you keep it covered and use an antibiotic gel...such as silverdine if it is available in Japan. If you see any sought of infection (i.e. warm toe, swelling, throbbing pain ) see a doc. You don't want infection especially MRSA types. Did you have ingrown toenails or was it for fungal infection? I had surgery less than an year ago (mine was due to long time fungal infection). You could read my story below. Good luck healing...I am sure you will be happy that you don't have to deal with this issue any more.
Adrienne 27-Jan-2011 02:11
What a great resource! Who knew so many people had the same problems I do with my toe.
I just had my right big toenail removed permanently on January 3rd after years of partial and complete removals (to no avail), and am concerned about thee healing process. Unfortunately, I did this on a vacation home to the states, and have since returned to Japan, where they're not too keen on removing the toenail (or so it seems), so I'm stuck going to a dermatologist for follow-up should I need it. As I have not had good experiences with him before, I would like to avoid it--I soak my toe twice a day with a sanitary solution, cover the wound with iodine and bandage it up.
My questions are: (a) Should it still be too tender to wear more than really wide-toed boots at this point? Even my sneaker-type-shoes I've had to resort to for work aren't great, but I have little option. (b) There's a small white lump developing towards the side of the wound--has anyone else experienced this? (c) Should it still be oozing through my band-aids at this point?

Thank you!
Tommy 19-Jan-2011 01:22
To the guest going to the beach in March: You need to rest the toe for the first two weeks. After that walking is fine. Running or putting any pressure on the toe is not recommended until at least 6 weeks post surgery. I walked on the treadmill and use a high enough gradient to make it good workout.
Charlie 17-Jan-2011 23:53
I am going to the GP tomorrow to explore toenail removal. Both of my little toenails grow in backwards -pointing to the ankle - and always have. When they got long enough I just grabbed them and tore them out. But now that I am older and my toes are fatter and my fingers are arthritic I can't do that any more. I have the little nippers but can't bend the toe myself with one hand and control the nipper with the other to trim the nail. So I am thinking it is time to look into permanent removal.

Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences. I got through the pictures OK and started reading posts from the bottom up. It didn't take long before y'all had me feeling woozy and I had to lie down. I manage the pain better than I do the thought of it. I guess I will need the GP to give me another one of her magical I don't care pills (Xanax) that got me in the dentist's chair with a BP low enough that they would perform an implant procedure.
Charlie 17-Jan-2011 23:50
I am going to the GP tomorrow to explore toenail removal. Both of my little toenails grow in backwards -pointing to the ankle - and always have. When they got long enough I just grabbed them and tore them out. But now that I am older and my toes are fatter and my fingers are arthritic I can't do that any more. I have the little nippers but can't bend the toe myself with one hand and control the nipper with the other to trim the nail. So I am thinking it is time to look into permanent removal.

Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences. I got through the pictures OK and started reading posts from the bottom up. It didn't take long before y'all had me feeling woozy and I had to lie down. I manage the pain better than I do the thought of it. I guess I will need the GP to give me another one of her magical I don't care pills (Xanax) that got me in the dentist's chair with a BP low enough that they would perform an implant procedure.
Guest 17-Jan-2011 07:19
I'm going to go traveling March break and will be on the beaches a lot. I just had this same procedure done and am hoping someone can answer this question. If I want it to heal in 2 months time would running daily be an available option, or would this extend the amount of time it requires to heal?
Tommy 17-Jan-2011 05:33
@ Julie: You could get a post-op/surgical shoe. That will allow you to ware a sock to keep your toes warm. Also you should use an antibiotic gel or cream so that you don't get any infection. It takes a good 8 weeks to get a normal appearance. Hope you heel soon.
Carol 17-Jan-2011 02:38
Hi Everybody. This is the first time in my life that I come across such an interesting conversation on toes! I had my toes- three on each foot- removed so many years ago- I have even forgotten the pain and discomfort. I come from South Africa and the surgery was done back home. I had both ingorwn toenails- and after several attempts to rectify the ingrown townails, I developed fungi. I remember that my poor children could not even speak loudly in my room- the pain was so bad. But I eventually healed. Now I use ordinary artifical toenails. I stick them on with crazy glue and at night I simply peel them off. I only wear them when I wear fancy sandals. I cannot wear them when I wear shoes- they drive me insane. I have been thinking of having toenails tattood? Does anybody know if it would work? I miss my toenails- but I don't miss the pain of ingrown toenails and the discomfort of that goes with it!
Julie 13-Jan-2011 22:21
I had my right big toenail permanently removed on 12/30/2010 (made for an interesting New Year's party where I was paranoid of people stepping on my foot). I'm just at the 2 week mark today and the toe is still oozing and raw. I'm in flipflops in the dead of winter and probably will be wearing these for the next few weeks. I've been keeping the toe covered. From what I hear, reading through the other messages here, and also from a few people at my work that have had the same procedure, healing is quite slow and takes a good six weeks or longer. My general practitioner did the removal. I had no antibiotics and no special creams and was told just to soak the foot 2-3 times per day in either warm water, warm water with sea salt, or warm water with epsom salt. I've been going the warm water with epsom salt route. After soaking, I was told to put Vaseline on the toe, and then put the dressing on. Someone at work who had the same procedure said her podiatrist had her use Silvadene cream on the toe instead of Vaseline. I called my doc after the end of the first week when I had one night of difficulty sleeping because of toe pain and asked about the Silvadene. They called it in to the pharmacy and I've been using that instead of the Vaseline, but honestly, haven't noticed much improvement. Little by little. Flip flops in the snow will have to be my winter fashion statement :)
jen wren 04-Jan-2011 18:08
had toe nails removed 4 weeks ago still yukky so still using the salt baths is this normal cant get shoes boots on even socks hurt is there any kind of cream that could help the healing process just hope this is the end of sore feet....
Guest 03-Jan-2011 05:03
@Jade:
You may want to talk about this with your parents first. Since you are still under 18, any surgical procedure will need parental consent. Also from what you have mentioned most likely outcome will be permanent removal of the toenails. That is no toenails ever. So you and your parents will have to consider all options. Please consult a good podiatrist. Go to a different person from the last one you consulted. Also if you do consider permanent removal do one toe at a time. This way the pain will be minimized. Keep us posted .
Jade 02-Jan-2011 22:53
Hey, im 15 and 3 years ago i got an ingrowing toenail. it wasnt to bad at first. but then the left one started to ingrow to. september 2008 i had an operation to remove them and then let them grow back normally and hopefully healthy. they didnt they grow back worse. December 29th 2009 i had my 2nd operation, to remove my whole nail, but the sides were spose to have been killed off. i had 12 stitches overall. having them removed was the most painful thing ever. now i have two sort of clumps i suppose of nail in the midle of my toe. they dont even reach the top. i cant stand to look at my feet anymore and none of my friends know. the only thing is just as i was adjusting to it, these sort of spikes of nail grow upwards around the side. i think its nail because i can cut them down so they dont catch anything, but it hurts a little if i try to move them from side to side. any help and or advice. much appreciated.
Nettie 29-Dec-2010 16:55
Hi, I had a full toenail ablation on both big toes on 10 November and am concerned that they are not healing as well as they should. Both are still extremely sore and although they dry out if I leave them uncovered for a few hours they do still weep under dressings. I have been wearing shoes and going out for walks and this is probably the main cause but the pain is so bad sometimes, especially after a salt bath and re-dressing. The toes are not 'hot' or particularly swollen but very tender around the cuticle area and I am concerned that there may be an infection. I am not keen to go back to my podiatrist as she hurt me so much on my last appointment by scrapping away the surface area of the nailbed and rubbing roughly when bathing and drying the area. Should I ask my GP's opinion or is this not the correct procedure?
Tommy 24-Dec-2010 23:18
Damian:
Did you have fungal infection? or was it ingrown? It takes about 6-8 weeks to heal completely. Sometimes upto 10 weeks. If your toe is swollen or warm you may have an infection. Call your doc. Did you have any follow-up visits? Make sure the infection does not spread to the bone. Also do you apply any antibiotic cream or gel when dressing the wound? If not you should ask for a prescription. Good luck healing
Damian 22-Dec-2010 21:12
Hi,

I had a full toenail ablation on both my big toes on 14th November 2010. The big toe on the right foot seems to have healed quite well. It is still very red but there is no real pain although I still have to salt bath it every day and dress the toe. The toe on the left foot toe is still very red raw and oozes quite a bit through the dressing and 'stings'. I have already had a course of medication for infection on this foot. It is now coming up to 5 weeks and I am worried the left foot is taking too long to heal. What is the average healing time for this type of procedure 6-8 weeks???
fairymnster06-Dec-2010 23:03
Hi guys, i had a bilateral toe wedge resection may 26 2010 and then found myself back in theatre for a second go at my left toe on October 26th 2010. After much arguing pre-op about what was going to be dome, i woke up from the anaesthetic to find i did in fact have my whole nail removed ( but not permanently) because it shattered during the procedure( could be just a story i dont know) anyhow the reason for my posting here is its now 7 weeks today since the op and im still having to go and have it dressed twice a week which i dont think is adequate as i keep leaking through the dressing and its still very red and sore and now way near looking like some of the pics ive seen of peoples healed foot at 4 weeks here on the net. I'm beginning to feel like im getting fobbed off about my concerns, im just over it, we're now heading into summer here in Australia and i still cant have a proper shower, bath or even go for a swim because its still open and oozing quite a lot and its quite stressful for me because i can constantly smell it, saw their podiatrist yesterday over some concerns i had only to be told everything is normal and theres no infection blah blah blah and that if i wanted they could show me some pics of ones that are really bad. I'm so over this if it doesnt work this time i wont be doing it again or at least not here in this town in this hospital....
Guest 19-Nov-2010 04:07
hey I just had my left big toenail taken off. because I had a toenail fungus. two weeks before I went to my foot doctor my toenail was smelly and clear guck coming from it. I went to the doctor the first time and he said your nail doesnt look so good, try soaking it with some epsom salt in water for a couple weeks then come back and see me. So I soaked it with epsom salt in water for 2 weeks. the toenail no longer smelled and no more goop coming out of it. When I went to the doctor the second time he said the toe looked better but it needed to be removed becuase the nail was very thick. i got it removed a couple days ago. Its doing good so far. I have to keep soaking it twice a day in epsom salt water. one tablespoon of salt per 1 quart of water. It stings a little bit but it feels great everytime I soak it. then I put neosporin on it and bandage it up and put on socks with sandals.
bryguy 12-Nov-2010 03:22
I was just reading something on that but I don't know if anyone is doing it yet.
Guest 09-Nov-2010 19:10
Has anybody managed to have their lost toenails replaced? or come across a nail surgeon who has reconstructed it?
Guest 09-Nov-2010 18:21
Hi, I had my big toenail removed 6 weeks ago, my toe is healing well, its scabbing over. i bought a leg cover for showers and baths. this might sound a daft question but do you think i could have a lovely bubble bath? without the cover?
Guest 09-Nov-2010 18:20
Hi, I had my big toenail removed 6 weeks ago, my toe is healing well, its scabbing over. i bought a leg cover for showers and baths. this might sound a daft question but do you think i could have a lovely bubble bath? without the cover?
Tommy 09-Nov-2010 04:34
Red: . It takes a good 6 weeks to heal completely. Sometimes longer. The nail bed looks red for at least 2 weeks.That is normal. However, any issues such as diabetes, vascular issues could complicate and delay the healing. Always be on the lookout for any form of infection. The doc should have advised your mom to schedule an appointment at the 2 week mark after removal, to inspect the wound and see if it is healing correctly. Call the doc office if you have any concerns. If it has been 2 weeks since surgery schedule an appointment
Red 08-Nov-2010 20:32
My mom had vascular surgery on her leg. A few days after her surgery her big toe started hurting very bad. About three weeks after surgery she finally went to the doctor and he said she had an ingrown toe nail that was pressing on her bone and nerve. He partially removed that portion. The pain continued a few days later he removed the entire toe nail. The nail bed looks like it has frost bite and the entire toe is red. She has not been back to the Podiatrist although I think she should. Could vascular issues cause the toe nail not to heal properly?
Tommy 05-Nov-2010 09:47
Bell, he could go to work....but he won't be able to put on a construction boot.....the nerves at the end toe need to heal. Any pressure from the boot will be painful.
Bell 04-Nov-2010 21:14
My husband is due to have big toe nail removed after years of problems. He works in construction and doctor told him he'd be back at work in two weeks. After reading this site, we are thinking this can't be.
Guest 31-Oct-2010 03:29
gayle I dont recomend it i had bad luck and infections from it and when you loose your nail nothing is comfortable the nerves are sensative and you can say good bye to high heels
Tommy 29-Oct-2010 03:45
Gayle: I too had nail fungus. You could read my detail story from July 18 2010. "Permanent" is the way to go...because there is always a chance the nail comes back and creates issues. Just be forewarned that your toe may look somewhat different without the nail. But after a few weeks you will be used to it and it does not look bad at all....It takes a good 6 weeks to heal completely. Sometimes a tad longer. You should be able to go to work the next day...but don't expect to ware closed toed shoes for at least two weeks, a post-op shoe or open toe sandal will be fine. You should do it during warmer months so you could ware open toe shoes or sandals. After the surgery they will put a large pressure bandage, after your shower the next morning you could take it off and then start dressing your wound as instructed. There will be some drainage form the wound for at least 2 weeks or longer. You should avoid any physical activity like running/joging for about two weeks. At three weeks you could ware a sneaker and workout; but don't put any pressure on the toe. Let it heal. Always keep it covered....if you see any sign of infection, that is warm toe, swollen after a few days of surgery, etc call your doctor immediately and let him or her know. Always use an antibiotic cream or gel. The toe does take a more bulbous look on the top of the toe. It does not look bad, but does look different. Unless it is closely examined it is hard to say that there is no toenail. You will not get a good sense of what your toe may look like permanently until a few weeks passes by... you could check my flickr page enter the following after the .com photos/13540410@N02/4730846631/
Gayle 28-Oct-2010 05:58
Oh gee, I talked to my doctor today about permanently removing the big toe nails because of the nail fungus I have been fighting for years. I just want to be able to wear open toe shoes. I did have one big toe nail removal which was not permanent a couple of years ago and the fungus returned. I am embrassed to let anybody see my feet and of course it's difficut to find comfortable shoes. I am hoping that if I decide to have the big toe nails permanently removed will it look better or look worse. Can anybody tell me this. I go to my podiatrist every 3 months to have the nails cut and have been doing this for years. He tells me I won't miss the nails but reading some of the comments has scared me. Would like some input.
sadabout toes 23-Oct-2010 01:16
Hi Tommy and all I just went to foot doc old one not new yet was too scared to switch docs dont want anymore problems the regrowth is staying on top of the skin so far and hopefully will just need to keep being drilled down like the other toe . Have to keep an eye still on the side that was redone still could have regrowth also but I pray not God knows i cant have any more procedures . on top of all this I am getting a divorce hubby couldnt handle my health problems . Been a bad year to say the least .
anyway Tommy glad you are healing well that is great
Tommy 20-Oct-2010 02:47
SAD ABOUT TOES AND OTHERS: Yes, my toe has thankfully healed well...Still there is skin peeling away from time to time, but according to the Doc that is to be expected at least for some time. My other toe has not given me any trouble thus far...at some point I may have to remove that toenail as well...if it starts to act-up.....may be next year. For now I am thankful that everything has healed. SAToes did you check with a new Doc? Is the re- growth giving you trouble? Keep us posted.
sad about toes 17-Oct-2010 01:49
Glad to help Ozzies toes . Sounds like Tommy is healing well . the scab should come of little by little in the shower . you are right about 7 weeks which is good mine went over 10 one went 12 but that was because they didnt get the whole nail and had regrowth . Just keep a eye on it and tell him to still baby his toe so it can still heal and glad he is doing better :)
Ozzie Toes 16-Oct-2010 04:00
Forgot to mention SAToes...that I took your advice after our last comment from you and finished the bathing solution that day so his flesh is now returning to normal. Thank you and so pleased that we can all learn from one another, We get more help from our chats than the "so called" specialists.
Ozzie Toes 16-Oct-2010 03:53
Hi Sad about toes, Tommy and Tina

As I posted earlier to SAToes that I used a very strong saline solution (3 tablespoons of sea salt crystals to 1 cup of warm but boiled water). He had his removal done 3rd Sept this year (2010) and the solution I made up was too strong according to directions but healed it up and also dried out most of the skin on his toe which peeled off. We left it to dry without a bandaid (large and wide fabric variety) so the air could get to it while elevated as well and put a bandaid on before going to bed so the covers didn't irritate it. He had phenol procedure and therefore his toe is still a bit red until he elevates it for a while. He has very little pain in it now and on the odd "forgettful" moments goes to bed without the bandaid but puts one on to go to lawn bowls or the mall etc. for protection.. There is still a big scab that is quite firmly held into place where his nail used to be which we are wondering whether it too will eventually lift off and ...then what???? He sees the specialist again on the 3rd Nov and if we can make any sense from him!!!!! wonder if it is going as well as it can for this harsh remedy we had to sort out ourselves. His other toe is not good either but he is in NO HURRY to even mention it coming off, Thinking of you all and hope and pray you will be recovering much better soon.
sad about toes 16-Oct-2010 03:03
Tina so sorry hope you can heal and be pain free I still have some pain in redness in both toes even the one done in 09 if on it too long gets rred and swollen .
Tommy how are you doing hope you are healing well . my toe that had two procedures and mrs is doing a little better has regrowth wich i pray will be ok
Tommy 14-Oct-2010 01:35
TINA RN: Could you tell us a little more background on why you had permanent removal. Was it the whole nail or just the sides for ingrown toenail? Was it infected before surgery? And did you have a fungal disease? Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)may have happened due to damage to the nerve endings during the nail removal surgery. Work with your Doctor to see what treatment options are available. Most times toenail surgery gets complicated because of an underlying infection. Are you sure you don't have an infection? Please keep us posted. Also read through the posts on this page there is a ton of good info. Hope you feel better.
Tina RN 11-Oct-2010 03:37
The doc also said since I'm having this much pain after four weeks I may be developing CRPS. Anyone heard of this. Some type of regional pain syndrome that can be permanent. Now I'm really scared.
Tina RN 10-Oct-2010 20:22
I had permanent toenail removal with the phenol ablation four weeks ago. Still some drainage. Lots of pain after I have my feet up in recliner then get up to stand. So tight and throbbing I think the toes will burst. Anyone here still having pain after four weeks? The doc told me I'd be back in shoes and normal after three weeks. I can't even wear sox yet.
sad about toes 08-Oct-2010 02:46
Got too scared to go to new doc as I am afraid of more problems not infected now and want it to stay that way .The bad part is with these piece of regrowth floating on the top of scar tissure they cause major discomfort and can only where socks and saandles go back to the other doc next wed to get first to with spicaal drilled down only 8 weekis and has to be done again almost ripped off in sock today :(
bryguy 07-Oct-2010 18:19
Would be cool to talk with other guys who feel the same about their toenails.
bryguy 05-Oct-2010 14:29
Is there any way to email other people on the board?
Sad about toes 01-Oct-2010 14:57
Hi Ozzys toes

I think if your hubby has a scab now you should stop the soaking check with your doctor but that is what I always did . Glad he is feeling better and able to go to lawn bowls :) I will keep everyone posted thanks :)
Ozzie Toes 29-Sep-2010 02:02
Hi there Sad about Toes.
My husband is losing hunks of toenail scabs and surrounding flesh. I must have used too much salt in the saline I made up. He is not in so much pain now (nearly 3 weeks) and went to lawn bowls yesterday for the first time. He was climbing the walls with frustration and house-bound. Let us all know how you get on with your new doctor.....Lots of luck and hope things get better for you. Ozzie Toes.
Sad about toes 26-Sep-2010 22:19
Thanks Meredith that means a lot . So far its still a wait and see and toe is holding its own I am supouse to see a new doctor on friday .
I am praying for the best
Meredith 21-Sep-2010 06:01
SadAboutToes,

Any update from bits of your nail breaking off? Just letting you know your toes are still in my thoughts.
bryguy 20-Sep-2010 12:51
Hey Greg have you been on this board before? Would be cool to talk to you man.
bryguy 19-Sep-2010 18:43
Hey Greg... we should go to the beach together man. I feel the same way about my toes.. I used to love being barefoot.... still do but its not something I really do now because of my toenails. I have thought about trying the fake toenails but they make they for women and the ones that I have seen that look most like a toenail are the ones with a French Manicure.
Greg 16-Sep-2010 06:56
I had both of my big nails removed two years ago and still regret it because of how it looks cosmetically. Granted it probably needed to happen because of ingrown nails, but I wish I hadn't jumped the gun. As a guy, it is still difficult to do things like go to the beach or go on dates. I seriously can't believe the podiatry and cosmetic communities haven't come up with a solution for those of us with funny looking toes...a permanent fake nail. I'm so fed up. One of us is going to have to come up with something! Sheesh!
sad about toes 14-Sep-2010 02:55
Hi Ozzys toes
Saline is good I used that too infact when i landed in the hospital with the last infection they said that was the only thing to use to wash the toe I was able to find it in a spray bottle .I think its good you are bugging the doctors I know what you mean the first one i saw in july 09 was horrible with after care you could tell there was more money in procedure than after care .
Stay strong though and make them do their job . I have to go to a doctor tomorrow as a piece of nail that broke off 12 days ago is now causing bleeding under the skin and inflamation :( I am in a rock in a hard place and dont know what to expact I am praying for good news as I am supouse to go on holiday this weekend .

You and your hubby are on the right track though keep keeping your eyes on it make the doctor have check ups too .I took photos of my progress and it comes in handy with my on going problems .
you are both in my thoughts
Guest 13-Sep-2010 11:39
Hi Sad about Toes.that last comment was from ozzie toes (not guest) don't know what I did to change the concept. anyway. How are you going ? Check in later.
Guest 13-Sep-2010 04:05
Hi there sad about toes.... WELL...rang the GP who advised bathing his foot in a saline solution and then dry it off and NOT to use betadene and keep the bandaid off. More mixed messages but we try again of course. He also said not to dry it off with the hair dryer. oh well. So I am off to the chemist for saline solution or better still 1 tablespoon of sea salt to 1 cup of lukewarm water. Will ring the local GP tomorrow if no better. I get the feeling that everyone knows that I am bugging them. So what. Where are you in Nv??? Is that Nevada? We are on the Central Coast of NSW in Australia and I realise that the indifference of some doctors is worldwide. Keep us posted on your progress. Best wishes.
PS. I doubled up on my last comment sorry. and having re-read it saw that I typed food reconstruction - I guess you would realise I meant to type FOOT. Catch up with you soon.
sad about toes 13-Sep-2010 03:15
Hi again Ozzys toes how did they do the permant removal did they use phenol or laser ? Both cause draining and it takes time . I hear ya on the doctors and their not explaining but taking the money mine was a jerk said it was an easy procedure and once I had it done no more infections and that I would be totally healed in 6 weeks three weeks of draining 3 weeks of scab .when I saw them in 12 weeks still not healed they offerd no help . I worte to doctor Oz and told hom to do a show about this so people know the true risk the podatry doctors dont tell us . Do bug them and have them keep an eye on your hubbys foot they should see him at least once a week .
I had this done and was told it would fix everything and I am still going through major problems for 14 months now . Some people do just fine and heal but the average is 8 to 10 weeks then pass regrowth which can be up to a year . It makes me sick these doctors do the treatment and not after care .I used to hear the laser going off every time I went made me sick . I will keep you in good thoughts and bug those docotrs they need to give post op care to be sure he is ok , Pain should be less and less each day if there is more redness or red streaks seek help right away also severe pain can be a sign of infection . I hope i have helped and doctors out here in Nv not much better thanks to this procedure I now have MRSE . read my post and today my toe is once again red for me the outcome may be loss of toe :( so keep on the doctor for your husband bug them thats what they are paid for .

good luck and well wishes


keep us posted
Ozzie Toes 13-Sep-2010 01:32
Thanks Sad About Toes....Asked about the antibiotics before surgery and they (Drs.) said not necessary. I wonder why such confused messages from them????? Am I going bonkers or what?????? Today it is still discharging after 10 days and a bit red and swollen and have left a message for the nurse who atteded to phone me - naturally the Drs. don't speak to "riff raff" but still waiting.... they take the money but no after care at all eh!!! Yes, we are worried about infection but if I don't get response by lunch time I will be at our General Practicioner who seems to take all the brunt of the specialists. It is still painful when he lowers his leg to stand. The rush of blood to the toe seems to be very painful. Is this usual? How is your situation today and is your toe a bit more confortable? We were not told anything of the problems or issues that follow this nail removal procedure. We were just told it was a simple and common op. Sent home without any "follow up leaflet" or proper dressings. Fortunately I bought some large bandaid strips that can cover it. The Dr. who performed the op was not very pleasant and when we went to see about the procedure and I asked a question he said to me"If you would be listening to me you would know" What a cheek. Just as well it wasn't my toe - he wouldn't be too kind to me. There are some A.. H... Drs. out there. I had a food reconstruction and same leg knee replacement that wasn't successful after 5 ops on it. The pain Dr. told me the next thing if infection appeared was amputation. Lovely... I am still on oxy.. after 18 months and have trouble getting in and out of the car in narrow parking even with a disabled sticker it is hard to get a park. Can only bend it to 90 degrees. What a buggar. I am 69yrs old and with my wonderful husband at 74Yrs old old age is not looking too good.. Thanks for your comments.
Sad about toes 12-Sep-2010 16:35
Hi Ozzies toes
I would hope that your doctor put your husband on antiobotics when doing this procedure to avoid the high rsik of complication with having a knee replacemnet in the same leg .Some doctors say to soak other say dont but the main thing is keep on top of it have his doctor keep a close eye on him . I will keep you in good thoughts
Ozzie toes 12-Sep-2010 02:41
My husband had his toenail permanently removed a week ago and it is still very painful and bleeding a bit at the nail bed whick is still open enough to fit in a 50cent piece (we are in Australia). He is 74yrs old and has already got a total knee replacement in the same leg and worried about infection. We are drying it with a hair dryer and applying betadene under the large bandaid. We weren't told very much from the beginning and got a shock to read all your comments which have enlightened us and have been very helpful in better understanding of the downside of the job lot. How long does it take for it to be healed enough for a walk to the mall??? Depression is setting in for us both. So sorry to learn of all your very bad experiences and hope things improve for you all. I heard that condies crystals helps too. Any advice on that?????
Sad about toes 10-Sep-2010 02:10
Bry I just want to keep my toes
bry 08-Sep-2010 07:55
So none of you guys are embarrassed about your toes?
Sad about toes 07-Sep-2010 15:25
Hi Tommy no news just kind of a wait and see right now and lots of prayers .A piece of nail ripped of the other day in my sock and another piece is growing up in another spot through the skin and is soar but I am just trrying to deal with it .
thanks for thinking of me
Tommy 06-Sep-2010 00:32
Sad About Toes: Any news with your situation? Hope you are well
Guest 01-Sep-2010 21:04
Austin you have to get the bandage off cant leave it htere mine laways soaked of f if you cant get it off you will need to go back to the doctor
Sad about toes 29-Aug-2010 18:24
Thanks Meredith
Your prayers mean a lot .Still cant get help but am praying it will be ok or maybe by some miracle these pieces of nail wont grow out or cause infection .
Austin had this done 28-Aug-2010 16:08
But the original bandage is completely stuck. It's been two days, and the gauze the doctor wrapped around my toe is completely dug in. I've cut it down to just a little toenail size piece, but it's not moving... probably without excruciating pain and major bleeding. Is this OK to leave it there? My body will eventually reject it, right?
Meredith 28-Aug-2010 15:05
Thank goodness for Tommy. His advice does seem better than most doctors.

Hang in there SadAboutToes. There has to be a doctor/doctors out there somewhere who can help you. You'll find them. I refuse to believe otherwise. I will keep praying for you. Please keep us posted.
sad about toes 26-Aug-2010 21:58
Thanks again Tommy well no such luck they said they would have to see me first . I did call an ortho today to see if they can help have to send them my medical records first . Also sent photos of pieces of nail to my podiatry doctor to see if he think we can just leave them alone . will keep ya posted
sad about toes 26-Aug-2010 14:46
Hi Tommy
Thanks SO much for your advise you are more helpful then the darn doctors who just want me to wait and see what happens . I will give them a call . Sadly though I know I am not a canidate for a prosthetic thats the ugly thing about MRSE it will cause an infection that is so strong it attaches itself to a proshetic and then has to be removed :( But maybe there is something else they can do as I refuse to loose my toe .
Bless you for helping with advise :)
Tommy 26-Aug-2010 04:28
Sad About Toes: I think you have a few options. The first is to talk with those who have experience with some of the most challenging cases. I am assuming you are in the U.S. Give a call to the Foot and Ankle Institute at Temple university in Philadelphia, PA. These are academic medical centers that encounter very challenging cases such as yours. If this fails, I think you may seriously want to consider what they call a partial toe amputation. That is they remove the bone at the first joint which will include all the nail bed and matrix. This allows you to keep some part of the toe, as well as have enough stump for a prosthetic toe. Now this is a serious life changing event, however, by having some toe remaining it won't seriously alter your gait. Now, the last option is do nothing. However, there is no guarantee that the infection won't return and cause osteomylities and you may loose your whole toe. This will of course seriously alter the way you walk and affect your life style permanently. So please give a call to some academic medical centers specializing in podiatric medicine.
sad about toes 25-Aug-2010 15:44
Hi Tommy Yes it all started from a fungas infection that became an abcess in my toe they ket havig to drain that and pack it then they removed toenail that was the right big toe and the left one started so I went to a podiatry doctor and he said easy fix remove the tonails permantly and easy procedure all healed in 6 weeks .NEVER told me about risk I never would have done this .

So now ID doctor says dont do anything and see if it gets infected so I saw family doctor yesterday said the same thing they are all afraid I will loose the toe if any more is done to it but if I leave it like this I probably will anyway They say maybe the nail pieces wont grow out but we all know that wont happen plus i can feel one under the skin so I am know sitting on a time bomb with no one to help :(
Tommy 25-Aug-2010 04:09
Sad About Toes: I was trying to think back to what made you in the first place to have toenail removal. I think it was toe nail fungus on both toes right? Anyway, given the current situation, you may want to ask your foot, Infectious Disease, and family docs what your options are for the toe that is giving you repeated trouble? I don't think you could go on forever with this problem. I am sure you want to get your life back right? So I think you need to ask the professionals for the best medical options, and then think long-term. Please keep us posted and I hope you will be able to resolve this soon.
sad about toes 22-Aug-2010 23:54
Thanks Tommy I am sure scared and at my witts end right now .Sorry Jing and boy can I relate to how you feel my right toe that was done in July 09 has a piece of nail too wow I have had three docotrs and 3 procedures on 2 toes and none of them were able to get rid of nail and thats with laser and phenol :( Anyway for the right toe that piece like yours is sharp and will catch on things so that one gets drilled down ever 11 weeks .I am actually praying for this darn other toe to be the same but think there are just too many pieces once again and think some is under the skin .Boy do I regret this whole ordeal and I am still so mad a t the first doctor who said it was an easy procedure with really no complications just draining and a scab . Never new that these darn nails ar made up of cells that cant be seen and are hard to get rid of . Plus all the other problems jsut read my post sad about toes :(

I wonder how Evelyn is
LGivens 22-Aug-2010 20:39
My mom had her nail beds removed in both of her big toes, and she was asking me if I thought she could get a fake one put on and how she would go about getting it done. We leave for the beach in four weeks, just thought I would see if you had any insight?
Tommy 22-Aug-2010 02:21
Jini: I would get a second opinion. See another foot doc. If you are having pain and infection you should ask a new foot doc for her or his opinion. Most of the time permanent toenail removal has a small chance if re-growth. So a second phenol application may be needed. Keep us posted. Also read through these posts. There are tons of advice of those who have gone through this procedure.
Tommy 22-Aug-2010 02:13
SAD ABOUT TOES: So sorry to hear about your situation. I can understand how frustrating all this could be. Did the foot doc give you any options as what to do next? At this point I am not sure if there any options left. Let's see what the infectious disease doc says. Good Luck
Guest 22-Aug-2010 01:42
Hey I'm Jinj
I had both my big toenails removed at 16, i am now 18 and they will still not real properly, 3 of the 4 corners of of the nailbeds have a nail shard the size of a canine tooth half sticking out, half still attached. I can (unwillingly but sometimes nessaceryily) pull them off/out however then i am victim to a two week infection, swollen two and tada as soon as infection clears the buggers are growing back again. I am becoming rather annoyed with this but the podiatrist just told me to ignor it or file em flat, sorry if u said you were removing the whole nail you really should have, i dont care about looks much, feet are feet but have a lumpy haggered bit of nail hanging out or a sticky yellow mess on your two is not atractive, neither is going to the beath and the next day finding sand has enbedded itself under the flappy bit of excuse known as regrowth...

not only is this my rant, its my plea for advise, i am moving soon, so i go and pester my new doctor so its sorted or put up with catching and ripping the corner of my toe everytime i wear shoes/sock??/
any help is great :)
sad about toes 20-Aug-2010 03:44
hi again comment below is also mine (sad about toes)
saw foot doc side of toe that was not redone and got infection now has pieces of nail growing in holes in the skin grrr cant get over all of this and the only way to describe it is when you break a glass the pieces of glass are all diffrent sizes and shapes well thats is what is happening to me ,This permant toe nail removal is just not so . these pieces are now growing back 8 month after the procedure . I am very broken hearted at this point .If they stay on top of the skin and dont cause infection it wil be a blessing but with this many pieces in holes I doubt it .l have to call Id doc again as he said no more procedures or I will loose the toe . GOD it makes me mad how mislead I was about this procedure and all of the risk ! only two toes and three procedures do the math its not worth it and after a year and four months I am not better I am worse :(
Guest 17-Aug-2010 19:04
Hi Tommy
I am hoping like the other toe with the piece of nail it can just be trimmed down just cant tell because of a whole in toe if there is more growing down underneath again like the other side of the toe and I am praying it is not . I dont really care how toes look just want them healthy and to be able to keep them . not too mentiion this is my second Summer with out being able to go hiking :(
Wish me luck tomororw . I bought a file and clipper from beauty supply so maybe he can use that if he want to use his grinder again on this other toe then I will pay him to put on a new tip hopefully .

Kim the scabs takle a while to come off mine took 10 weeks total for the whole thing but mine had too many problems to know if that right good luck
Kim 17-Aug-2010 15:05
I had my toenail removed June 2, 2010. Nothing but one infection after another and it still has not healed. Any suggestions as to help my scabbed up area removed, should I be soaking it?
Tommy 17-Aug-2010 03:46
Sad About Toes: Looks like your toenail saga continues. Sorry to hear this. I think the best suggestion I have for you is to allow the pieces of nail to grow out and trim them like normal nails (if it does not hurt). As you already know, anything surgical will cause more trouble. At the end of the day, the question is: Am I ok with not having a cosmetically pleasing toe, as long as I am not in pain and can get my activities done? Good Luck and hope things work out positively.
sad about toes 16-Aug-2010 21:54
Hi guys the toe with the infection and escah ( scab) is still healing however today I saw a piece of nail now growing on the other side that was not burned . I pray to god its not also growing underneath again I really dont have the strength for this anymore . Plus the ID docotr said no more procedures or I would loose the toe . I go to foot doctor wed but i dont want the toe touched just going to get the other toe with piece of nail drilled down . So what do you do when pieces keep growing back ? ;(
sad about toes 14-Aug-2010 17:55
I keep checking back for Evelyn too hope she is ok
sad about toes 14-Aug-2010 02:05
Meredith thanks so very much for your prayers it means a lot as I am so scared of my toes .I will update after apointment on the 18th
Meredith 13-Aug-2010 09:48
@sadabouttoes. I hope everything goes well with your nail getting ground down. I will keep praying for you.

@Tommy I've been having the scabby skin that peels on just one toe, but the toe itself looks fine. I've been keeping an eye on it just to make sure it doesn't look like something bad might be cropping up.

@Jennifer I'm sorry your mother isn't more sympathetic to your pain. She probably didn't feel anything after her procedure due to nerve damage from her diabetes. As sadabouttoes said watch out for too much pain. I would also say watch out for too much discoloration around the toe(s) - looking purplish etc. I hope you have a good recovery.

Wish we could get an update on Evelyn. Hope she's ok.
sad about toes 09-Aug-2010 21:12
Thanks Tommy I see the foot doc next week and have to have the spiccal of nail on the other toe that was done july 09 grinded down as I cant have the procedure to remove it done just not safe with my great risk for infection so praying that goes well I am scared just to have that done with the fear of infection if my toes are even touched :(

About your scabbing skin in healing is it maybe a callouse or even dry skin . I have a callouse on my healed toe and the other one has major dry skin and cracking I use gold bond foot lotion really helps heal the skin from all the trauma .

Jennifer I think every one is diffrent on how they handle pain but if you get t oo much pain follow up with the doctor as it could be a sign of infection . hang in there everybody and best wishes for healthy healing for all
Jennifer 09-Aug-2010 04:04
I had this operation a week ago and it hurt like heck! My problem is with my mother. She keeps yelling at me saying that she went back to work the next day and to take care of myself, she won't help. For the first two days I couldn't even walk! She does have diabetes and lost circulation in both her feet-I was wondering if that's why she felt no pain, when I clearly was in agony and still recovering. Any words of wisdom?
TOMMY 09-Aug-2010 04:00
Sad About Toes: Great to hear that your are finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. Hopefully, this should be the end of your toe troubles.

I hope everyone else is healing well too... Please keep us posted.

I also had a question for those who are already healed (may be Meredith may know this) Do you have a scabbish type skin that keeps forming and peeling away every couple of weeks? I have this happening to me. Any thoughts?
Thanks
sad about toes 06-Aug-2010 18:49
Hi Meredith and Tommy & Evelyn
oops the post that said guest on the 30th is me sad about toes I am still healing but worried about the other toe that has a piece of nail on the side I see the foot doctor on the 18th .I am going to see about getting my own file down tool as I am too afraid of getting another infection .I wish I could get this piece of nail removed but cant as to great of risk of infection .The ID doctor said no more procedures . Still have the eschar on the other toe and the infection area is still pealing off Just praying the nail doesnt come back on that one again .This has been so hard and utnil I know its over and o more complications after over a year of them it is hard to rest easy

I hope Evelyn is doing better .
Meredith 06-Aug-2010 03:20
I hope Evelyn and Sad about Toes are ok. We haven't heard from them in a while.
bryguy 02-Aug-2010 06:02
What can a guy do for his toenails? The cosmetic toenails seem to be for women.
Guest 30-Jul-2010 22:47
Hi Merideth ,Evelyn ,Tommy and all .Well I saw the ID doctor and he thinks the toe is now healing and to keep giving it time but the scab from infection is starting to lift off some and the eschar looks good foot doctor thinks that should heal in 3 weeks time.My skin on my toe is pealing alot so I have started putting lotion in it as I dont want an infection getting under that pealing skin .The ID doctor did not want to put me on Antibodics but I got a bladder infection so Monday they gave me a shot and had recheck today and thank goodness its clearing up So thanks all for good thoughts now I just have to pray it heals all the way and that no nail ever comes back the id doctor said I can never have that procedure done again or I wil loose my toe so I pray this second time does the trick also hope when I get the other toe trimmed or filed down with the little piece of nail that is growing out from the side that it does not start another infection .I think I will spend my life being afraid of my feet now :( But hope and pray they get better . and please god no more nails . Even with the second time do over they say they can grow back in 6 months to a year .
Evelyn I am so sorry your infection is back dont go to the foot doctor go to infectiouse disease with MRSA and even Mrse that I have the risk are too seroiuse you may need to get on Ivs like I did .Please let me know how you do .Your in my thoughts and prayers .
Guest 30-Jul-2010 16:46
I had my big toenails removed when I was 11. I'm 32 now and I regret it. I am very self-conscious about how they look, and I have desperately searched for a solution to no avail. For awhile I was using fake nails with nail glue (essentially super glue), but I became allergic to the glue over time and had a severe reaction. It was horrible. And you can't get super glue off if you need to. I can't find any other possible solution. Painting the toe doesn't look very nice, and polish only stays on for a day. If you think you will be self-conscious, I would try all other options before permanent removal. I am angry that a doctor recommended this when I was only 11. I didn't even have severe nail problems, just some recurring in-grown toenails. My parents should have considered the long term consequences. I am terribly self-conscious about it. Someone else mentioned that people do point and laugh, and it's true. They proably don't really care nearly as much as I think they do, but when someone asks what's wrong my toes, even as a confident person I am bothered.

In addition, it was very, very painful, and the recovery process was long. I disagree with those people who said it was just like going to the dentist. Not even close. I couldn't possibly look at the pictures without feeling faint remembering the pain.

DOES ANYONE KNOW OF A WAY TO MAKE NAILLESS TOES LOOK MORE COSMETICALLY NORMAL????
Meredith 30-Jul-2010 04:54
@Kate if you're nearing 2 weeks after the procedure you should schedule an appt with a doctor to check on your progress and make sure no infection is coming on. Also, to update any after care instructions (soaking, ointment, gauze etc.,)

@bryguy I went barefoot while healing as much as I could. I also cut the toes part off of old socks and wore those.

@Evelyn When your doc thought your infection was gone did your toe still look "wet" at that time? Is there another doc you can see for this if the current keeps nipping at it? Did he ever tell you why he's touching it? I'm sorry this cropped up for you again :( I will pray for you.
EVELYN 29-Jul-2010 08:51
HERTE I GO AGAIN, TOE WAS LOOKING TERRIFIC FOR 2 DAYS, THEN BINGO IT STARTED TO GET RED AGAIN SCAB UP AND FESTER AGAIN, GETTING REAL TIRED OF THIS RITUAL, DONT WANT TO GO BACK CAUSE HE NIPS AT IT MAKES IT WORSE, BENN ON ENOUGH ANTIBOTICS TO KILL A HORSE, JUST GRIN AND BARE IT I GUESS, SOONER OR LATER IT HAS TO GET BETTER, SEEMS LIKE I AM DISCUSTED, I AM SORRY HELP, EVELYN
bryguy 28-Jul-2010 14:40
Do you guys go barefoot alot?
Tommy 27-Jul-2010 01:16
@Kate, each provider has different view about soaking. I never soaked, after showering I would wash the wound with saline solution, blot dry with sterile gauze and then put antibiotic gel and then bandage with a sterile gauze and medical tape. I did this without fail for 4 weeks. After the first two weeks, I stopped using gauze but used a bandaid but continued to use antibiotic gel for upto 8 weeks. I had two follow-up appointments. If you have any concern call your doctor. I am not sure how NHS allows for this...here in the U.S. it is different. Any sign of infection should be nipped in the but. It is common not to be able to ware shoes for at least 2 to 3 weeks after surgery. I wore a post-op shoe to work. good luck
Kate 26-Jul-2010 23:28
@ Meredith: The Podiatrist doesn't want to see me again, she said everything looked ok, which, yes, a week ago it did... Tonight's salt bath was the most painful, as, on my Mum's recommendation, I put in more salt... It's been throbbing for about 1 1/2 hrs now, extremely painful. I thought it was getting better but I can't wear shoes still, still wearing my sandals. Walking about and driving seems to make it bloody, eurgh! :-S
A bit worried now...
Meredith 25-Jul-2010 05:27
@Evelyn. Yay! That's great news!

@Sad About Toes. I'm glad your stomach is getting better. Keep up the probiotics. Let us know what both your docs say. I'm still praying for you and will continue until you're all better. You'll get there.

@Kate A little blood mix with your drainage should be normal as long as it doesn't seem like it's bleeding too much. Your toe will look really gross and juicy for at least a week and then it will just look gross for a few weeks. Keeping a photo diary is smart. That's what I did. Feeling sore initially is normal. Just keep watch on your toe and through your photo diary make sure it looks like it's making some progress. Your doc should want to see you in a couple of weeks to check your toe. Has that appt been scheduled?

What did your doc tell you as far as cleaning it? Mine said to wash it gently (no rubbing or scrubbing) with soap then soak in Epson/warm water solution and air dry for as long as I could before covering with ointment and bandage and/or gauze pad. I had some issues so my care instructions changed a couple of times. The whole cleaning, soaking, air drying, ointment, bandage routine twice a day gets old really fast, but it's necessary to take care of your toe as best you can. Just tell yourself you're in this for the long haul (8 to 10 weeks) and if you heal faster than that - even better! Good luck.

Meredith.
Kate 24-Jul-2010 22:35
Sorry about the multiple posting, my computer is playing up...
Kate 24-Jul-2010 22:33
Glad everyonee is feeling better. :-) I've been bathing my toe in salt water every day since Wednesday, and to be frank, it looks disgusting! :-S Its even been bleeding a bit and is really sore. Is this normal? I'm a bit worried it might be infected. I've been keeping a photo diary to compare and to me it looks worse than the day the big bandage came off... I'm a bit worried, does anyone have any advice on a better method for cleaning it? Thanks.
EVELYN 24-Jul-2010 09:46
HI EVERYONE HOPE YOU ARE ALL HEALING WELL,IT TOOK ME EXACTLYABOUT TWO AND A HALF MONTHS TO GET TO MY HEALING PART, BUT THANK GOD ITS BETTER YIPEE..SO BE PATIENT, TAKE YOUR MEDS DO WHAT THEY SAY, PRAY ALOT AND YOU WILL GET BETTER,SEEMED LIKE FOREVER, BUT IT WILL HAPPEN.KEEP UP GOOD WORK AND KEEP POSTING
Kisya 22-Jul-2010 19:45
Thanks for this! I just had both of my toenails removed today! I am still a bit numb, but I worry about the pain to come. I had this done 15 years ago, but they grew back ingrown and have hurt for years since!! I am hopeful this will be the end now. I was not brave enough to look. Thanks for the pics! They were teasing me at the podiatrist. I am nursing student, but couldn't watch. I have watched a lot of gross things, but on my own...I am a sap!!! Good job!!!
sad about toes 22-Jul-2010 14:46
Hi Evelyn such great news that your infection is gone and now your toe can heal .I am doing ok still trying to get my tummy back to normal but its getting better .My toe is doing ok thank goodness I se the ID doctor on Monday and am praying for good news . I still have that black spot with brown fluid where the infection was or is and hope that is ok .I need to e mail my foot doctor a photo today also . I wil keep everyone posted .Hoping this goes well for all of us
Kate 22-Jul-2010 10:50
4 days later, got the pressure bandage taken off yesterday, it all looks ok, a bit gunky but apparently that's normal. It's a bit more painful today though, and my whole toe is still swolen. I think this could just be down to the anesthtic... Have been told I can drive now, but I'm not sure. Any hints or tips please?
EVELYN 21-Jul-2010 23:17
I WENT TO THE DR. THANK GOD, I THINK AND SO DOES HE THAT THE INFECTION IS GONE, AND MY TOE IS ALMOST 100% BETTER, BOY I'LL TELL YOU IT WAS QUITE AN ORDEL I DON'T WANT TO GO THROUGH AGAIN.HE TOLD ME TO FINISH THE ANTIBOTICS AND I DIDN'T HAVE TO RETURN UNLESS IT GIVES ME TROUBLES, I AM PLANING NOT TO GET ANY MORE TROUBLES. GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE REST OF U, HOW ARE YOU TOMMY, AND SAD ABOUT TOES, AND MERDITH, AND KATE? I WILL KEEP ALL OF U IN MY PRAYERS, AND KEEP ON POSTING SO I CAN SEE YOUR PROGRESS OK
Kate 20-Jul-2010 10:43
Ooh! And does it really take 6 weeks to heal? Seems like such a small area but I guess it 'invasive' so, thinking about it, it makes sense... I have 2 keep my bandages on until Wednesday, then the Podiatrist will clean the area and change the dressing, then it's down to me. Just want to see what it looks like now, lol!
Tommy 20-Jul-2010 03:55
Sad about Toes, Meredith, Evelyn, and Kate, Glad everyone is healing well..especially Sad About Toes. That is indeed good news. I am still keeping mine covered with a bad aid during the day...until all the scab comes off.... Kate, one reason I had the entire nail done, was because I was scared that the nail will grow out like a talon. You will not get a good sense of what your toe may look like permanently until a few weeks passes by... you could check my flickr page enter the following after the .com photos/13540410@N02/4730846631/ If anyone has taken any post surgery pics I would love to see what your toe looks like post healing. Hope everyone will continue to heal fast...
Kate 19-Jul-2010 19:10
Ooh! And does it really take 6 weeks to heal? Seems like such a small area but I guess it 'invasive' so, thinking about it, it makes sense... I have 2 keep my bandages on until Wednesday, then the Podiatrist will clean the area and change the dressing, then it's down to me. Just want to see what it looks like now, lol!
Kate 19-Jul-2010 10:18
Just gotten back from the hospital after the surgery, was in and out within 30mins and it went really well. Feeling is slowly coming back, but I'm armed with painkillers. :-) Glad it's gone now. Getting increasingly more sore by the minute now, but I'll be happier in the long run.
sad about toes 19-Jul-2010 02:50
Hi Merideth ,Evelyn .Tommy
Still on brat diet but thank goodness (knock on wood) think tummy is doing better hoping to try some other food tomorrow . The infectiouse disease doc called today yes on a sat nice guy .he wants me to keep doing what I am doing as far as the guaze on my toe and cleaning with saline .he is glad to hear the toe is not getting worse and has hopes this will heal .he also thinks I may be ok on the tummy issue even if its c-dif he would rather I not get on any more antibodics and try too heal on my own .He is calling me in a few days . one thing though is i wonder if the black spot and blister on the toe will ever go away where the infection was or is .
Thanks Merideth I do take probiotics the one I think that is helping the most is align . I pray I can eat a little bit more of a normal diet tomorrow and my tummy will be ok .
i cant seem to get much info on mrse but they do say if you get mrse or mrsa or a staph infection you are prone to getting them for the rest of your life :( Guess I cant get the other nail thats growing back on the other toe done hope it doesnt give me any problems . The hospital said my bone is clear from infection so hopefully it stays that way and I pray this infection has been killed from the vancomycin and amoxiclon in the hospital .I hate being afraid of my toes .
I hope nobody else ever goes through what I have
Meredith 18-Jul-2010 23:18
Sorry for the double post.

@Kate

The doc should tell you to take the pressure dressing off 24 hours after the procedure so you can clean and dress the wound.

Mine told me to "soak" off the dressing in the shower, but my own logic told me the pressure of water coming from the shower would hurt my toes too much so I soaked my toes in a tub of water, but the dressing wouldn't come off completely so I had to cut the dressing off from the back of the toes using sterilized scissors.

I then followed my docs instructions to wash my feet with soap, soak my toes in an Epson Salt solution (about 10 mins) then air dry - later applied a thin layer of Neosporin and covered with a bandage twice a day. Although I wish I had been instructed to use gauze pads instead of bandages since I had so much drainage - would have saved me a lot of grief.

Those were my doctor's instructions, but yours might want you to do something different so it's best to take a little notepad and pen and ask the doctor directly before he/she starts the procedure, that way you get it straight from the horse's mouth. And if you're still unclear about instructions - call him later if you can. I became a real pest with mine because the doctor and the nurse would give me conflicting care instructions after each visit.

As far as showering without anything covering your toe. Again, my doc said I should have be able to do that from the beginning, but that didn't sound right to me (and I'm the one who had to deal with my pain) so I was extra cautious and wore a bandage (and later gauze) during the first 6 weeks in the shower because the pressure from the water just felt too freaky to me, but in the last 2 of the 6 weeks I would remove the bandages towards the end of my shower so some of the scabby bits could get blasted off.

Hope you have a great recovery!

Meredith.
Meredith 18-Jul-2010 23:13
@Tommy I'm kind of where you are regarding your toe. Mine are completely healed and I'm hoping I'm done for good. I've heard other people say regrowth of the nail usually happens around 5 or 6 months after the procedure so I'm keeping my eyes open for that among other things.

If I didn't feel I absolutely had to have my big toenails permanently removed - I wouldn't have. It's just too much to deal with.

@Sad About Toes. Did the docs ever determine if you had the start of a bone infection? I know you were getting conflicting information. Did docs tell you what +4 means in terms of treatment? Did the infectious doc ever call you back? Has your diarrhea improved? Sorry for all the questions I just want you to get well. You've gone through too much already. If Infectious Doc mentions antibiotics again ask his opinion about Linezolid (brand name Zyvox) or Ceftobiprole. Those might just be for MSRA though.

Also, can you ask docs if you can have probiotics to help with your stomach issues? I eat cream cheese from Weight Watchers brand that has probiotics in it - they sell it at grocery stores. I ate it spread on toast when I was on antibiotics from my toe nail procedure. First antibiotic I was on made me sick and tore up my stomach. I feel the probiotics helped.

I will keep checking this site for any updates and I will keep praying for you, Evelyn, and Tommy.

Meredith.
Kate 18-Jul-2010 13:22
I have my surgery to look forward to tomorrow... Living in the U. K there is no charge for the procedure, which is lucky! My problem has apparently been caused by trauma to the nail bed having had an ingrowing toenail removed about 9 years ago. I don't know if British NHS way of removing a nail is the same, I suspect a pressure dressing will be used. Does anybody know when I'll be able to take a shower without the dressing on and clean the wound? Also, any advice on dressing the wound myself would be geatly appreciated. :-)
Tommy 18-Jul-2010 01:37
The next day after my morning shower I removed the pressure bandage and washed with the wound wash and bandaged it after applying the gel that was provided with the package. Now, getting my foot into a shoe was the most painful. I tried a sneaker and it was causing pressure on the toe. So the next evening I bought a post-operation shoe. I wore this to work for about two weeks. I also had two follow-up appointments to check on the surgical wound.
After 52 days the wound has dried up, and a scab has formed. Most, of the scab is breaking away after my showers. There is still some remaining stubbornly on the left nail border. Also there is a small reddish-black spot on the left border. I don’t have any specific pain as such, but if I put any exerted pressure on the toe it does pain. I may go back to the podiatrist in another week or so just to make sure there is nothing going on. Hopefully, everything should be healed by then. Also my toe is looking more like what it will look permanently–that is, it taking a more bulbous look on the top if the toe. It does not look bad, but does look different. Unless it is closely examined it is hard to say that there is no toenail.
Final thoughts: It has been a long road to recovery, it is amazing how something small like a toenail could consume so much time and also dollars. Nail fungus is extremely hard to cure. Surgery seems a logical choice. Anyway, there is a chance that the nail may comeback sometime as well as infection from the surgery. I am hoping that I could close this chapter for good and not worry about this. I have not decided yet if I will do my other toe. I hope everyone is healing well...I will check this board from time to time offer my experience to anyone who is planning on surgery or going through the healing phase. Lastly, I am really worried about SAD ABOUT TOES...I pray that you will heal quickly and not have to loose that toe.
Tommy 18-Jul-2010 01:35
Part II
In May of this year I thought I will try to consult another podiatrist in the area. So I did some research online and picked a podiatrist. On the day of the appointment she examined both my feet, I also took the medications that were prescribed before so that she is aware of my previous treatment attempts. After thoroughly examining and hearing my story, she recommended that remove the offending ends of the nail. She said both toes could be done at the same time or one at a time. She also mentioned that the fungal nails would still cause problems down the road, and the other option would be permanently remove the whole toenail so that it would solve the ingrown problem and remove any refuge for the fungus. In the back of my mind I also knew that this would be the logical solution to this long drawn problem. We also discussed what it would look like cosmetically. She said that the toe mail look a little bulbous, and that a thickened skin would form where the nail once was. I decided that the permanent removal of the complete toenail was the best option, and consented, and surgery was performed the same day. After spraying a cold spray she numbed my right toenail, after about half hour she came back and removed my toenail and burned the nail matrix with phenol. After applying a pressure bandage I was on my way home. So there I was for the first time with my entire nail and root removed resulting in no toenail at all. The whole process was done in about one hour. Since I wore sandals for the appointment I did not get a post-operation shoe, she mentioned that I could ware a shoe with a wide toe box for work the next day. As for post operation care, I decided to use the Amerigel wound care package which I purchased before I left home. The numbing lasted for about 14 hrs. Anyway, I took some Advil soon after surgery.
Tommy 18-Jul-2010 01:34
I am posting this in three parts

It has been 1 month, 21 days or 52 days since my surgery to remove my right toenail permanently. I thought that this will be an great time to share my thoughts with everyone about what led to the surgery and healing process. This all started about late 2008 when I started to see white streaks or on my right and left big toenail. The streaking appeared like cracks on the toenails. The right toenail was looked worse that the right. Anyway, the appearance did not look that bad. Finally, in May 2009 when I went to my family doctor for my regular check-up I showed him my toes, at which time I was also having athlete's foot. He recommended a podiatrist and asked me to consult with him. That same month I made an appointment and he examined both my feet and took nail clippings to do a lab test. He also gave me a prescription fungicidal agent for my athlete's foot condition, and asked me come back in two weeks, when the lab results will be back. Well, when I returned in two weeks, the lab results confirmed that I had nail fungus in both my big toenails. He recommended that I go on a oral antifungal medication. Now, everyone knows how bad these are for your liver, and I was not intending to go through route. So he said for me to continue to use the fungicidal gel he prescribed earlier on my toenails as well. So I continued using this twice a day after soaking my foot. The athlete's foot condition completely healed in about a months time, anyway, the brittle appearance on my toes did not completely go away. Maybe due to the gel, my nails started to thicken and by about November of 2009 I started to have ingrown toe nails, which were causing me pain especially when I was jogging or running. Therefore, I made another appointment with my podiatrist. After examining he confirmed that it was ingrown toenails and gave me a nail softener (a high strength urea cream). I stopped using the fungicidal gel and continued to use the nail softener for a couple of months. While I was using the softener the nail would not cause any pain along the nail borders, but as soon as I stopped the symptoms would return. I stopped using the nail softener for good in late January. Until this time I may have spent about $450 on doctor visits and fungicidal gels etc.
EVELYN 17-Jul-2010 22:54
DEAR GUEST, BOY YOU ARE REALLY HAVING A ROUGH TIME OF IT, I FILL BAD EVEN EVER COMPLAINING WHEN I HEAR YOU, I REALLY WILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS, I SURE DO HOPE ALL OF YOUR FOOT GETS WELL, AND IT IS NOT SPREADING, THAT FOOT DR. IS PROBABLY AFRAID TO ANSWER YOUR CALLS, LIKE I SAID BEFORE, I DON'T THINK I WILL EVER GET ANOTHER TOE DONE, PLEASE KEEP US INFORMED ON YOUR STATUS, I REALLY WANT U TO BE WELL, GOD BLESS EVELYN
Guest 17-Jul-2010 15:32
Thanks Meredith Tommy & Evelyn . Yesterday I finally got my lab back on wound culture not from the doctor though he has not returned my calls it came back staph epidermis 1 again and the mrse went from a +1 to +4 I cant take any antibodics now has I am so sick from the 5 days of iv in hospital had to bring sample becuase of all of my diarrhea.I am dropping too much weight and am on the brat diet and still it going through me five days today .The infectiouse disease doctor spoke with me yesterday to keep an eye on the toe and he is worried about my stomache problems heis supouse to call me again today .I feel like I am living a nightmare and so scared the toe will get infected again now that I am off meds . The infectiouse disease doctor said these procedures should never be done :( I truely and sad and scared about my toes and pray I will get through all of this and be healthy again .
Glad you are getting over the infection Evelyn and Tommy glad you are healing .
This mrse I have is so confusing ot a lot of info on it more on mrsa but I know it can cause the flesh eating bacteria so it scares me to death
Meredith 16-Jul-2010 21:15
To Evelyn, Sad About Toes and Tommy:

I just wanted you all to know that I am praying for you. And even when I'm not praying, your toes are in my thoughts. I know sometimes it's easy to think nobody cares, but it isn't true. I wish a healthy recovery for all of you.

Meredith.
EVELYN 16-Jul-2010 20:45
HELLO EVERYONE,BOY I SURE DO PRAY ALL OF YOU GET WELL SOON, AFTER HEARING YOUR STORY ABOUT THE ABSESS, I FILL SILLY EVEN TALKING ABOUT MY TOE, BE BRAVE AND HOPEFUL, YOU WILL GET WELL,AND I ALSO PRAY IT HASN'T SPREAD TO YOUR BONES.I DON'T THINK I WILL GET ANYMORE OF MINE OFF,CAUSE THIS ONE HAS TAKEN SO LONG AND AFTER HEARING THE STORIES, I'LL LIVE WITH THE YELLO TOENAILS. I WENT BACK TO MY FOOT DR. I FINISHED THE ANTIBOTIC(VIBRAMYCIN) THE TOE IS FINALLY STARTING TO HEAL....YIPEE...THE TOE IS STILL RED AND A LITTLE SWOLLEN BUT THE SITE OF THE REMOVAL LOOKS GOOD, SO HE WANTS ME TO TAKE ONE MORE WEEK OF ANTIBOTICS, AND IF ITS HEALED AFTER THAT I DON'T HAVE TO GO BACK, IF IT ISN'T I CALL AN GO BACK, LETS JUST BELIEVE IT WILL BE HEALED ONCE AN FOR ALL. I WILL KEEP ALL OF YOU IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS, THAT YOU ALL GET BETTER, I'LL KEEP CHECKING THE SITE. THANKS EVELYN
Tommy 16-Jul-2010 05:56
Sad about toes: Once again it is horrible that you have to go through this. I am still surprised that they ordered a MRI only now. Anyway, let's hope your bone is ok. Don't let it spread to the bone. Hope you will come out of this ordeal ok. What has your foot doctor said about all this? As for my own surgery, my wound site has started to dry up. I am still having a scab forming.It is still somewhat sensitive and I have kept it covered with a band aid. I have not decided on my other toe. After reading your story,it has scared the hell out of me. Keep us posted....and quick healing..
Siobhan Swan 14-Jul-2010 17:57
hi there im supposed to be having my toenail permantely removed tomorrow, i just got a letter through saying i was seeing a doctor at the hospital in outpatients. Will that be my actual Op or a consultation? i thought i was just going straight in for the op but now wondering if i am just going in to talk to the doctor about it. i have been referred by my gp as ive had both off 6 times in total. getting nervous and just want it over with have suffered for so long with them now. anyone have any ideas as to whether ill be having the op tomorrow or just a consutation. It doesnt say on the letter :S
Siobhan Swan 14-Jul-2010 16:59
hi there im supposed to be having my toenail permantely removed tomorrow, i just got a letter through saying i was seeing a doctor at the hospital in outpatients. Will that be my actual Op or a consultation? i thought i was just going straight in for the op but now wondering if i am just going in to talk to the doctor about it. i have been referred by my gp as ive had both off 6 times in total. getting nervous and just want it over with have suffered for so long with them now. anyone have any ideas as to whether ill be having the op tomorrow or just a consutation. It doesnt say on the letter :S
Siobhan Swan 14-Jul-2010 16:55
hi there im supposed to be having my toenail permantely removed tomorrow, i just got a letter through saying i was seeing a doctor at the hospital in outpatients. Will that be my actual Op or a consultation? i thought i was just going straight in for the op but now wondering if i am just going in to talk to the doctor about it. i have been referred by my gp as ive had both off 6 times in total. getting nervous and just want it over with have suffered for so long with them now. anyone have any ideas as to whether ill be having the op tomorrow or just a consutation. It doesnt say on the letter :S
sad about toes 14-Jul-2010 16:30
Hi Evelyn & Tommy
I just got out of the hospital last night for my toe .On friday (9th) I saw my family doctor becuase the toe got much worse and had a big abcess on it .The plan was my doctor wanted to order and mri for next week and for me to go see the infectiouse diesease doctor but he also had to open up the abcess in my toe when he did he panicked at what came out and got on the phone with his infectiouse disease doc and the hospital he told me he could be the start of gas gangreen .took 4 1/2 hours for er to see me and they did a mri and x ray and put me on vancomycin iv and amoxxicilon iv meds .The doc in the er said I had the start of a bone infection and said I would be on iv meds for months .
then on sat night another doctor said I do not have a bone infection the infection is still in the skin . they kept me on iv until yesterday and sent me home .They do not have final culture results back yet from lab .I am so sick from all the meds the toe does ook better but still draining a little from where the abcess was .Waiting to hear back from my family doctor and my foot doctor is waiting to hear back from me .I just pray this heals now and with no further problems or meds as I cant take any right now from being so sick from the ivs I know have Gi problems and thrush :( ugg I am still sad about my toes .
Evelyn I hope you are doing better and the medicine is working for you . Tommy hope you are healing well also .
Kate 13-Jul-2010 20:46
Thanks Tommy, will let you know how I go on. :-)
Tommy 13-Jul-2010 04:37
Kate: "permanent" is the way to go...because there is always a chance the nail comes back and creates issues. Just be forewarned that your toe may look somewhat different without the nail. But after a few weeks you will be used to it and it does not look bad at all....It takes a good 6 weeks to heal completely. Sometimes a tad longer. You should be able to go to work the next day...but don't expect to ware closed toed shoes for at least two weeks, a post-op shoe or open toe sandal will be fine. it is good that you are doing this in warmer months so you could ware open toe shoes or sandals. After the surgery they will put a large pressure bandage, after your shower the next morning you could take it off and then start dressing your wound as instructed. There will be some drainage form the wound for at least 2 weeks or longer. You should avoid any physical activity like running/joging for about two weeks. At three weeks you could ware a sneaker and workout; but don't put any pressure on the toe. Let it heal. Always keep it covered....if you see any sign of infection, that is warm toe, swollen after a few days of surgery, etc call your doctor immediately and let him or her know. Always use an antibiotic cream or gel. Good luck..you will be fine. Keep us posted.
Kate 12-Jul-2010 21:48
Well, its offical, I went to the podiatry clinic today, and its definately coming off... next week! I've opted for the permanent procedure... woop! :-S
I was wondering if anyone had any advice on what painkillers to use (I live in the U.K. so might be a bit different), how long will it be sore for, and how long before I will be able to walk about properly, and get back to work?
Thanks for your help
Kate
Kate 12-Jul-2010 19:41
Well, its offical, I went to the podiatry clinic today, and its definately coming off... next week! I've opted for the permanent procedure... woop! :-S
I was wondering if anyone had any advice on what painkillers to use (I live in the U.K. so might be a bit different), how long will it be sore for, and how long before I will be able to walk about properly, and get back to work?
Thanks for your help
Kate
Tommy 11-Jul-2010 05:42
Sad about toes: I admit this is really frustrating.Is there any other way to find a good wound infection specialist. I think it may be prudent to start getting a little more aggressive with the infection. When your foot doctor says "he does not think it is in the bone yet" how does he know? Can't he recommend a bone scan just to be on the safe side. PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE make sure that the infection is not spreading.
Also to Evelyn, this site was started by Dr. Lisa Bliss who is an ultra marathon (100 miles or more) runner, who was getting recurrent ingrown toenails because of her running, and eventually had surgery to permanently remove them. Yes, I agree with you, this site has become and invaluable resource to those of us who has gone through this surgery. I came across this when I was looking for information on nail fungus and ingrown toenails. Quick healing to all!!!
EVELYN 09-Jul-2010 02:50
I AM SO SORRY THAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH ALL OF THIS, WE GO GET THE TOES DONE IN THE FIRST PLACE TO CORRECT A PROBLEM, THEN WE GET LOADS OF PROBLEMS TO TOP IT ALL OFF, YOU WONDER IF IT WAS ALL WORTH IT. I UNDERSTAND YOUR FEAR, I AM FEARFUL ALSO, WHEN THEY SAY THAT DREADED WORD MURSA, YOU GET SICK TO THE STOMACH, AND YOU WORRIE ALL THE TIME, I WAS FEARFUL THAT "OH MY AM I GOING TO LOOSE MY TOE, OR FOOT" BUT I WILL NOT GO THERE, WE HAVE TO HAVE FAITH THAT ALL OF THIS WILL GET WELL, WE WILL GET BETTER AND NOT LET THE FEAR TAKE OVER, SO BE BRAVE FOR NOW AND KNOW WE ALL ARE IN THIS TOGETHER, AND WE WILL WIN IN THE LONG RUN, PLEASE KEEP ME POSTED, AND I AM SO THANKFUL TO TOMMY OR WHO EVER STARTED THIS SITE, SO WE COULD SHARE IN THIS ALL TOGETHER.KEEP THE FAITH,I GO BACK THIS COMING WED. HOPE FOR GOOD NEWS, HOPE THE REST OF YOUNS GET GOOD NEWS SOON.
sad about toes 09-Jul-2010 02:42
Hi Evelyn and Tommy .Was bad news again today I have an infection cellulitis this is on the other side of the toe not the side where the procedure is it started on Monday and I had taken all of the antibodics I had fineshed them on sunday by last night I knew I was in trouble really looked bad .Darn mrse is known for this it gets knocked down while on medicine then can come back when you stop :( I am back on the tetracycline 4 x a day again for 10 days but if toe gets worse or doesnt show signs of improvement in 48 hours I may have to go on IVS . Foot doctor said he doesnt think its in the bone yet but if I keep getting the infection back he said it could end up there :( I just cant get over all of this and I feel like it wont end .
Evelyn you are so right about the cutting and poaking too I had that done again today to try to drain the toe .I like the foot doctor I go to now though he is much more caring then the one who did these toes the first time and did them wrong . I just wish I could pray but lately I just feel numb from going through all of this for so long .Having to have the toes done over seemed hard enough but mrse has made it even more complicated .
Tommy 08-Jul-2010 01:04
Evelyn and Sad About Toes: Sorry to hear about your infections. As I stated before, just make sure that the infection has not spread to the bone. Keep us posted. Good luck and speedy healing!
EVELYN 08-Jul-2010 00:51
HI SAD, I SURE DO HOPE YOUR VISIT GOES WELL AT THE DR. YOU KNOW I HATE WHEN ALL THE HEALING YOU WENT THROUGH AND WHAT DO THEY DO, BUT TO MESS WITH IT AGAIN BY GETTING THEIR SCAPLE AND CUTTING AROUND IT, THEN THERE YOU GO AGAIN WITH THE MENDING, DSEEMS LIKE A NEVER ENDING PROCESS, NEXCT TIME I GO IF MY TOE LOOKS DECENT I AM GOING TO SAY, DO NOT MESS WITH MY TOE, IT IS HEALING UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!LET ME KNOW ABOUT THE DR.S VISIT
sad about toes 07-Jul-2010 15:33
Thanks Evelyn
I know its hard toes are such a small part of our body who would think they would be this complicated this has been a year and two months of my life .the right toe was on may 09 and had 4 surgerys staph infection then the laser and chemical burn didnt heal until oct and has nail growing back on it now .Then this left toe was done in Dec and came back with pieces of nail both on top and under the skin causing the infection then was told I have MRSE they did the laser and chemical again last week while on antibodics .Doctor said two hurdles to get over one being the infection and the other still the chance of regrowth again and we wont know that for 3 to 6 months . I have a herniated disc that is easier to deal with then these toes .
I hope your second antibodic works well and that you heal fast . I called the foot doctor today and I go tomorrow .
EVELYN 07-Jul-2010 15:26
HI SAD ABOUT TOES, WELL I AM GLAD YOUR TOE IS COMING ALONG, WE WILL GET BETTER, NOT SAYING I AM NOT WORRIED ABOUT THE INFECTION CAUSE I AM, I DONT GO BACK TILL THE 14TH HE WANTS ALL THE ANTIBOTICS GONE BY THEN, IT HURTS BAD SOMETIMES LIKE ICE PICKS IN IT, AND AT OTHER TIMES IT DOESNT,SO I'LL FOLLOW HIS PLANS AND PRAY IT GET WELL SOON, AND I PRAY YOURS GETS WELL TOO, MAYBE HE TOOK YOU OFF THE ANTIBOTICS TO SEE IF YOUR OWN BODY WILL HEAL IT THE REST OF THE WAY, LET ME KNOW, KEEP IN TOUCH.
Evelyn 07-Jul-2010 15:20
please don't hate your feet, so many of us have had the same problem, but we must march on and let these toes know who is in charge. i would not wait, i would go to the foot dr. have it checked and get on antibotics, i don't think they understand how painful it is,we should maybe drop a brick on their toes and see ok this is what i fill ha ha. hope you get well soon, i am still fighting my infection, on 2nd antibotic, but i will get this ol toe better if its the last thing i do..good luck to you hate your foot.
sad about toes 07-Jul-2010 02:15
well what I thought was doing good now hurts my toe has started burning and has gotten very red on one side of the toe saw family doctor and he didnt think it was infected yet told me if it becomes purple and swells to come back but I still wonder if the mrse is back as it didnt start hurting until today and yesterday is 1 week post op and two days off meds :( I HATE MY FEET
sad about toes 06-Jul-2010 14:40
Hi Evelyn the visit went well so far I am doing ok just wish I knew if this would heal faster being the second time for this toe but looks to be the same slow process as before .Its draining and he wants me to keep a very close eye on it for the next few weeks but for now no more antibodics .It is still soar mostly when I am on it too much .
I hope the antibodics are working for you when do you go back to your doctor ? If you are having lots of pain you should see him sooner to make sure the infection is not getting worse . good luck and good healing :)
evelyn 04-Jul-2010 22:22
i sure hope your visit is a good one, did your toe still hurt while taking the antibotics?? i get stabbing pains all the time. let me know what your doc does next ok good luck to u
sad about toes 04-Jul-2010 15:53
Good luck Evelyn will be thinking about you .I see my foot doc tomorrow and today I finesh antibodics I am hoping for a good outcome and sure hope the meds killed the mrse
EVELYN 04-Jul-2010 03:49
THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION, I WON'T SOAK IT AGAIN, NOT EVEN THE FOOT DR. TOLD ME ABOUT SOAKING. I AM TAKING THE ANTIBOTICS FAITHFULLY, I'LL LET U KNOW WHEN I GO NEXT WEEK WHAT THE NEW TOE NEWS IS, HOPEFULLY GOOD NEWS.
sad about toes 03-Jul-2010 02:07
evelyn with the Mrse you do not want to do the soaking my doctor said it can draw the infection in deeper make sure you take all the medicine as its tuff to beat . Hang in there and feel better
EVELYN 02-Jul-2010 12:40
FOR THE PERSON WHO POSTED AFTER ME LAST EVENING, I DONT KNOW WHICH TYPE, HE JUST SAID MURSA, I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TYPE, ALL I KNOW IS I WANT IT TO GET BETTER, AND NOT SPREAD TO BONES OR TOES, AND TO THE NEXT PERSON, THE PAIN DOESNT LEAVE UNTIL I THINK IT ALL GOES AWAY, ITS LIKE HAVING A TOOTH ACHE, AND YOU GET SHARP PAINS ONCE IN A WHILE, I REALLY FILL BAD THAT YOUNS HAVE INFECTIONS, MAYBE THAT IS COMON AND WERE NOT UNUSUAL, I KNOW3 IT SCARES THE ----RIGHT OUT OF U BUT KEEP FIGHTING THE TOE BATTLE WE WILL MARCH ON...THANKS EVELYN ACHEY BREAK TOES.
manky toes 02-Jul-2010 09:18
hey guys - finally somewhere I can have a moan about my toes. I had both big toe nails removed with the phenol and now have an infection in both. Absolutely kills. Have seen gp and got antibiotics but so far not too good going back today. How long does this pain go on for?
sad about toes 02-Jul-2010 03:34
Evelyn I am so sorry you have mrsa is it the mrse or mrsa I understand your fear as I too have mrse .I am on tetracycline will be done with that on sunday .Today has made me nerouse as an area of the wound from the matricectomy is white The doctor said its from the wound being wet but it still scares me to look at it .I see the podiatry doctor on monday .
EVELYN 02-Jul-2010 00:04
HI TOM, GETTING BACK TO YOU, THIS IS EVELYN, WELL I WENT BACK TO GET THE TONAIL RECHECKED, THE NIGHT BEFORE I SAOKED MY FOOT AND I POURED TABLE SALT ON MY NAIL WHILE IT WAS UNDER WATER AND LET IT SET A WHILE, I FIGURED IF THAT IS WHAT THEY DID IN ROMAN TIMES I WOULD TRY IT. WELL WHEN I WENT TO THE DR.S THE NEXT DAY ALL THE REDNESS WAS GONE. IT FELT GREAT TILL HE STARTED DEBRIEFING IT AGAIN, AND TAKING ALL THE DEAD SKIN OFF NOW IT HURTS ALL OVER AGAIN.........HE TOLD ME WHAT KIND OF INFECTION, IT IS MURSA, WHEN HE SAID THAT I REALLY GOT SCARED, BUT I AM NOT GOING TO PANIC, I AM GOING TO TAKE THIS NEW ANTIBOTIC HE GAVE ME VIBRAMYCIN AND SOAK AS I HAVE BEEN AND PRAY IT GOES AWAY, ILL LET YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENS AS THE WEEK PROGRESSES. THANKS EVELYN
Sad about toes 01-Jul-2010 03:25
Thanks Tommy you have been a great help too :) I will keep you posted hope your healing is still going great :)
Tommy 01-Jul-2010 01:29
Sad about toes: It is great to hear that things are turning out to be ok. Just follow whatever instructions you were given. Hope you will heal fast and be able to get back to doing the things you enjoy.
sad about toes 30-Jun-2010 15:51
HI Tommy wanted to update all I had procedure redone on toe monday the podiatry doctor and family doctor felt the antibodics will do the job of keeping the infection under controle .They did not feel the infection was in the bone as the toe was not looking worse actually looked better . They did the cutting of the pieces of nail spiccal and the used the laser and phenol again .wrapped it with iodine gauze . I have to see my family doctoe here in town every day this week then back to podiaty doctor on monday .
So far (knock on wood) it looks ok It has not started to drain yet and I started soaking today in betodine and then wrap the toe with bacitracine and guaze . I see my family doctor again today . I am sure hoping this wil all be ok and that the mrse is gone and I can get past all of the fear .Dealing with these toes for over a year is just too much .
hope everyone else is doing well
Tommy 30-Jun-2010 02:34
Kate: The toenail removal surgery itself is a very simple procedure. They will numb your toe before the procedure and you will not feel anything. Sometimes you may feel some pressure when the doctor separates it from the nail bed and then removes it from the matrix. You should be out of the office in about one hour. When they numb the toe they use a cold spray and then injects the chemical to numb the nerve. You may feel some stinging. After the procedure you should not feel any pain for about 4 to 6 hrs. Sometime you will not have any sensation in the toe until 10 hrs. It all depends how your body metabolizes the chemical. You should take some extra strength Advil or any thing that you normally take for pain. You could also ask the podiatrist for a prescription strength pain reliever. After this the healing process begins. Are you doing a permanent removal? That is no more toenail (they will burn the nail matrix with phenol or laser). A thick skin will grow where your nail used to be. Don't worry you will be fine. The healing takes somewhere between 4-8 weeks.
gueat 29-Jun-2010 23:07
i am having all of my nails remove in the morning i am scared now after reading uou all comments.
Guest 29-Jun-2010 12:58
I am currently sufering with a 'deformed' big toe nail. Its not infected, but, following an in growing toenail proceedure a few years ago, it has now grown back more like a tallon, growing sideways, and is a nasty colour. I'm going to have an assessment at the Podiatorist at the hospital on Monday, the doctor said it needs to come off otherwise it will cause me no end of problems, and it is quite painful. I'm quite scared about it, in growing toe nail proceedures look very different to the whole lot coming off. :-S If anyone could offer me any advice and/or words of comfort, i'd be very greatful, lol! Thanks, Kate.
EVELYN 28-Jun-2010 21:14
THANKS TOMMY, I WILL ASK WHAT TYPE OF BACTERIA, HE PUT ME ON BACTRUM BUT I GOT HIVES ALL OVER SO HE SAID TO STOP IT AND I SEE HIM IN TWO DAYS, I'LL LET YOU KNOW WHAT THE OUTCOME, AND YES, I USED THE CREAM THEY GAVE ME THEN SWITCHED TO NEOSPORIN SO I WILL SEE IF THAT HELPS, ANYONE WHO HAS HAD THIS OUTCOME KNOWS ITS NOT A WALK IN THE ROSES. I'LL GET BETTER, HOPE ALL ELSE DOES TOO. EVELYN THANKS
Tommy 28-Jun-2010 05:22
Evelyn: I read your previous posting below. You mention that you soaked your foot in salt water and wrapped-up. Did you use any antibiotic cream or gel when you were bandaging your toe? Also you mentioned that your doctor took a sample of the bacteria. Did he/she culture it and get the results back? Did he/she tell you what type of bacteria is it? If you have been following the discussion below with "Sad About Toes" your may have seen about the Staph infection. Make sure that doctor tells you what the bacteria culture result is and that he is targeting it with the correct antibiotic. If you are allergic call the office and make sure he/she knows about it. Staph infections can take a very long time to heal and could cause serious complications. As for the question about healing, it could take at least 4-6 weeks to heal completely WITHOUT any infection. You may still feel some sensitivity for almost 2 months from the date of surgery-until a thick skin is formed where your toenail used to be. Keep us posted and speedy healing.
EVELYN 28-Jun-2010 03:39
WELL MY TOE STILL HASN'T HEALED YET, AND IT IS INFECTED FOR THE SECOND TIME, DR. PUT ME ON BACTRUM, BUT YIKES I BROKE OUT IN HIVES SO CAN'T TAKE THE ANTIBOTIC FOR IT. SURE PRAY IT HEALS UP FAST.HAD IT TAKEN OFF 18 DAYS AGO.(BIG TOENAIL ON LEFT FOOT. HAS ANYONE ELSES TAKEN THIS LONG TO HEAL UP??????
Tommy 27-Jun-2010 23:29
see my posting on June 4th on "Toenail Removal Surgery and Shoes"
Guest 27-Jun-2010 19:08
how are you guys doing with your feet? do y ou all go barefoot? for me its not something i do very easily.
Tommy 26-Jun-2010 05:55
To Sad About Toes: Sorry to hear the bad news. The first thing the Dr. needs to do,and you need to insist, is the bone scan (MRI) to make sure that the Staph has not advanced to the bone and caused osteomyelitis. Once the bone is affected things start to go down hill. Now, MRIs are expensive and most insurance plans are hesitant to cover this. Insist to the Podiatrist you want to make sure that the bone is disease free. If the bone is not infected you are in luck, and hopefully the antibiotics should work and you will be fine. If we assume that the bone is infected they could do a surgical debridement (scrape the diseased part of bone) and save the bone and toe and not allow the Staph to spread. So first goal here is to make sure the Staph is arrested without allowing it to spread to the bone. I think your family doctor is hitting the nail right on the head. If you think your podiatrist has exhausted all options, I would ask your family Doctor for good recommendation to a orthopedic surgeon specializing in lower limb/foot conditions. They are generally more knowledgeable about bone scans etc. I am praying that you get through this ok. Keep us posted.
sad about toes 26-Jun-2010 02:31
Thanks Meredith and Tommy doing my best to stay postive on the antibodics now 4 times a day and have a call in to the foot doctor .I sure am praying this goes well
Meredith 25-Jun-2010 18:06
@sad about toes . Please keep us updated on your progress. I'm glad Tommy had so much good advice for you and others who think of having this procedure done.

I hope you come through this with your toes completely healthy. You will be in my thoughts. Don't give up.
sad about toes 25-Jun-2010 04:08
Hi TOMMY yes I have been taking photos even when I had the first toe done in July .Today I had more bad news the labs came back from culture taken on friday from my toe and I now have staph eperdimus mrse .My family doctor is putting me on tetracycline he said I still should be able to have the remaining nail pieces lasered safely . I am calling the podiatry office tomorrow . This is all so scary Still dont understand how a fungas infection started all of this for me . They say mrse is not as bad as mrsa but i am just not sure . Thanks again and hope you heal well and I agree dont do other toes unless you have no other choice
Tommy 24-Jun-2010 21:51
All, wanted give everyone an update on my toenail removal surgery. It has been 4 weeks since the permanent removal of my right toenail due to fungus that eventually caused the nail to thicken and become ingrown causing pain. The healing has been progressing well. I am hoping that nail will not come back and cause problems. If you are thinking about surgery or is going through the healing phase like me and have questions e-mail me at daytommy2002@yahoo.com. I have also updated my flickr page. You could enter the following after the .com photos/13540410@N02/4730846631/ Speedy healing to all
Tommy 24-Jun-2010 05:00
To Sad about toes: Glad you are exploring all avenues. After you brought-up this issue it has made me anxious as well; since I am going through the healing phase myself. The more I read about this, the more negative stories I see. I was planing on doing my other toe(since it has been giving problems from time-to-time) but now I may put surgery on the other toe on hold-although it is still giving me pain. Also I guess there is no guarantee that the nail won't come back. When you go back to the podiatrist make sure he or she explains all the treatments available to you. I am not sure if you are close to an urban center that has more specialized facilities. I would also take pictures of the healing process, so that I have documentation incase you want to pursue a malpractice suite. Lastly, I hope you are having alot of support from family and friends to get you through this. Keep us posted of your progress.
sad about toes 22-Jun-2010 14:53
HI thanks Tommy yes the first toe had the staph this one they say thei nfection is from the cells being left behind .You are so right though that they should make sure there is not a bone infection . They want to do the procedure (laser ) again on monday and becuase that doctor is so far away they want my family doctor to have an emergnecy plan like infusion center scine I do not do well with antibodics . The risk is there is a small infection right now but it wil lkeep getting bigger as the nail cells stay in there under the skin ,I am still calling around though and trying to cover all bases .I will ask the foor doctor about checking the bone .thanks
Tommy 22-Jun-2010 04:22
To Sad about toes: I have heard that Staphylococcus Aureus infections tend to be a bit tricky on the healing side, and the infection can penetrate to the surface of the bone. Ask the Dr. if you would need an MRI to check for an abscess or other problems beneath the skin surface. I think the podiatrist made a big mistake by opening up the skin (laser and phenol burn) to the Staph infection. From what I have read they should be aggressively attacking the Staph infection with oral antibiotics (tropical application would not do). As I said ask for a MRI to see what is beneath the skin. After you raised this issue it piked my interest (since I also had a fungal infection on my toenail) and I did some medical lit searches; and it seems Staph and Toes don’t go well together. As long as the bone is disease free you should come out of this nightmare ok. Exhaust all options-if that means going to 4 different Drs. Keep us posted. Good Luck!
Guest 21-Jun-2010 03:56
Thanks Tommy . I am not diabetic or unhelthy this started though last year as a fungas infection that became a staph infection . the first doctor did the laser and phenol in july he said it would be easy and I would heal in 6 weeks He had to cut the scab off in Sept . then a little piece of nail was left on and he yanked it out saying it was probably tough skin . came back and its nail . HIs Dad the other doctor did my other grand toe in Dec and he really missed pieces of nail . The problem is not only is there a piece growing on top of the toe but under the skin he missed cells and the body thinks they should not be there and it is causing an infection . They need to be removed and the new podiatry doctor wants to laser them but infection has to be gone . My family doctor said you cant get rid of the infection becuase they are cells that cant be seen . He said these procedures should never be done for this reason . I am calling both docotrs again tomorrow and will also look in to your sugestions . The sad thing is its so hard now days to find a docotr willing to fix another doctors mistake .
Tommy 21-Jun-2010 03:06
@sad about toes, sorry to hear about your situation. There are much more complicated surgeries performed with great results. In this day and time with so many advances in medicine, you should NEVER have to loose a toe for such a simple procedure. BTW do you have diabetes Type II? Sometimes this could cause complications. Anyway, I would also consult a general surgeon, there is hyperberic oxygen therapy, and other treatments that they could try. Please consult another podiatrist or a wound infection specialist. Keep us posted. Hope you have a positive outcome.
Sad about toes 20-Jun-2010 17:40
OK now I really wish I never had this done tink twice people before you do I had one toe done in july 09 wouldnty heal when it finally did there was a piece of nail left on then the other toe done in dec difrrent doctor that now has pieces of nail growing back but also cells under the skin that are causing an infection they told me on friday I will more then likely loose my toe !!!! my family doctor said these procedures should never be done as they come with too big of a risk but podiatry will never admit that
Sad about toes 20-Jun-2010 17:37
OK now I really wish I never had this done tink twice people before you do I had one toe done in july 09 wouldnty heal when it finally did there was a piece of nail left on then the other toe done in dec difrrent doctor that now has pieces of nail growing back but also cless under the skin that are causing an infection they told me on friday I will more then likely loose my toe !!!!
Guest 19-Jun-2010 14:57
@Tommy - I did go to my post-op appt. Matter of fact, I have been to several and the Dr. keeps telling me keep ointment on my toes and covered with bandaids. I'm thinking it is time to let them dry out or they will just never heal.
Tommy 19-Jun-2010 06:29
@Tracy, each one heals differently. Anyway, you should have gone for a post-op evaluation during the second week. By now the would should be dry. If I were you I would go to another podiatrist just to make sure there is nothing serious going on. Good luck
Tracy 18-Jun-2010 03:19
I had both my big toenails removed 4 months ago, back in February, because for 2 years I had been battling ingrown toenails and infections, but now that I the surgery it seems like my toes are taking a very long time to heal. I don't think the Dr. protected the skin around the nail very well because that skin just keeps breaking open and peeling from the chemical burn. My toes itch me like crazy and even soaking them doesn't seem to help. I still clean them with the antiseptic wash every day, I use a prescribed ointment on them and dress them with bandaids but they still keep breaking open. I was really hoping they would be healed by summer but it doesn't look like that is going to happen. Are there any suggestions out there? Sometimes I wonder if I should have gone for a second opinion on the nail removal.
sad about toes 17-Jun-2010 18:51
well I sure wish I never had this done both grand toes have nail coming back one was done in July 09 and has a piece of nail on the side wich then new doctor has been drilling down the other toe done in Dec has pieces of nail on pat of the top of the toe and under the skin . I now have an infection and had to be opened up yesterday so it can drain .Have to soak it 2 x a day and put antibodic topical on it and had to have a shot then if the infection clears I get to be burned again July 7th .This has been hell !! and has taken a year away from my life and still more to come each toe took over 10 weeks last time
Tommy 11-Jun-2010 00:59
see my postings from June 2, and 4th.

Since it has been two weeks since my permanent toenail removal surgery I wanted to provide everyone with an update. The healing has been progressing well. I also visited my podiatrist who took a look at the wound and said that it is healing ok. I have also been able to wear a shoe on that foot without much pain. It is still sensitive so I have kept it covered with a band-aid. I continue to wash the wound daily with a wound wash I purchased at the podiatrist’s office. Check my Flickr page. You could access by searching for daytommy2002 under people in Flickr. Also if you have any questions send me an e-mail at daytommy2002@yahoo.com. Happy healing to all...
Tommy 05-Jun-2010 22:18
I am not allowed to post hyperlinks. So please see the Flicker site under my username daytommy2002
EVELYN 04-Jun-2010 08:59
WELL I GOT MY LEFT BIG TOENAIL AND MIDDLE TOENAIL REMOVED,THE SHOTS WERE THE WORSE.BUT ONE HOUR LATER I WAS IN PAIN.I AM USED TO PAIN CAUSE OF DETERIATION OF BONES BUT THIS WAS BAD.IF I WOULD BUMP IT I WOULD HIT THE CELIENG. WELL YESTERDAY WAS MY-RECHECK I HAD SOAKED IT IN SALT WATER AND WRAPPED IT CONSTANTLY, BUT WHEN HE TOOK OFF THE BANDAGES MY TOES WERE BEET RED AND OZZING, HOW DISCUSTING AND WORRIESOM. THERE WAS AN INFECTION GOING ON, NO WONDER I WAS GETTING SUCH STABBING PAINS. SO HE CLEANED IT OUT (NO PICNIC) TOOK SAMPLE OF THE BACTERIA, CREAMED IT UP RE-RAPPED IT AND SAID TAKE THE ANTIBOTICS AND SEE ME IN A WEEK, PLEASE PRAY IT GETS BETTER, FOR THOSE WHO SAY THEY HAVE HAD NO PAIN WELL GOD BLESS THEM, BUT IF YOU ARE GOING TO GET IT DONE EXPECT DISCOMFORT AND NO PRETT SHOES.EVELYN
Tommy 04-Jun-2010 03:01
See my posting June 02 2010.

Toenail removal surgery and shoes: I wanted point this out to those who may be considering elective surgery and those who may be going through the healing phase (like me). If you plan to have elective surgery do it in the warmer months. This gives you options to wear open toe shoes or sandals. Also most podiatrists recommend to wear a sandal for the first two weeks following surgery. This true if you have had a complete removal and also disturbed the matrix with a chemical or electric burn. They generally don’t provide you with a post-op shoe for this surgery. Now, I have had to wear shoes to work and trust me it is painful. Even with a sneaker it has been causing pain. So I invested in a post-op shoe (it is about $20) to wear to work. There are two good reasons for this: one, it gives legitimacy to your medical condition and two, if you have to wear a business suit to work, sandals or flip-flops looks odd (especially for the guys). I will post pics soon. Speedy healing to all.....
SAD ABOUT TOES 03-Jun-2010 22:42
MY TOE GOT A MAJOR STAPH INFECTION BROUGHT ON BY TOENAIL FUNGAS THE NAIL WAS REMOVED WITH LASER AND CHEMICAL IN JULY 09 THEN THE LEFT GRAND TOE DONE DEC 09 BOTH NOW HAVE NAILS COMING BACK EVEN THOUGH TWO DIFRENT DOCTORS DID IT AND FROM WHAT I HEAR THIS IS COMMON . DOCTOR SAID HE CAN JUST BURN IT AGAIN AFTER TAKING MONTHS FOR THEM TO HEAL THE FIRST TIME I THOUGHT I NEED A SECOND OPNION GOT IT YESTERDAY AND HE SAID NO TO LASER THAT IT IS TOO CLOSE TO THE BONE AND REBURNING COMES WITH LOTS OF RISK SO HE TOOK A TOOL TO GRIND DOWN THE NAIL AND I GO BACK AGAIN EVERY 11 WEEKS AND HOPEFULLY THIS WILL WORK SO I CAN STAY IN MY SNEAKERS AND BE ACTIVE . I WOULD ADVISE PEOPLE EVEN AT THAT OFFICE THE DOCTOR SAID LOTS OF TIMES THE NAIL IS NOT COMPLETLEY REMOVED AND PIECES ALMOST ALWAYS GROW BACK . WITH CHEMICAL OR LASER STILL NO GUARANTEE
Meredith 02-Jun-2010 11:06
@Tommy

I would love to see the pictures of your progress. I have been taking pictures of my big toes the past few weeks while they've been healing, but I'm too chicken to put them online. I'm afraid my doctor will recognize my toes. lol.
Tommy 02-Jun-2010 02:33
I posted this back in December 2, 2009: "I have had nail fungus on both my big toenails. Used tropical cream prescribed by the podiatrist. Some of the fungus cured but still the nail is having some streaks. Now I have got ingrown toenails because of the fungus. Visited podiatrist last week, and he gave a nail softener to ease the pressure. It is still only a few days. Not much of an improvement. I am thinking of getting both my big toenails removed permanently. So I don't have to worry about fungus or painful ingrown toenails. Any thoughts appreciated"

Well after about a year of trying various prescription creams and gels, I finally thought to get a second opinion and made an appointment last Wednesday (May 26) with another podiatrist in the area. She listened well as I described my previous issues and various medications I have tried. After thoroughly examining both my feet she recommended that I should have my right toenail partially removed (with phenol). She also mentioned that I may still have problems with the fungus down the road. She also gave me the option of permanently removing my right toe nail so that I don’t have deal with this issue again. After numbing the toe she removed the toenail and I was out of the office within an hour. The first night I did not have any pain since the toe was numb until about 10am the next morning. So far the recovery has been ok, and I will be back at the docs next week to check how things are progressing. I have taken some pics and will post them on Flickr and let you guys know the link. speedy healing to all

Jayne 30-May-2010 02:08
I dropped a lump of wood on my big toe which was already suffering from a fungal growth cause by penicillen. The toe went black and blue and swelled rapidly. I bathed it in Epsom salts 3 X daily,and after 5 days went to Dr for nail removal. The most painful part was the first needle with anaesthetic, tornique on, nail off, toe dressed, bandage too tight, purple toe again, bandage off, another dressing and bandaid on. Now 5 days later, am bare footed around the house for nailbed to dry, fungus gone, toe not swollen, no painkillers. Am hoping nail wont regrow, but....! Am so pleased I had it removed, has been no fuss and no pain. maybe I am lucky.
Guest 23-May-2010 17:34
my toes healed so darn slow one took 4 months and now the nails are coming back doctor said no big deal this happens alot and you just have to have the procedure done again :(
Meredith 23-May-2010 01:51
I just wanted to say if anyone wants to permanently remove both big toenails I suggest asking your doc if you can do one toe at a time. I say that because I had one toe looking and feeling almost perfect by day 10 - it has been a dream healing for that toe and the other toe is healing slowly - it leaves me limping when I wear shoes and I had to go on Levaquin because of it - very frustrating. If both of my toes were healing slowly I would be a mess.
Guest 16-May-2010 22:01
My daughter had both toenails removed last week due to an infection in her big toes, believed caused by a contaminated metallic nail polish. Since the surgery, she has been unable to get the mesh tulle gauze removed from the bare toe nail bed. She spent the past three days soaking it in warm water with the antiseptic the doctor had given her, Epsom salts, Epsom salts and vinegar, under the bathtub faucet, etc. etc., all the while screaming in pain when the mesh gauze STILL would not release. She was ready return to the doctor tomorrow (Monday) for him to numb and remove the gauze because she could no longer stand the pain of trying to remove it herself. Then, I happened upon a suggestion to soak the injured toe in olive oil, let it soak in, then remove the gauze. At her wits end, she thought she'd give it a try. First, she soaked her feet in the regular antiseptic/water solution. Then she heated olive oil in the microwave until it was warm, and poured it over one toe. Within a few minutes, the gauze totally released from the nail bed with no tears or screaming. She did the same on the second toe, and bingo! Mesh gauze gone, no tears or wailing. Afterward, she soaked her toes in the antiseptic solution to remove any residual oil or debris. If you are at your wits end trying to get the mesh gauze off the bare nail bed, try the warm oil treatment. It really works, and she wanted me to let everyone know that if you find yourself in the same horribly painful dilemma, to give it a try.
guest 13-May-2010 03:21
to boyfriend with infection what ever you do do not get procedure done until infection is gone then make sure its a good doctor mine coat 600$ each toe and after 9 months nails are now growing back and toes need to be redone again
Meredith 12-May-2010 21:18
To guest Below I also don't have insurance and just had the procedure done. It can cost around $300 to $350 PER TOE. You can get a discount if you pay in full (cash) the day the procedure is done - ask about that and ask how much of a discount you will get.

If your boyfriend's toe is really bad he may have an infection. I'm not saying he does but it's a possibility you might want to think about. Antibiotics without insurance can run from $100 to $250 for a full course depending on what the doc recommends.

I'll be checking back here in case you have any more questions.
guest 12-May-2010 00:11
My boyfriend has had ingrown toenail after ingrown toenail and the basic procedure never helps. He has decided that he wants to get it removed. Can anyone give me the average cost? He doesn't have insurance. BTW of all the ingrown toenails I have seen on the internet,
I've never seen one as bad as his.
sad about toes 03-May-2010 23:17
no real thing as such as permant for me months of misary 5 months for each darn big toe and the darn nail is gtowing back in a piece on the side of the toe . back in sept doc ripped it out thought it was tough skin wasnt it was nail now he said lets try leaveing it alone think he is scared to work on me now winder if it can be keft alone
Guest 29-Apr-2010 15:20
only do it if you have too
Guest 27-Apr-2010 23:25
I'm going to have my left big toe nail removed soon, and the thought of it knocks me quite sick. I've had ingrowing toe nail operations before which wasn't too bad... is it anything like that? Any advice would be very very welcome. :-)
Thanks.
Guest 25-Apr-2010 22:48
what do you do if after 9 months the nail starts to grow back on the side of the toe not the bottom I cant go through this again
sam 20-Apr-2010 20:29
I have had both my big toenails removed permanently about 10 years ago. I remember the best solution to keep infections away in recovery mode is to apply a gauze soaked in iodine. My doctor supplied me with those and i found the healing process went smoothly. Has anyone ever tried to use glue on false toenails or pre-glued ones that are less sticky?
I would really like to wear pretty shoes this summer without my feet being stared at lol. I am tempted to try out false toenails, revelon makes some nice ones but i am scared it might damage the skin?
Jana B19-Apr-2010 14:36
I was glad to find this site and read everyone's input. I had both grand toenails removed after learning that laser treatment would not accomplish ridding my toes of that nasty fungus. I wasn't prepared to have that occur the same day I went in for the laser treatment, but thought if I did not have it done at that time, I would never return for the removal. It has been three weeks only, but a pretty painful three weeks. The comments I have read have been pretty assuring and helpful in understanding this recovery time. Thanks to all!
Deanne 16-Apr-2010 12:17
Co-incidental - I, myself had my big toe nail on my right foot removed, too ! Better than dealing with an ingrown toe nail ! I'm still in recovery mode - cream and cleanliness !
Heath 15-Apr-2010 17:44
This is not a joke Beverley.
You have an infection which can turn into gangrene very quickly.
Seriously. Get to a hospital straight away.
Guest 15-Apr-2010 17:36
Jesus, Beverley. Get to a hospital before you lose your foot..
This is not a place for medical answers. This is some nutter who took photos of her toenails being removed.
You'll be much better off talking to a doctor. :)
Martha 15-Apr-2010 13:44
I had my left big toe nail removed on March 2 and it is still REALLY giving me fits. EVERY week I have to go back and the doc has to open the nail fold to let it drain properly. Otherwise it gets REAL red, swollen and hurst like heck. I've been soaking it like he told me and doing everything that he said. I am a diabetic and this is really scaring me. The toe will just start throbbing and pain will shoot across the ball of my foot at the base of the other toes. My blood sugar numbers have been higher than normal ever since this procedure. Any advice?
Beverly 15-Apr-2010 05:47
I have a bad infection in my 10 day old removed large toenail. I can not take antibiotics and soaking seems to help some. Any suggestions? My entire foot is now swollen.
Patti 14-Apr-2010 12:48
I had this done on both big toes less than 24 hours ago. 1st thing, I didn't feel the needles at all. Didn't feel the procedure at all. Only discomfort was from the bandages....felt like a bandaid on too tight. Just took of dressing, didn't hurt, washed my feet, reapplied ointment and a bandaid. No pain, no sting, no nothing. For the 1st time EVER, I have no toenail pain!!! So far, best thing I have ever done!!!
guest 30-Mar-2010 21:04
sarah the infection makes scense from all your poor toe went through but the jumping does not if I wear you I would go to an ortho and have him see whats going on you could have nerve damage .
SARAH 30-Mar-2010 20:30
Hi i had an accident 3 weeks ago when my husband dropped a board from the loft and it landed on my foot. It broke my big toe and smashed it really. I lost my nail and my nail bed was very damaged and had the top and back of my toe stitched into shape. I have now got a bad infection in it as well. The pain is bear able but can someone please tell me if its normal for my foot to be jumping all the time? Is it the nerves. Nobody seems to answer my question when i ask. This jumping is driving me mad it happens nearly every minute. Thanks
bryguy 26-Mar-2010 14:26
Does anyone use fake toenails?
DeeDee 25-Mar-2010 18:27
Dear Rose,
Patience is what I wish for you! Go get some lovely, fun flip-flops and wear them for two months.........that is how long it took both my big toes to heal. I didn't even attempt close-toed shoes last summer; luckily I have a very understanding boss and co-workers! I kept the toes covered with large anti-stick guaze bandaids (flesh-colored) and I soon became very comfortable with my "fashion-statement"! The oozing (ick - I hate that word!) will continue for a time......... soak, keep them clean, covered and look forward to better foot health!
Dee Dee
darn toes 13-Mar-2010 15:19
I had the right toe laserd and chemical burn in July 09 and the left toe the same dec 3rd such a long healing process but one thing I wonder about is both toes get so red whe I am on them for too long and do any kind of exercise does any one else have this problem . I feel like my toes will never be the same again . I fianlly got in some sneakers and they have to be wider all my old ones no longer an option . I truely cant see how runners can do this surgery and be able to run after .
Rose 10-Mar-2010 20:57
My name is Rose and I had permanent removal of the Toe nail beside my big toe on the right foot along with the removal of the nerve and nailbed. I was suffering with major pain in the nail on and off and the past year not even the bed sheet could touch it without waking me in the night. I finally opted to have it done when my husband noticed how thick it was getting and how curled in. I attempted to have the sides cut out by a girl who does pedicures and it relieved the pain for a short time then it grew back in a fierce way making it way worse then it ever had been. So off to the podiatrist Iwent and finally surcumed to it one week today. I was told to not walk on it as much as possible. To elevate the foot on pillows when sitting or laying. to shower every day at 24 hour mark with bandage on. remove after showering and then use the solution wash to toe. pat dry apply antibiotic cream to gauze and wrap loosely with bandage. SHOES WHAT THE HECK. when will I ever where real shoes again. I tried to drive 4 days after surgery and the burning and pain and rubbing from shoes made it unbearable i hid in the house for 3 more days till i ventured out to drive over 40 minutes back to my specialist to have the surgery site checked. then back home again. I attempted to where sandles in the house but bumped my toe on the leg of the kitchen table and that hurt so i put on a slip on shoe with a closed toe area next. then when reaching in the fridege a coke can came rolling out and bounced off my shoe. thank god i had a closed shoe but it still hurt. Hazards of staying home I guess and my husband thought it was dangerous sending me to the mall at least there I only spend his money not injure myself. Can't wait to be driving again. Shopping again. Having fun with the ladies. etc. My doctor used a lazer thing to burn the nerve for regrowth and zap it with something. I feel like I have a raw nerve throbbing on my toe. I'm sitll at the beginnning stages so i find it bothersome and very painful. I have a wedding comming up for my niece and I will be MC or Mistress of Ceremony running around all night. I still don't know what shoes I'll where and I hate the thought of having no toenial. feel dismembered weird eh. Well I always do pedicures and even have beautiful flowers and dessigns on mybig toes. now I feel I have ugly feet. I guess Im a bit of a whiner. But I have other medical conditions in my life and this is now another. I have fibromyalgia and your pain level always feels higher even to someone touching you so if you have that illness be prepared to feel really sore. My doctor said that having the whole nail verses part is alot more painful and takes longer to heal. I asked him today why I am still bleeding and he said thats normal. hope all you toe jammers are jamming to music and trying to have some smiles while you heal. When you ice it don't ice the toe ice the main nerve in the foot which is just below your ankle on the top part of your foot. ice 15 on 30off first day 24 hours. i continued to ice my foot in that area where the doctor marked an x with a pen most of the week a few times a day. He told me I don't have to do that anymore but it still really hurts. I don't understand the scabbing part or the doctor removing it he never told me I would have to do that. ooooch wish me luck.
Guest 08-Mar-2010 03:56
tell ya one thing when you have no toe nails injurys are worse dont drop anything on your toe or you are setting yourself up for an infection if not worse . Oh and you need to to put sun screen on your toe now as it is more likely to get skin cancer
DeeDee 04-Mar-2010 14:20
A non-horror story: I had both toenails from my large toes permanently removed in June 2009. I wore flip-flops mostly all last summer, till about mid-August. I abided strictly by the doctors advice (keep them loosly bandaged using non-stick 4x4s, apply small amount of anitbiotic every time you change the bandage, shower with the bandages, apply new bandages 2x day, soak 2x daily in 3cups warm H2O and 2 tsp. table salt).
The healing process seemed to take forever and all the futzing around with them got very tiresome, but the results are spectacular! To look at my feet you cannot tell there is no nail on the large toes - the skin is very smooth and slight pinkish. I keep a very light pink or clear polish on the remaining nails and am on my way!
Wishing you all success with your "process"!
darn toes 26-Feb-2010 17:06
I went back to my foot doctor yesterday I had my left toe doen dec 3rd two weeks agao he cut most of the scab off along with cutting me .There is still a piece of scab on the toe and he said it could take a nother month to come off its been 13 weeks thats just nuts my last toe was done with scabs in 13 weeks. Then to read about some of you having nails grow back is scary after having such an ordeal with just healing from this . I just want my feet bnack to where I can wear shoes instead of the sandles I have been in scine april . Doctor told me to soak scab off two weeks ago after he couldnt cut iit all of now he says not to not sure what to think :(
theskybeblue 23-Feb-2010 07:21
I had this surgery on my left foot a few weeks ago, and all I can say is it is complete and utter bliss not having constant excruciating pain. i have had recurring ingrown nails for the last 18 years and the last 10 year i have spent 90% of my life limping, which is not fun as i'm naturally very active and find it very hard not to run when i am moving between places.

When i was at school i was unbeatable on long distance and cross country runs and also won awards for 200/100 metre sprints, so having to be carefull how far i walk/run and not being able to run long distances due to the absolute certainty of having a nasty swollen, bleeding and infected toe was absolutely infuriating. The anticipation is killing me waiting untill it is healed enough for me to have a good run! when I was younger I just took being able to run for granted, i never bothered training I was just good at it, now i just cant wait to have the freedom run as far as i want and as long without the risk of getting a horrible infection

The actual procedure was very quick and relatively painless apart from the injections, though i did know what to expect as i had already had multiple procedures on both my greater toenails for the lasst 18 years though never the permanent removal of an entire nail. I actually got to watch the procedure which i found interesting(both my parents have a medical background so i am not remotely squeemish, they used to discuss thier work over the dinner table). The only problem i had was my own commplacency, i am fairly ignorant to pain and quite quickly forgot i had just had surgery and went out which ended in the dressing almost completely disintigrating(not really a problem as i can dress a toe better than most nurses). My second hiccup was again my own fault, i ran up a hill and proptly stubbed my toe on a raised paving slab OUCH! for the next 3 days i was in even more pain than just after the procedure, and what was even more annoying was at that point it was just a dried up scab that didnt need a dressing and this took me all the way back to square 1. out came the first aid kit

If you lead an active lifestyle and have reccuring nail problems DO IT! get rid of that horrible nail so it never darkens your door again. you wont regret it even if you stub your toe, when the pain goes is is utter bliss. also i have previously ended up with mild blood poisioning from an infected toe before so even if it is painful aftter wards i much prefer having temporary pain over being permanently dead as blood poisioning is extremely serious

Guest 21-Feb-2010 06:13
In summer of 2006 I had my big left toenail permenebtly removed.
Procedure: Cold spray - Local anesthetic - Removal - Phenol - Cortisone on raw nail bed - Gauze and Babdage.
Post Op: Keep wrapped up toe moist with witch hazel. I did this religiously throughout the day (I have an office job). I kept the toe moist because my podiatrist ask that I come back every two weeks for debridement to make sure the healed skin will be nice and smooth.
Debridement: I dread this as no anesthetic is given. Doc just use his metal tools to scrap the wound.
After 4 weeks: Debridement was complete. Removed the gauze. I now soak with salt water, I still use witch hazel after the soak because I find it helps with the healing ( some people use hydrogen peroxide). After air drying the area I would apply cortisone cream and neosporin to reduce inflammation and increase healing. The area healed up in 8 weeks. It was more sensitive than what I was used...which makes sense since there's no toenail to protect the area. After a few more months I got used to it and I am very happy with my decision to have the surgery :)

One year post surgery a small piece of nail was growing back (left edge). I left it alone for a few year until last week when I was tired out clipping it.

Procedure: Same as before. Doc cut a small piece of strip gauze directly in the hole/wound to help drain the fluid. This was a great little mofication since it makes removing the bandages much easier and less painful.
Post Op: Leave bandage on for 48 hours. After which clean area with H2O2 using a cotton swab, apply prescribed topical antibiotics and cortisone. Apply neosporin.
Comment: Toe is healing nicely. The area being operated on is much smaller so the time to heal will be faster. At the rate it is healing I think it'll be good as new in a few weeks. Hopefully no more nail regrowth.

When removing the bandage it is key to thoroughly moisten the bandage to allow scab, seepage etc to separate from the bandage/gauze so you don't accidentally painfully yank it off. You can soak in salt water, take a shower, use saline or H2O2...the key if to make sure you clean the wound thoroughly after removing the bandage otherwise you rinse infection.

Doc recommend to cover wound because you don't want dust etc on your wound...more crude you'll need to clean off from the wound site as it is healing.

I wore sandals the whole time to allow area to heal quickly.

Fake Nail: Even with the glue they don't stay on for me and it's obvious that it is a fake nail.

Acrylic Nail: Looks real but I found it uncomfortable as something hard is constantly digging into the skin o the toe. Removal is a b&@!@ some of the acrylic seeped deep into the edge of my big toe the only way to remove it was to yank it out...along with a small but signifcant piece of flesh...ouch. In my opinion I am never doing this again not worth the pain.

Toenail implant: Is available though for me I'm okay with how my big toe looks and will not be entertaining this procedure.

Cost for permanent big toenail removal: About 600
Dana 20-Feb-2010 20:02
Hi! Dana again here.... I posted a while back... I was the one who had 2 courses of Levaquin for a non-determined infection... any whos... almost immediately after my last post.... I started to heal just fine! It was so weird.... one day I was soaking still and miserable, then the "top skin" came off and boom! all done! I'm wearing all my shoes again :) a little sensitive where the nail was but OMG, SO much better then when I had a toenail!!!!! My healing time was around 10 weeks... FOr all of you who posted, I have to say that it's worth it. THe phenol burn killed it and I've never been a happier toe person then I am right now! :)
Tracy 20-Feb-2010 13:44
Poor PT who posted below, I feel sorry for you. I have a good news story at last as the PNA I had done on Monday seems to be healing nicely. The infection I'd had for a month has gone hopefully, no need for more antibiotics and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel - and maybe a shoe on my foot by the end of Feb. I hope I'm not counting my chickens before they've hatched but I thought I should share this to give anyone else who's going to have the partial nail + phenol procedure a bit of encouragement.
Guest 18-Feb-2010 09:53
P.T.
Hi Guys,
I am back. I have done a permanent removal of four nails on both feet back in November 2008. I had them surgically removed ( no use of phenol) and the Nail Matrix cut off. I had stitches all around the nails and unbearable pain for two days.

Darlings all of them are growing back – not whole but little pieces underneath the skin. Although I don’t have pain because of the infection and the ingrown nail, there is still some sensitivity and the tip of my toe has grew some hardened skin which hurts when pressure applied – I think is calluses or corns – it hurts when and after I do my running.

My toenails look ugly and I always try to hide them when swimming or when I wear open shoes, I think especially for ladies it can be really embarrassing. I think that I need another operation to remove the pieces of nails that have grown back BUT I am not yet ready for more pain and restrain from my activities.

It is really frustrating that there is neither cure for this condition, nor any plastic surgery options to make the toenails look better post surgery or to implant a fake nail.

Any podiatrist or plastic sergeants there please find something to help us!!!! It is strange! There are so many people with this problem, so many of us would pay a lot of money to get our toenails look nice and pain free, yet nothing has been found to help all of us. Wake up you professionals you could be making profits along with putting a smile on our faces!!!!!!!!!!

I would like to encourage all of you to share information on this subject as this website is one of a couple recourses on this subject.

WISH YOU ALL WELL
Tracy 17-Feb-2010 15:27
I fully sympathise about not being able to wear shoes - I'm still in a thick sock and Teva sandal with a boot on the other foot. I had the other side of a big toe nail partially removed and phenolised on Monday. The injections weren't as painful as the other side of the SAME nail which I had done on 4th Jan exactly 6 wks ago but this might be because I knew what to expect in terms of discomfort. Still no idea why the other side flared up after no problem in the past. I took three lots of painkillers afterwards and since then i.e. just two days later, the toe just feels sore. I have to go back on Friday for a dressing as the toe is still infected. I feel very fortunate that this has been done on the NHS in the UK, given how much people say they've had to pay elsewhere. It's good to know that longer than expected healing times are not unusual. I sympathise with others about that too.
darn toes 12-Feb-2010 16:50
doctor tried cutting off scab yesterday and i now have some left on along with a cut does anyone know how to get the rest off .pluse I have such deep cracks in the side of my toe looks like the side of my toes are cut .
Guest 10-Feb-2010 22:14
Scotoe if you dont need to get it done dont did you know no doctor guarentees the nails wont grow back after all the long healing and pain Only do it if you must and have no other choice
Scotoe-go 09-Feb-2010 15:39
All your comments most helpful, but can't help thinking is it really worth it? Left big toe nail looks bad right one not so, but Doc says they dont really want to go down the route of taking it /them out unless I really need to. Any ideas or is it just the worry of it going pear-shape , (the op not the toe!!). Any advice would be welcome.
darn toes 07-Feb-2010 15:45
All I can say is that this takes a long time to heal TOO long the right toe that was done in july 09 still is sensitive and keeps growing pieces of skin which I thought could not happen over scar tissue and the toe still gets red if on it too long .The left toe done dec 3rd still has a scab on it and doctor said its not done healing so go back on feb 17th 11 weeks .I have not been able to wear shoes since this whole mess started and I live wear it snows . Foot doctor said lots of times the nail can grow back too . I had mine done with a laser and chemical so major burn . I just wonder if I will be able to get my life back again and be able to hike and wear real shoes .Right now with snow and still in sandles I pray I dont get frostbite !!1 Hope small toes dont end up like this although the toe next to the big toe has become swollen .
WalkingNM 03-Feb-2010 23:52
Just had all 5 nails permanently removed from left foot (six hours ago). Middle three toes were already partially numb from previous neuroma surgerys. The shots did NOT really hurt, just a little pinch. Entire procedure only took 15 minutes. Doctor said only to wash toes every day and change dressing (using only triple antibiotic and bandaids) daily. NO mention was made of elevation or "icing" or soaking or scrubbing. When I got home I took an oxycodone (left over from a root canal) and slept for 3 hours. Doc did not give me a prescription for pain killer ... said I wouldn't need it.

Thanks so much for having this Web Site and Blog. I was well prepared, although I was expecting it to be worse than it really was.
real_army_wife 02-Feb-2010 01:36
Here I am again. I posted in October 08, after a partial removal. Then again Sept 09 for a full removal of my left grand toenail. I found out today that I will be having the right grand toenail removed. The pain I experienced from the last one was intense. It burned for about 2 weeks. I was just bearable with 2 percocet and one 800 ml Ibuprofen on board. I clearly remember saying that I would NEVER do this again, yet here I am . At the time, I couldn't look past the pain. I have to say though that it did get better after 2 or 3 weeks. The nail has not grown back completely, but has grown faster then the year expectancy. One tip I do have, is if you have trouble taking off the dressing the first time around like I did, soak it in a bucket until it softens. I soaked mine for about an hour. Later in the week, the Doctor had trouble removing the dressing so soaked it in hydrogen peroxide. It burned like the devil itself, so only recommend that if soaking doesn't help. In fact, I remember calling my friend to have her search this site on removal tips. HA!

I truly admire the strong people on this site. Some of you are tuff as nails (no pun intended)! I am a mother of 4, so know what pain is...... this happens to be one of them! :oP Good luck to everyone!
Tracy 01-Feb-2010 15:36
Four weeks after PNA (I'm the same Tracy who posted on 24th or thereabouts) and I have a crusty scab there but no pain. The other side though has definitely become infected so I'm on antibiotics yet again. The doc reckons I might have to have that side done as well. I don't think it's my imagination but the remaining nail looks more curved than before so I'm wondering whether to have the whole blooming thing removed permanently. Otherwise the narrower but more curved nail could cause problems again. I'm so frustrated I haven't been able to go swimming for over a month now when I normally go 3 times a week.
Guest 31-Jan-2010 16:16
I have had both my toenails removed last year...I love that they are pain free! I was wondering if anyone out there has heard if it is possible to tattoo color onto where the nail was so that I can wear sandals again...it may be a stupid question, but I really miss wearing sandals in the warm weather.
Mel 26-Jan-2010 23:41
I'm at just over 6 weeks of healing now and my toe is doing much better! I would almost describe healing the nail removal with phenol like healing a foot ulcer (that's what my experience was like, anyhow). Every day now, the "redness" and scabbing gets less and less. It's just a small spot now and I'm still having a little drainage. The key to healing mine more quickly was definitely the "silvedine" (Rx only burn cream) It was sooo soothing and helps heal burns really quickly. That's exactly what this is....a chemical burn. I even waitressed a few shifts this past weekend and it was pretty good. A little sore afterwards, but it's come a long way!! Thanks for this page...it has been a tremendous help!
Paul Jacobson 26-Jan-2010 13:04
HI All,

I came across this site and thought that i would share my experiences of having my right big toe avulsion and root removal done.

I had mine done just over three weeks ago, as i had lost my nail playing handball, i have had 3 courses of antibiotics to clean the infection i had before the op but to no avail.

I have to start with the op, i have a huge fear of needles and was not looking forward to the local anithestic. You can have this done by General but i advised not, its an op that last less than ten mins.

I have to admit the needles were unconfortable and not really what i would say painful just feels horrible as the syringe is turned unside skin and anithestic used.

When the anithestic kicks in you can feel nothing at all.

Although when the Anithestic wore off i was hit with wave after wave of throbbing pains on my toe. I was given Co-codemol for the pain, let me tell you they do NOT work. I was in agongy for 3 days before i had my first check up. Was them Prescibed Tramadol and they are tremendous after they kick in you cant feel a thing.

Ill warn everyone having this done, the first dressing change is painfull, but after that with every change they get better.

Just head the advice keep your foot raised above your hip and try not to move around unless neccessary.

As for driving i was only told to drive if i felt i could do an emergency stop.

All in all now i have no pain after the first week over though i got a further infection, but im on antibiotics now and thats clearing up very nicely.

Im hoping to go back into work next monday 5 days time, but ill be wearing sandals till this is completely healed

Thats my experience hope all goes well for your ops
Mitch Sulc 24-Jan-2010 05:41
I have lost both big toe nails due to accidents. The left one was taken off when I was helping a friend move a large 1950's stove and he shoved it right into my toe tearing the nail right off! The right one was run over when we were pushing a 1956 Cadillac. My toes are numb anyway from damaged nerves in my back so I really didn't feel anything when it happened. The right one seems to be growing back ok, but the left one comes in really abnornal and after about 6 to 8 months, it gets loose and then splits and curls and I can usually pull it off with little effort. I have done this now for about 2 years. I have talked to my doctor about having it permenantly removed but he seems hesitant about doing it. I told him that I want it gone!! It's ugly!! Thanks for your web site! It doesn't look like it is a very complicated procedure and since my nail is practically gone anyway. I am going in next week and tell him I want it gone and if he won't do it, I will find someone that will!! Thanks again! Mitch
Tracy 23-Jan-2010 00:33
I had a partial nail avulsion on 4 Jan, one side of my big toe. It had become infected and antibiotics didn't clear it up. So painful. The procedure didn't hurt, apart from the injections which were VERY painful but only lasted a couple of minutes. When the anaesthetic wore off I just had some stabbing pains but had already taken paracetamol. I only took two more doses then didn't need to take anymore. Unfortunately I've developed an infection on the other side of the nail three weeks on, though the side the doc operated on has healed and is free of pain, hoorah. I can't understand why this has happened as I haven't worn shoes, have rested the foot and only hobbled on my heel. Also, it's on the bottom corner so can't be a nail spike. I'm now on antibiotics again. Has anyone else has this happen? Good luck to everyone else.
Daniel Strand 16-Jan-2010 23:35
I had my large nail removed 4 hours ago and it was numb for a few hours, but now, the toe is burning. Thanks for all you posted so I know what to expect.
Dubliner 16-Jan-2010 20:14
An earlier comment by Dr. Bliss directly answers my question:

lbliss wrote: "Just having the toenail removed - but not permanently (i.e. with the burning of the nail bed) is not painful and requires no recovery time except for a sensitive toe (esp in the shower!). The only painful part of this is the shots to numb the toe. But once that's done, the rest is cake."
Dubliner 16-Jan-2010 19:29
Hi all

My dermatologist is doing a non-permanent removal of my right big toenail (possible melanoma). He told me it's a simple procedure: I'll be in and out in 15 min and can drive myself home and go to work the next day.

Does anyone know if non-permanent removal (ie, not killing the nail matrix cells with phenol) is less traumatic and quicker to heal?

Also, was anyone here so disabled afterwards they couldn't drive?

Thanks for this amazing site and all the comments.

Daniel Strand 16-Jan-2010 18:46
I had my large nail removed 4 hours ago and it was numb for a few hours, but now, the toe is burning. Thanks for all you posted so I know what to expect.
Daniel Strand 16-Jan-2010 07:10
I had my large nail removed 4 hours ago and it was numb for a few hours, but now, the toe is burning. Thanks for all you posted so I know what to expect.
Dana 15-Jan-2010 18:20
Mel-- thanks for the reply!
And also to the other guest... yeah, I think my healing time is going to fall in the 10-12 week range... I have almost finished my second course of Levaquin (which by the way is a devil drug I swear... tendonitis HORRIBLE, but worth it to heal the toe!). The toe is starting to ACTUALLY look like it's healing a bit now.... 8.5 weeks and I can see a light at the end of the tunnel! Still soaking 1-2 times a day and still haveing some yellowish drainage but it's lookin up! :) Good luck to everyone! :)
guest 15-Jan-2010 16:18
does anyone else have skin growing in the lower corners of the toe after removal .My toe that was done in July had this happen after 10 weeks of having a scab .just a tiny piece in the corner but it was hard almost felt like a nail .The doctor yanked it out with tweezers and said it wqas too soon for it to be a nail . That was in Sept and it still has a piece of that tough skin there now in Jan so worried it might be the nail growing back .That toe had 3 surgries from a staph infection and then permant toenail removal in July with laser and chemical .
Guest 14-Jan-2010 01:34
Folks, expect at least 10-12 weeks for a complete heal. I had both my great toenails removed on Sept. 17 and they look just great. I was lucky not to have a reaction to the Amerigel--it worked great. My doc did a super job....had no infections or real pain to speak of. I went to see her every two weeks. She took the dead skin and scabs off as needed. Simply used antibacterial soap for soaking as Epsom Salts burned unbearably. Yes, non-stick gauze pads are a must. Be sure and keep it covered except for occasional airing. I, too, had both of them assaulted a few times...grandkids are death on sore toes!! Hang in there--I know it seems like an eternity, but they really will get better. I can wear all kinds of shoes now that I haven't been able to wear in years. Wish I had done it years ago, but vanity prevented me from doing so!!
Mel 12-Jan-2010 12:20
Mine has been a royal pain to heal!! I am just over 4 weeks now and it's still really painful and oozing. I went to the foot dr. yesterday so he could check it out. I had an infection which is gone (just wanted to make sure) and I ended up having a sensitivity to the Amerigel ointment. It caused me alot of burning/stinging and pain. I started using this "Silver Sulfadiazine" cream and it's helping alot. It's really soothing and helping with the pain and healing. Just putting a thin layer on a non-stick gauze twice a day. The Amerigel caused the skin all around the nail bed to blister, so I had all this hanging dead skin that he had to remove yesterday (ouch) and he also kind of "scraped" the nail bed a little. It was quite painful...then he dumped some bright purple liquid on it (I believe it was gentian violet) which is an antibacterial/antifungal liquid. It seemed to dry it up a little...looked like someone colored my toe with a purple marker!! Anyhow, it was tender and swollen that evening. Definitely a slow healing process (for me anyhow) I would say a good 6-8 weeks at least.
Guest 12-Jan-2010 05:30
I just had all 5 on my right foot removed and nailbeds destroyed too.
I am very surprised at the time it takes to heal.
It has been 3 weeks now and a lot of oozing and a small amount of healing.
I am guessing another 6 weeks of healing to go.
Dan
Guest 11-Jan-2010 23:41
i had my big toenail removed on dec 7, 2009 and am still having problems with the healing. could part of the problem be that after showering in the morning and putting on shoes and socks it's not getting enough air to heal; if i have a few days off and am at home barefoot it starts to look much better; would really like to hear from someone with the same problem
guest 05-Jan-2010 16:59
Hi there I had my right toe nail permanently removed in July with laser and chemical burn .The toe had a staph infection before that with 3 surgerys .The right toe took 10 weeks to heal 4 weeks draining and the rest scabbing .When the scab was cut off I finally had a almost normal looking nail bed .Just Had left grand toe done on Dec 3rd lots of draining this time and made the mistake of putting amiregel on some of the scab dont do that let scab dry out .I have the scab now and still a soft spot where the amerigel is .Sure hope this toe heals faster such a hard part of the body too heal .Good luck everyone :)
Mel 04-Jan-2010 15:59
Dana...mine was starting to do better. I'm at about 3 weeks and ended up with a massive infection about a week and a half ago. The antibiotics did their job and my healing was going great...until my husband stepped on it with his running sneakers yesterday. My problem at this point is that it keeps on getting bumped or stepped on. It hurts to wear a shoe...even a sock, so what the heck am I supposed to do?? I feel like this stupid thing will never heal, and to think...I have 2 more to have removed :-( Honestly, I think it's just one of those "healing" things that some people heal more quickly than others. I am slow to heal. I had outer edge removal on the other big toe and it took at least 8 weeks or so.
Dana 04-Jan-2010 02:29
Heyo all... I've been stalking this page for some time now... I had my left great toenail permanently removed the day before thanksgiving. I had 3 shots, and Phenol burn (applied FOUR, yes FOUR times to the nail bed). Procedure went great actually. Lidocaine wore off fast (my body doesn't do Lidocaine very well) but no need for more then Ibuprofen for the first 2-3 days. I soaked it 2x a day in antibacterial soapy water, rinsed with H2O2 (as ordered) and kept it covered with telfa and bandages. Well... at 4 weeks there was increased tenderness/redness around the matrix area. I did 5 days of Levaquin and it looked SOOOO much better. The doc told me I could stop the Levaquin, use Bactroban Cream, drop my soaks to once a day and keep it covered. WELL.... today I am at 6.5 weeks and had to call the doc again due to increased pain/redness at the matrix site. I'm going to start Levaquin AGAIN. I have also started Epsom salt soaks 2x a day again. It still looks the same at 6.5 weeks as it did at 3-4 weeks. I am VERY FRUSTRATED and basically sick of dealing with this crap. I'm a nurse and for some reason, I can't seem to get this dang toe healed... anyone else have problems like this recently? Anyone have longer then normal healing time? Pre-Thank you for any responses....
Mel 28-Dec-2009 04:11
Update on my healing process....horrible!! I had my big toenail removed 2 weeks ago and unfortunately, I developed an infection. Of course, this had to happen over Chrismas. Actually, on the 23rd, I started to notice that maybe it was starting to get infected, about a week and a half after removal. On Christmas Eve, we went to visit friends and their dog mashed it (I about fainted) and on Christmas Day it was really sore. I woke up at about 2 am on Christmas night in excruciating pain. I removed the dressing and all around the nail bed was very red and tender. Luckily, I was able to call the foot dr. at his home the next morning and he called me in some antibotics. Not sure what went wrong. I took good care of it, using sterile bandages, washing my hands before handling anything. I guess these things happen, right? So, I could feel the antibotics working within 24 hrs...the pain had decreased a good bit. This evening, I took the bandage off to let it air out a little and the phone rang. (the nail bed was starting to dry out a little at this point...didn't look great but it did have some improvement) So, I gently got up to hobble to the phone and I tripped over a cardboard box (from a christmas present) that someone had left lying around. It poked the nail bed and literally gushed blood. The pain about brought me to my knees. I just checked it and it's not too bad, it just made a small puncture and does feel OK now. Non stick gauze bandages are a MUST!
Stubby 21-Dec-2009 20:43
Referring soaking off the first bandage....
When i got phenolized the fingernails on my left hand the doc put on a gel against the chemical burn. This gel prevented the bandage from getting sticky on the wounds. It was easy to take them off after 24 hours.

When i got phenolized my thumb, which was the first time of this treatment, he did not use this gel. It was not nice to remove the bandage from the wound.

I found it was helpful to apply bepanthen on the wound and cover it with tape over night for protection. This prevents the scab becoming hard and thick and the tape from sticking on the wound. Bathing the wounds every morning and evening for cleaning was obligatory of course.
Guest 18-Dec-2009 01:53
Josie...some blood is definitely normal. I always left my dressing on for a good 24 hrs. before soaking it off. I also think it's good to leave the bandage off for periods of time to get some air and dry out a little. It really helps. Holly, the shots are uncomfortable but not horrible. I had mine removed about 3 days ago and I feel very bruised where I had the shots. My Dr. used that freeze spray when giving the shots, so it makes them more tolerable.
Josie 17-Dec-2009 15:19
My Son got left toenail removed, all okay for 1st day today throbbing pain and foot feels like its on fire, a some fresh blood showing from his gauze, is this normal or should we take him to Doc?
his doctor told us to soak after 48 hrs but if still bleeding I am afraid once I open gauze it will not stop the blood flow. Any advice?
Holly16-Dec-2009 22:26
I am having a slice taken from my right toe nail tomorrow early in the morning! Not nervous about the operation but really quite nervous about the injections! can anyone reassure me it isnt " the worst pain you will ever feel" like many say?
Guest 16-Dec-2009 19:40
Hi again (see Guest 13/12/09 entry)
I had my right big toe nail removed at about 3-30pm this afternoon in Newmarket Day Hospital Suffolk England). It is now 4 hours later and the big toe is throbbing/painful but as yet I have taken no painkillers. The procedure went well & the x2 podiatrists were good & helpful. I even took photos! (inspired by your gallery photos- my camera batter ran out just after the nail came off-NB I never got any topical anaesthetic before the ring block injections,..anyway during the op I never felt anything & it was quick & I too had phenol used). I have x2 days off work now (then Sat & Sun off too before back to work on Monday-did I say with no sick pay!) & intend sitting at my computer with my foot up. I hope the pain doesn't get worse & goes soon & am looking forward to good healing & no more infected toe!
Best wishes to all & pain & infection free toes & feet to all!
Mel 15-Dec-2009 15:17
Well, had my right big toenail removed with phenol treatment yesterday (about 24 hrs. ago) and I must say...not bad at all! To me, the worst part of the whole procedure is the shots. (Even with freeze spray, still kind of uncomfortable) Unfortunately for me, it takes quite a bit of the numbing medication for me to be numb. This is my 3rd time having nail removery surgery and I have needed a double local both times. The first one never takes completley. After being re-numbed, didn't feel a thing for the remainder of the procedure. As fas as pain goes, I don't think it's too bad today. I did the "3 Ibuprofen every 6 hrs.) thing and it worked pretty good. I haven't even needed it today. Changed the dressing after my shower this morning (leaving it on during the shower helped reduce pain of the water hitting the toe) and it came off easily because it was soaked. Looks worse than it feels at this point. My Dr. gave me this "wound dressing" called Ameri Gel and claims that I should be feeling great in about 1 week...we shall see! Honestly, the worst pain is from the shots!! It feels really bruised where I was numbed. As far as dressing it, Ameri Gel with non-stick gauze pads, then wrapped with roll gauze twice a day. We'll see how good this Ameri Gel stuff works.
Guest 15-Dec-2009 15:05
I didn't take any time off of work when I had my left big toenail removed. It was numb the first day, and I don't have to be on my feet so it worked out. I wore slip on mule shoes for quite a while, they have a nice rounded top that didn't rub on my toe so I didn't have to wear flip flops in December. I only was really in pain one day, and that was after the first follow up visit. It's like a nerve was awakened, it really did hurt after he messed with it. Took some ibuprofen and it settled down. Went to all my follow up visits and had no problems.
Mel 14-Dec-2009 14:33
I'm on my way to the foot dr's this morning, hoping that he will do the removal with phenol on my right big toenail. My toenails are "incurvated" or curl in other words. They don't grow straight across, they hook into the skin (looks like a horseshoe) and it also squeezes on the nail bed causing infection...(which is what I'm dealing with right now). I had "outer edge" nail removal with phenol twice on my leftt foot (Dr. didn't take enough the first time) and it's still gross looking after a year! Hoping to have that one removed next along with the 2nd toenail on my left foot. It grows the same way and is constantly sore after clipping or if I bump it. The procedure is uncomfortable and the healing process for me was kind of long, but I think it will be worth it to not deal with this anymore! I even have a hard time cutting these nails b/c they grow so funny.
Guest 13-Dec-2009 20:37
Hi Lisa
(This is a copy of my comment on the last image showing your toes post surgery/recovery)
Thanks for this walthrough of your toenail removal.
I have an infected right big toenail and it is planned to be taken off under local anaesthetic in 3 days time! (I am not looking forward to it and am planning 3 days off work but will get no sick pay! - a double pain). Might be hobbling over Christmas 09.
It looks from this like you received good treatment at the clinic you were at and that the recovery can be more troublesome than the treatment. Anyway I hope I am as brave as you and I wonder whether I might take my camera (madness?!). I am glad your removals have worked for you as infected nails are definitely painful and troublesome. Perhaps I will post a comment after my operation!
Thanks again for your effort in making your toenail removal a public service! Take care
Chris 07-Dec-2009 00:28
Had my right, great toenail removed on 12/1/09. It is still seeping, where a little bit comes through the gauze every day. It also hurts to walk on it, so now my leg hurts because I've been compensating by walking funny. Anyway... my follow up appt is on 12/8. What can I expect? I'm terrifed that she's going to hurt me!
Guest 02-Dec-2009 05:23
I have had nail fungus on both my big toenails. Used tropical cream prescribed by the podiatrist. Some of the fungus cured but still the nail is having some streaks. Now I have got ingrown toenails because of the fungus. Visited podiatrist last week, and he gave a nail softener to ease the pressure. It is still only a few days. Not much of an improvement. I am thinking of getting both my big toenails removed permanently. So I don't have to worry about fungus or painful ingrown toenails. Any thoughts appreciated
DMOM 01-Dec-2009 01:40
Had my toenail removed 2years ago and it grow back 6 months later,I even drove myself home after wards.but the pain was awful about 2hours later.Ask for pain meds,ty-3s really helped..Im trying to talk myself into having it done again. the right way, by a foot specialest..(not a quick care place)
Stubby 29-Nov-2009 15:52
Three weeks ago i got removed and phenolized the remaining nails on my left hand (index, middle and ring-finger).

Healing is still in progress. I hope it will be completely healed in about 2 weeks because i want to get done my right hand this year.

@Sarah: I would choose the full permant removal. The cosmetical result is very good.
Stubby 29-Nov-2009 15:21
Three weeks ago i got removed and phenolized the remaining nails on my left hand (index, middle and ring-finger).

Healing is still in progress. I hope it will be completely healed in about 2 weeks because i want to get done my right hand this year.

@Sarah: I would choose the full permant removal. The cosmetical result is very good.
Sarah 21-Nov-2009 02:37
I've had ingrown toenails (both big toes) for more than five years. Last year I finally got up the courage to get the nails removed. They healed, and then came back full force. I'm now considering both Partial - Permanent and Permanent removal of the nails. With the first procedure the freezing didn't take. Now I'm not sure what to do....
allpiggiesgne2market 07-Nov-2009 05:31
I had a infection in all of my toenails..i know disgusting...i am a very clean well kept women i was shocked...it's just the shoes i wore
bryguy 06-Nov-2009 12:40
why did you have all of them removed?
allpiggiesgne2market 06-Nov-2009 05:22
I have had all of my toe nails removed.. all ten little piggies...one foot at a time..my left foot just got done and i have some drainage from my big and middle toe the smells awful..i know the is disgusting..my right foot i did not notice a disgusting smell it may have been there.. i was just wondering if that was normal....
Stubby 31-Oct-2009 16:33
@Isis333
6 weeks ago i got removed and phenolized the nail of the thumb and indexfinger on the right hand. The healig time was about 6 weeks.
After 3 weeks there was only a little bit drainage. It seems to depend on the fact how much the phenol is applied. When i got the thumbnail at the left hand removed last year it was also a healingtime of 5 to 6 weeks. The nail at the left small finger did heal in about 4 weeks.

In November i am scheduled to get the remaining fingernails on both hands removed and phenolized.
bryguy 30-Oct-2009 03:06
That is tough man. i am pretty much the same way about mine. how old are you bro?
daniel 29-Oct-2009 03:50
i had been getting ingrown toenails for a while and my foot doctor told me i should have the sides removed and killed so it wouldn't happen again. at that point i wanted to try anything so i got it done and lucky for me i didn't feel a thing. it has been a while now and the middle nail has grown back sadly this has not turned out perfect because my nails are now a brown color witch makes me not want them scene. i have tried to get them back to normal but it hasn't turned out well i have thought about going to see the doctor but i haven't said anything to my parents about because i am hoping to get them to normal my self because i don't want anyone to see them.
Sher 28-Oct-2009 14:35
I am scheduled to have my right great toenail removed tomorrow. The receptionist at the clinic says I don't need to arrange for a driver -- but that sounds dangerous, like being impaired in other ways. I am very nervous about the healing process & the length of time. We are in Wisconsin USA & snow is around the corner. I can't wear flip flops! I also work 6 days a week -- and since my husband is working reduced hours, I can't afford to be off. There is such a range of pain & healing times here -- I wonder what the determining factor is?
IsIs33327-Oct-2009 04:49
I too had three toenails permanently remove October 6, 2009.

I was told by the doctor it would take three weeks to heal, and I am not healed and can not put my foot in a shoe.

As I am typing this, my toes are black and bluish in color. The throbbing is much at times.

I was given instructions to soak my feet in Epsom salt only for four days after surgery and after that just put bandages on my toes. After my next week visit, I told the doctor I had been placing my toes in warm water only. She told me to continue to do so and keep adding the Betadine solution to my toes.

I am beginning tot think a step is missing somewhere in this treatment. I go back to the doctor October 29.

Oh and get this. Before the surgery, the surgeon who did the evaluation that determined I needed my toe nails removed told me I could drive after the surgery. WHAT? It is a good thing I used other transportation to go get the surgery vice drive a three hour round trip.

I am real hesitant getting the other four toes done.

I am 60 years old and I am not in a relationship with anyone who is freaky about sucking on some toes. LOL. I think I can live the rest of my life out with Mix matched toes. LOL.

Thank you all for sharing your stories, horror and not horror.

Isis
email address: goddess_isis_loving@yahoo.com
VALERIE BAXTER 25-Oct-2009 23:23
I had both my big toenails removed 6 weeks ago, i have been in constant pain, have had an infection from day 1, treated with 2 courses of antibiotics, which haven't cleared the infection, i'm still unable to wear any shoes, drive my car, or walk any distance, if i had been told of these after effects, i would NEVER of had it done, so think very carefully before you consider this procedure. Any helpfull advice from anyone would be much appreciated.
maggie 18-Oct-2009 00:09
Dr. Nadal in Toronto uses a sort of topical anasthesia first, feels like an elastic smacking your foot, not bad. After that he uses the needles and they do not hurt. Don't know why all foot doctors don't do this. After having my ingrown toenails fixed, there was a slight bruising effect where the topical numbing was used - not bad either.
Linda B. 01-Oct-2009 06:47
I have been peeling my toenails off but they continue to grow back - If they are already off can I stop them from growing myself
Andrea 22-Sep-2009 12:59
Hello people. Making another post from 13th August. Had both my big toe nails removed, permanently, on 5th August and I am still seeing a nurse twice a week to have them bandaged, they just won't heal and are still bleeding, but only slightly. This seems to be never ending! Happy Days!
Dee 21-Sep-2009 17:58
Bobbi Jo - First of all, get some non-stick sterile 2x2 pads and some paper tape to use to bandage your toe. I had both great toenails permanently removed June 4th of this year and it took nearly three months for total healing. My doc said to soak twice a day with 1 tsp table salt to 2 cups warm water, apply small amount of neosporin and keep it covered till there was no seeping. I used the non-stick sterile 2x2's held on with paper tape for over two months - he said it was better to heal from the inside out rather than get a scab on the outside. Whatever - the process took a long time, but the results are fantastic. You have to look very closely to tell that there is no nail there - very smooth and light pink!
Phyllis Massey 19-Sep-2009 11:28
HI, I am Phyllis I had my left toenail and bed of nail removed yesterday, I kept it elevated all that day which helped with the pain (Minimal pain) but at times throbbing. I had to get up and walk..... Today the instruckions are to soak it in 1 gallon water to 1/2 cup white vinegar, it is soaking right now, I expected it to be worse or more painful, it looks gross but I can tolerate it so far., ok so the timer just went off 20 minutes, now I apply antibotic and a bandaid. I thought I would have to have my husband do this but he is still sleeping.........will talk more later.
bobbie_jo18-Sep-2009 03:00
Hello, thanks for all of the info, it sure helps. I need some help...please! I'm 42 and I had my right big toe nail permanently removed July 20th, 2009, due to an ecema problem. It's been about a month. The shots hurt, but the first two weeks were o.k., my Doctor gave me Lortabs and I took them as needed. I got really good at the soaking and bandaging!! Pretty good for someone who hates feet and almost passed out when my husband took the first bandage off. I'm tough with everything but this toe.
When I went for my 2 week check up, I told my Doctor that I thought that it looked infected and it was very sore. She said no and took out some iodine and a q-tip and started scrubbing the top of my toe. It hurt so bad that I almost pushed her away, but I couldn't because I was ready to pass out. She said that is was a scab and that for the next 2 weeks I should use iodine and a q-tip to SCRUB my toe each day and then apply a band-aid (cut longwise in half) only to cover the part that had not scabbed. well a few hours later after she did the my toe felt better but it was throbbing. (Thank goodness I didn't take all of those Lortab 5's!) Anyway, I've tried to scrub it these 2 weeks but it hurts so bad. The problem is that my Doctor (Note: she's great-small town and everyone trusts her) had a family emergency on the day of my appt. So now my toe is extremely sore on the top part like it was before. And my toe sticks to the band-aid. I hope that I have explained this good and sorry that it took so long. I have been following this post since I had it removed. Has any one else had these instructions given to them like I have? I have a 1/4 inch dip in the middle of the toe now. I am going to call in the a.m., but sometimes it's just good to have advice from someone that's been there and not just performed the procedure! God bless ya'll and thanks in advance.
bobbie_jo18-Sep-2009 02:54
Hello, thanks for all of the info, it sure helps. I need some help...please! I'm 42 and I had my right big toe nail permanently removed July 20th, 2009, due to an ecema problem. It's been about a month. The shots hurt, but the first two weeks were o.k., my Doctor gave me Lortabs and I took them as needed. I got really good at the soaking and bandaging!! Pretty good for someone who hates feet and almost passed out when my husband took the first bandage off. I'm tough with everything but this toe.
When I went for my 2 week check up, I told my Doctor that I thought that it looked infected and it was very sore. She said no and took out some iodine and a q-tip and started scrubbing the top of my toe. It hurt so bad that I almost pushed her away, but I couldn't because I was ready to pass out. She said that is was a scab and that for the next 2 weeks I should use iodine and a q-tip to SCRUB my toe each day and then apply a band-aid (cut longwise in half) only to cover the part that had not scabbed. well a few hours later after she did the my toe felt better but it was throbbing. (Thank goodness I didn't take all of those Lortab 5's!) Anyway, I've tried to scrub it these 2 weeks but it hurts so bad. The problem is that my Doctor (Note: she's great-small town and everyone trusts her) had a family emergency on the day of my appt. So now my toe is extremely sore on the top part like it was before. And my toe sticks to the band-aid. I hope that I have explained this good and sorry that it took so long. I have been following this post since I had it removed. Has any one else had these instructions given to them like I have? I have a 1/4 inch dip in the middle of the toe now. I am going to call in the a.m., but sometimes it's just good to have advice from someone that's been there and not just performed the procedure! God bless ya'll and thanks in advance.
bobbie_jo18-Sep-2009 02:40
Hello, thanks for all of the info, it sure helps. I need some help...please! I'm 42 and I had my right big toe nail permanently removed July 20th, 2009, due to an ecema problem. It's been about a month. The shots hurt, but the first two weeks were o.k., my Doctor gave me Lortabs and I took them as needed. I got really good at the soaking and bandaging!! Pretty good for someone who hates feet and almost passed out when my husband took the first bandage off. I'm tough with everything but this toe.
When I went for my 2 week check up, I told my Doctor that I thought that it looked infected and it was very sore. She said no and took out some iodine and a q-tip and started scrubbing the top of my toe. It hurt so bad that I almost pushed her away, but I couldn't because I was ready to pass out. She said that is was a scab and that for the next 2 weeks I should use iodine and a q-tip to SCRUB my toe each day and then apply a band-aid (cut longwise in half) only to cover the part that had not scabbed. well a few hours later after she did the my toe felt better but it was throbbing. (Thank goodness I didn't take all of those Lortab 5's!) Anyway, I've tried to scrub it these 2 weeks but it hurts so bad. The problem is that my Doctor (Note: she's great-small town and everyone trusts her) had a family emergency on the day of my appt. So now my toe is extremely sore on the top part like it was before. And my toe sticks to the band-aid. I hope that I have explained this good and sorry that it took so long. I have been following this post since I had it removed. Has any one else had these instructions given to them like I have? I have a 1/4 inch dip in the middle of the toe now. I am going to call in the a.m., but sometimes it's just good to have advice from someone that's been there and not just performed the procedure! God bless ya'll and thanks in advance.
real_army_wife 17-Sep-2009 16:37
Well, trying to sleep last night was awful. I did find a few things to make it stop burning/throbbing. First, I put an ice pack on the foot, right below the toe. Second, on top of the 2 percocet, I took an 800 mg ibuprofen. Today it is feeling a lot better although still hurts some. Good luck everyone!
real_army_wife 17-Sep-2009 14:18
Well, trying to sleep last night was awful. I did find a few things to make it stop burning/throbbing. First, I put an ice pack on the foot, right below the toe. Second, on top of the 2 percocet, I took an 800 mg ibuprofen. Today it is feeling a lot better although still hurts some. Good luck everyone!
real_army_wife 17-Sep-2009 14:14
I am now 5 hours post grand toenail removal. Last year I had the sides removed and "killed" because of an ingrown nail. It ended up growing back and becoming infected. I also had a bad fungal infection causing the nail to curl. Today I went in for removal. The shots hurt like heck but this time asked the Dr. for more time for them to kick in since last time felt pain through the procedure. He did and it still wasn't fully numb. He administered 2 more and that did the job! All of the sudden I felt like a rubber band was around my toe and he said it was a towel draped on my foot. Then I felt him pulling on my leg, although it was actually him cutting down the middle and pulling the nail out. I have to say that it did not hurt. I think mentally I was doing more damage then physically. I elected to not have the nail destroyed, just removed. He even let my husband take it home! HA!

Here comes the bad part. The numbing meds have not fully worn off (have at least 3 more hours) and I have taken 2 percocet that he prescribed. My toe is THROBBING and feels like it's on FIRE! Needless to say, I needed this done. The procedure wasn't bad except for the shots that hurt like the devil! Make sure your Doc allows them to kick in. The recovery from what I can tell this early is going to be torture! I am sure it is temporary so don't let this scare you. Also, request pain meds. You'll need them!
real_army_wife 17-Sep-2009 01:54
I am now 5 hours post grand toenail removal. Last year I had the sides removed and "killed" because of an ingrown nail. It ended up growing back and becoming infected. I also had a bad fungal infection causing the nail to curl. Today I went in for removal. The shots hurt like heck but this time asked the Dr. for more time for them to kick in since last time felt pain through the procedure. He did and it still wasn't fully numb. He administered 2 more and that did the job! All of the sudden I felt like a rubber band was around my toe and he said it was a towel draped on my foot. Then I felt him pulling on my leg, although it was actually him cutting down the middle and pulling the nail out. I have to say that it did not hurt. I think mentally I was doing more damage then physically. I elected to not have the nail destroyed, just removed. He even let my husband take it home! HA!

Here comes the bad part. The numbing meds have not fully worn off (have at least 3 more hours) and I have taken 2 percocet that he prescribed. My toe is THROBBING and feels like it's on FIRE! Needless to say, I needed this done. The procedure wasn't bad except for the shots that hurt like the devil! Make sure your Doc allows them to kick in. The recovery from what I can tell this early is going to be torture! I am sure it is temporary so don't let this scare you. Also, request pain meds. You'll need them!
Stubby 15-Sep-2009 22:04
@zorbee
the forming of callus can be prevented by applying the phenol not only on the nailroot but also on the wole nailbed.
I got removed my left thumbnail and the nail of my little left finger with phenol. The nailbed is very smooth after healing. No touch sensibility above the normal sensibility of the fingertips. The cosmetical result is fantastic.
At Friday i get my right thumbnail done with phenol.
zorbee 15-Sep-2009 14:30
I've had one toenail removed - the big toe on my right foot. Hurt like crazy, but procedure and healing went well. After a couple years I was talked into getting a tattoo. That was in March. I have had to go back three more times to "touch up" the tatt because of the callus build up that keeps forming. I'm thinking of treating the callus to the point of tender skin underneath and trying again. Does callus build up ever stop? The tattoo looks super great for about a month...
Kimberly 13-Sep-2009 18:55
just noticed that i didn't complete my thought.


anyway... you can buy everything you need for under 100 dollars AND have enough stuff leftover to do all of your toenails and fingernails and those of your significant other. lol
Kimberly 13-Sep-2009 18:54
just got my bill in the mail for my permanent toenail removal procedue i had way back in may.

total damage: $569!!!! holy crap.


i did some looking online and you can buy xylocaine, syringes, and phenol including the ridiculous cost of shipping (must pay extra because of the 'hazardous material' factor). if i ever have another toenail problem, i am going to do it myself.
bryguy 04-Sep-2009 02:29
eric how old are you and why did you have yours done?
Dee 03-Sep-2009 19:07
Jamie - you should soak your foot in salt water (1 tsp per 2 cups warm water) 2x/day for about 15 minutes each time. Keep it clean, apply neosporin and keep a non-stick sterile bandage on it.
Keep bandage on while showering, take bandage off after, soak then if possible . After make sure it is dry, apply medicine and fresh bandage. If you think it is infected - go to the health clinic (this is the "Mom" kicking in gear!)
Good Luck.............
Good Luck.....
Jocelyn 02-Sep-2009 15:02
Sorry, I meant to say left toenail, not left toe LOL.
Jocelyn 02-Sep-2009 15:00
I'm having my left big toe removed in two weeks. It is currently very painful and a quarter of the nail has already come off. I'm not worried about pain during the procedure. I'm sure the doctor will numb it properly. I'm afraid of the pain afterwards. Should I ask the doctor for painkillers? I have a seven year old and need to be able to keep up with her without pain.
Jamie 01-Sep-2009 18:28
guys. i dropped a 45 pound weight on my foot back in november. after months of complications, i finally had the toenail taken off about three weeks ago. it still hurts really really bad and i have to soak it twice a day. I have yet to wear shoes. Also, I can't bend my toe and it leaks puss. I just moved to college and my doctor is back home. I'm getting kind of scared. It really hurts and looks nasty
Guest 26-Aug-2009 18:07
I had my big toe nail removed 7 days ago for a biopsy of a stripe on the toe nail bed. Which the results came back benign. Now I'm dealing with the healing process. I noticed that when I but a band-aid on the toe and cannot elevate my feet that a yellowish pink pus filled blister forms right where the biopsy was extracted. If I take the band aid off and let if air dry and elevate for an hour the blister deflates and a scab forms. This seems to by a cycle that keep happening when I put a bandage on it and not elevate. Does this sound like an infection?
eric 23-Aug-2009 18:42
I had both of my big toenails permenantly removed at the same time. I was able to wear shoes the next day and was back at work 3 days later wearing work boots. The pain was very minimal within a couple of days. It has been 6 weeks now and I am almost completly healed. I would reccomend this procedure to anyone needing it with just one word of caution. See a podiatrist!!!! they are foot experts and do a great jjob
Lisa 18-Aug-2009 21:46
Dee--
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. I really appreciate it. I am going to take your advice and get the nonstick sterile pads and try the salt water soak. I am glad to hear yours are healing and doing well. I can't wait for my end result. It will be so wonderful to be rid of that awful nail. No more band-aids for this girl once it totally heals! Thanks again and take care :)
Dee 18-Aug-2009 15:05
Lisa,
First of all, go get some NONSTICK 2x2 sterile pads and secure it with paper tape. Yes, the gunky stuff will continue. It will take the 2 months to totally heal - had both my big toenails permanently removed June 2 and they are just now to the point where I don't wear bandages. The pain is due to the healing process of the nerve endings. I didn't have as much pain as you, but it will go away. Take extra strength Tylenol or call your doc for a prescription. My doc had me soak 15 minutes 2x/day in salt water (1 tsp table salt to 2 cups warm water). This helped heal and relieved the pain. I think this really assisted the very slow process. I also had a script for genomycin (sp??) to prevent infection. I am glad my thick, fungus infested nails are gone - my toes are smooth, pink and you really have to look closely to notice the nails are gone. I put light pink nailpolish on the remaining 8 nails and off I go! Good Luck, be patient and make your doctor talk to you about the post-op process.
Lisa 18-Aug-2009 12:04
Hi-- I am 29 years old. I had my right big toenail permanently removed a week ago tomorrow. The nail was always awful-looking and thick all my life. It would fall off atleast once a year. My toe was also extremely sensitive. I never left the house without a band-aid on it. I finally made an appt with a podiatrist and honestly thought he would take one look at it and give me a presciption for an antifungal. However as soon as he looked at it, he said that I was missing 3/4 of my nail bed. I did have an infection in the nail and he said he could clear that up but even so once it grew back it would never attach properly. I opted to have it removed permanently because of this. I don't regret it at all, because believe me going nearly thirty years with something that made you totally self conscious and being able to do something about it was great regardless of the healing process. But it still hurts terribly. He didn't really give me any care instructions besides neosporin and keeping it wrapped. He told me it would get worse before it would get better and that I would think that it was infected but that is just the healing process. He also said it would take 2 months to heal completely. It throbs constantly except when I can prop it up but I can't at work. It stings, burns, aches. At times, it feels almost like dry socket when you have had a tooth extracted...that type of pain. And I have a pretty good tolerance for pain. It hasn't helped that it has been stepped on a couple times. Last night was the worse when i had it propped up on the couch and someone sat on it. it bled, and the seeping is even worse now. It seeps alot and sticks to the band-aid and gauze. It like a yellowish-orange color. He did mention that it would do that. It hurts when I shower, when I put the neosporin on it, when I wrap it, and unwrap it. It seriously is constant. I can barely bend my toe at all. Has anyone had a similar experience so that I can figure out when I will get some relief. I feel like I am being a big baby but I am not all exaggerating the pain of it. I don't go back for a follow-up until next week.
Dee 17-Aug-2009 19:23
Emmy - sorry about your accident, ouch! I would think the thing to do would be keep it bandaged (use non-stick 2x2 pads with paper tape to hold in place) and apply Neosporin till it starts to heal. You don't want to get infection! Perhaps leaving it uncovered at night - but not when you are outside for awhile. Just my opinion - that's what I would tell my daughter to do!
Emmy 15-Aug-2009 16:23
Hi there. I have found this page very helpful and also scary. I am currently working in greece for the summer. Wednesday night (3 days ago) a boy, by accident, kicked my toe nail hard and it lifted up. There was blood everywhere. My friend said i needed to go to the medical centre immediately. The greek doctor gave two injections and removed my nail. Because the doctor was greek he couldnt explain to me any form of after care. So I would appreciate any advice you can give me. My mum thinks i should keep it bandaged up to prevent infection but i think i need to let the air get to it. I was hoping to start work again next friday, which will be around 8 days post op. do u think this is possible?
thank you
Angie 14-Aug-2009 14:20
In my case, it does look strange to just paint the toe. I guess it depends on what it looks like when it completely heals. I don't know of any special adhesive besides nail glue. I have used crazy glue, and nail glue, it doesn't stay on. I had heard that the Salon can make an acrylic specially for your toe, that will stay on. I haven't checked into this. I know anything I do at home myself just doesn't work. I cant afford a salon visit every week all spring/summer/fall. It may not be that much, I guess I should just check into it and see. IF anyone has any more info for me, prices, home things that work, it'd be great.
Janira 13-Aug-2009 18:39
Hi i had received permanent toenail removal, and didn't really go through bad pain. Just listen to what the doctor tells you to do and you should be fine. I was instructed after the procedure to elevate my foot ASAP and put ice on the foot not the toe, just right on top near the toes 30 minutes and 30 minutes off three times that same day to prevent swelling. I had asked for pain killers and took right away before the pain comes. This worked wonders according to what other people had said they went through. Thank You Jesus. I still have ways to go but i know it will be alright. God Bless.
Stephanie 13-Aug-2009 16:49
Cheryl, Ooops! That statement about pain was meant for Andrea and the "guest" writer was me.
Guest 13-Aug-2009 16:47
Cheryl, I wasn't trying to be brave. As I said, the first one was a complete surprise to me. I never imagined it would rip out like that. With the second one I figured "I might as well". I still have some problems though and really want to get them professionally done. I guess I have a high tolerance for pain so all I can say is that yours will go away. I'm probably not a good one to say when though. I'm happy you're glad you got it done. Best Wishes to you for a speedy recovery!
Andrea 13-Aug-2009 15:00
Hi, I had both my toenails removed on the 5th Aug and they are still hurting like mad!! When does the pain go away that's what I would like to know. Best thing I ever had done though!
Cheryl 11-Aug-2009 15:42
Stephanie, woe you are brave, I can hardly look when I go back to the doctor and he cleans up the scabs from the surgery.
Cheryl 11-Aug-2009 15:38
Hey bryguy I have every intention of showing my toes, I have some really nice open toe shoes. I'm just waiting for the purple around my toe to go away. The bed where toenail was at looks pretty good but the discolored pigmentation looks ugly
Stephanie 04-Aug-2009 11:17
Thanks Dee! I appreciate you getting back to me. I'm seriously considering having both big toes done after my daughter's wedding on Sept 5th. I don't want to do it before then. I bought real pretty shoes I want to be able to wear. But after that I think I may do it since I won't have to miss any work. Thanks for letting me know. I hope all continues to go well for you.
bryguy 02-Aug-2009 19:38
do you guys show off your toes now?
Dee 31-Jul-2009 14:56
Stephanie, You should not have to miss any work after having your toenail(s) removed. I both big toenail removed on a Thursday at 4:00pm and went back to work Friday morning. (scroll down to read my entries in this forum)
Good luck - you will be glad you had them taken care of.
Gavin 31-Jul-2009 11:44
Thanks for the reply Guest.

So you thin the Podiatris will just remove the part of the nail thats ingrown, initially?

I would certainly prefer that to full removement of the nail.
Katharine 31-Jul-2009 05:05
Wow. I was at my 1st visit to the foot doctor today ~ decided that maybe removing the baby toe nail would be the first step to solving my foot pain...this is great to see how involved the process is ~ we planned it for this Monday ~ so, at least I am mentally prepared. Thanks for the encouragement!
Guest 31-Jul-2009 04:00
Gavin, I was 13 when mine were removed, now i am 34.. the only reason to remove permanently is if it is chronic. I was chronic and it finally came down to the doctor pushing my parents to do it as I was developing very bad infection that would shoot up my leg. I would not get it done if it is the first time. I know a friend that had it for the first time and her doc removed have the nail wher it was affected.
Stephanie 30-Jul-2009 18:01
Hey everyone! Ya'll may not believe this but I swear it's true. I took off my own toenails. The first one was an accident but the second one wasn't. I've always had badly ingrown toenails on both my big toes. I had the sides cut out and acid or whatever they use to stop the regrowth done about 20 years ago but it didn't work. I still continued to have to cut and pull the sides out of each big toe every couple of weeks. I was doing my usual routine about a year ago and after I had cut all the way down one side and had started pulling with the tweezers the nail started coming off from under the cuticle (the nail bed, I gues). It hurt like crazy but after having 3 children naturally (without any pain meds) it wasn't that bad. Actually I remember the shots hurting really badly when I had the ingrown sides removed. Anway, after I pulled the first one off unexpectedly I went ahead and purposely took off the other one. My only problem is that after it heals I'm left with a really hard "something" that kind of looks like a nail but a nail has never grown out from the nail bed since I ripped them out. I don't really know where it comes from. It's very hard and I have to keep filing them. Yes, I put nail polish on them and it looks much better than without. My husband even told me I have "freckin ugly toenails" when I don't put on the nail polish. Now, all that wouldn't be too bad except that from time to time I still get ingrown nails! Where are they coming from? I wish I could get rid of them. I want to have the surgery - done by a doctor this time - but I can't afford to miss work. You know, no insurance and if I don't work I don't get paid. Any helpful comments would be appreciated.
Gavin 30-Jul-2009 12:28
Hey guys,

I've got an infection on my left big toe, caused by an ingrown toenail. Toe is currently extremely painful, swollen and red, as you would imagine. Nail has gown kind of a dark colour with lighter stripes, which I assume is the infection under the nail. Taking Flucloxacillin antibiotic four times a day to try and clear up the infection. GP says I will need to see a podiatrist, which I assume will mean the nail will have to be removed. Obviously I would rather not have this done, so do you guys think the nail may fall off on its own once the infection is cleared up? I read that sometimes nails can come away themselves after infection.

Cheers

Gavin
Dee 29-Jul-2009 16:27
Greetings all toe people!
August 2 will mark 8 weeks since the permanent removal of the nails from both my big toes. Today I am at work with open toed shoes and , for the first time since my procedure, no bandaids or gauze cover over the affected sites. The scabs fell off last night and the areas where the nails had been are completely healed, pink, smooth and really quite normal looking; except for no nail. I am truely amazed! Long process, but the results are worth it. I believe if I wear light pink nail polish on the remaining 8 toenails it will be quite acceptable and not unattractive at all. My best to all of you - this forum has been wonderful; nice to know you aren't going through this all alone! Advice - follow your doctor's orders, soak as directed, keep the areas scrupulously clean, covered until there is no drainage and be patient!
Jeana 26-Jul-2009 00:00
Okay...here it is almost 8 weeks since I had my left big toenail removed and I finally could wear a roomy tennis shoe for walking. The shoe is boxy enough in the toe area that it didn't really fit snug - and I could tolerate a sock over the bandaid and still tender toe. Some scabs finally came off with a little neosporin and scrapping and that helped......the scabs were getting hard and just pushed into my toe with enough pressure to cause discomfort. The whitish area at the end of my toe (where the nail tip used to be) was indeed a different kind of skin tissue that was under the old nail. It looked different than regular skin and was actually quite hard after years of bumping against the former toenail. The indented area is very pronounced and I can see where someone might think there is still a nail there! When it is healed I will paint it along with my real toenails. Still tender.......but seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. With my old bruised, sore and fungus ridden nail I couldn't wear tight dress shoes or boots so now I'm hoping I'll toughen up and finally have some tolerance for nicer dress shoes. Thanks everyone! Take heart. It will get better.
bryguy 24-Jul-2009 22:54
never really feel comfortable being barefoot.. and as a guy the fake nails are geared towards the women so i havent tried them.
Guest 24-Jul-2009 16:48
Thank You for the response JB. I'm going to try it, I hate how they are still so watery after 6 weeks, I just wish they would dry up.

I still need to know about the black and blue purple around them Before this the skin around the toe was nice.
Janny 24-Jul-2009 04:32
I have a quick question. I got both my big toe nails removed when I was 13 due to chronic in-grown nails. Let's just say it was not my personal choice, but parents thought it best. In any case, does anyone put on fake nails and if so what do you use? I used to use crazy glue or nail glue, but after a few days, i always blister and have to wait for the heeling process. I finally started using fake nails after 15yrs with this.. and I can not even have it one all the time.
JB 24-Jul-2009 04:29
Re: Donna

I had 2 toe nails off and used dreft. It works well. It does not dry out your toes like soap or espon salt.
Janny 24-Jul-2009 04:22
I have a quick question. I got both my big toe nails removed when I was 13 due to chronic in-grown nails. Let's just say it was not my personal choice, but parents thought it best. In any case, does anyone put on fake nails and if so what do you use? I used to use crazy glue or nail glue, but after a few days, i always blister and have to wait for the heeling process. I finally started using fake nails after 15yrs with this.. and I can not even have it one all the time.
Donna 23-Jul-2009 23:44
I love this board

Went to my doctor yesterday he was disappointed after 6 weeks it wasn't drier. He dug around Yikes to pull of scab etc. But most of all I still get that shooting pain when I move my foot I'm unhappy and willl not get the other toe done.

Plus I have the purple around it as mentioned by someone else. I do like how flat it looks compared to the ugly humped one.
Does dreft really work? isn't that a detergent for gentle washing of clothes. Ill stick to epsom salt.
Cheryl 23-Jul-2009 23:14
Mary,
I sympathize, I have seeping and a big purple toe, doctor said even though I had open toe shoes on, I traumatized them. Please tell me will the purple go away? The toe doesn't look that bad but the purple black on the skin surrounding it does.
Help I hate hoow the skin looks now.
Cheryl 23-Jul-2009 22:57
Can't you just go to a salon and have them attach one? They can make it or lay it on with their special glue. Does painting the toenail look strange? I hope not. Can someone answer this?
It's been 6 weeks and mine is still yucky and soft.
bryguy 23-Jul-2009 02:57
dont they make a special adhesive that will stick to the skin?
Angie 20-Jul-2009 21:22
I had my big toenail removed just over 7 years ago. I cannot get a fake toenail to adhere and stay on. I love my sandals and flip flops, is there any tricks or tips to get it to stick? I have even tried regular super glue.
Angie 20-Jul-2009 21:22
I had my big toenail removed just over 7 years ago. I cannot get a fake toenail to adhere and stay on. I love my sandals and flip flops, is there any tricks or tips to get it to stick? I have even tried regular super glue.
bryguy 18-Jul-2009 06:20
that is nice that you are able to go barefoot now and wear flips.. i have not been able to do that and feel comfortable in my barefeet.
Donna 18-Jul-2009 00:33
Oh, I forgot to add, I'm using betadine to try to dry it up. I hope it hurries because I want to put polish on.
Donna 18-Jul-2009 00:29
Hi, I hd toenail removal right two three weeks ago, it's still soft and yucky, has a tingleing pain, I'm hoping this will go away soon. I like the way it looks except since I didn't put my feet up the skin on my toe is purple looking real dark. does anyone know if this will go away?
Also after it hardens can I paint it, just wanted to know before I go back to my doctor in a month.
I'm afraid of fake toenail because I may get an infection.
Would appreciate a response
DMR
Donna 18-Jul-2009 00:29
Hi, I hd toenail removal right two three weeks ago, it's still soft and yucky, has a tingleing pain, I'm hoping this will go away soon. I like the way it looks except since I didn't put my feet up the skin on my toe is purple looking real dark. does anyone know if this will go away?
Also after it hardens can I paint it, just wanted to know before I go back to my doctor in a month.
I'm afraid of fake toenail because I may get an infection.
Would appreciate a response
DMR
paulie 17-Jul-2009 15:38
I had both big toenails removed permanently in June 2008. The pix and procedure is exactly as described. As with any "cutting into skin" procedure, this was not pleasant, however, totally worth the pain for having to hide my feet in shoes my whole life. It's been about a year now and I have the outline, or indentation, of what used to be the nail in my toes. I would imagine 46 years of growth will take quite a bit of time before the toe will have a normal skin top. I'm loving it though, I walk in flip flops or barefoot without a second thought now. Ya, they don't look normal but they look a HELL of a lot better than my yellow, fungus ridden slabs of nail I used to have. The best part is, no more cutting, grinding, sanding, digging and grooming big toe nails. I'm so freak'n happy! Thanks for the great post, I viewed this before my surgery last year and knew exactly what to expect.
paulie 17-Jul-2009 15:28
I had both big toenails removed permanently in June 2008. The pix and procedure is exactly as described. As with any "cutting into skin" procedure, this was not pleasant, however, totally worth the pain for having to hide my feet in shoes my whole life. It's been about a year now and I have the outline, or indentation, of what used to be the nail in my toes. I would imagine 46 years of growth will take quite a bit of time before the toe will have a normal skin top. I'm loving it though, I walk in flip flops or barefoot without a second thought now. Ya, they don't look normal but they look a HELL of a lot better than my yellow, fungus ridden slabs of nail I used to have. The best part is, no more cutting, grinding, sanding, digging and grooming big toe nails. I'm so freak'n happy! Thanks for the great post, I viewed this before my surgery last year and knew exactly what to expect.
mary 14-Jul-2009 15:14
If you've got a mushroom, one of those bad toes, and the really exciting bloke I meet at a party once, what have these things got in common.
FUNGII ( FUNGUY)
Mary's feeling a bit better today, or the pain killers are working.
bryguy 13-Jul-2009 17:51
i dont wear open toes... or go barefoot.. i have seen other guys doing it but for me i dont. I have looked into fake toenails but they are mostly geared for women.
Guest 13-Jul-2009 16:01
Hi Tanya,
Thanks for sharing your story. It certainly looks like you've helped a great number of people. I have a question of my own. I also had both big toenails removed, but I'm still a bit shy of wearing sandals or open-toed dress shoes. How do you deal with that?
Tanya 13-Jul-2009 06:01
Hi Guest, you will be able to walk without crutches, and your toes will be numb, so you wont be able to drive, hope the op goes well.
Guest 12-Jul-2009 20:27
I am getting both of my big toenails off tomorrow due to ingrown toenails for about a year. Will I be able to walk straight out of hospital or need support such as crutches.
Tanya 12-Jul-2009 07:16
Bryguy, plasters are what I think lots of you on here call Bandaids, I think plaster is the uk name!
bryguy 11-Jul-2009 17:25
what are plasters?
bryguy 11-Jul-2009 17:24
Hey J man.. why did you have yours removed?
Wendi 10-Jul-2009 02:02
THANKS DEE!! I was never told about the other things to numb the skin before they do the shot. I will ask about that.
Dee 09-Jul-2009 17:49
Wendi, I was just like you - terrified of the numbing more than the procedure. Well, my Podiatrist numbed the base of my toes with some kind of spray and put some type of liquid on the skin, waited a bit and gave me three injection per toe and I did not experience any pain. There was only a slight twinge, but nothing like I had expected. Get your appointment and insist your doc prepare your foot so that you don't feel the injections. Good Luck!
Wendi 09-Jul-2009 03:34
I have an ingrown toenail on my big toe. It is killing me! I also have that fungus disease in all my toenails except three. I hate my toenails and want them removed so badly, but I am extremely scared of getting shots in my toes. I am so scared of it that I actually get a rapid heart beat and feel sick just thinking about getting it done. Anyone got any advice for me at all? I just don't see why the doctor can not just knock me out and remove all my toenails at once.
J 08-Jul-2009 01:18
oops i mean my toe dried up 1 week ago. typing error
J 08-Jul-2009 01:16
Hey i had both my toenails permanently removed about 3 weeks ago...dr said i can go out with plasters on. my toes dried up about 2 weeks ago....just waiting for full recovery...

can i have advice? when can i run again? cause i am sports guy. dr said in 2 weeks time.
Dee 07-Jul-2009 16:48
Tanya
Yes I have had the "shock" sensation in my big toes. It lasted off and on for several days, but now it is gone completely. I think it had to do with the nerves and the burning process of the nailbed (ick!). I am sincerely hoping it does not return as it was rather bothersome. My procedure was just over a month ago - right toe is nearly all soft-scabbed over and the left one is about 1/4 of the way soft-scabbed and more tender than the right one. They both have some straw-colored seepage but not much pain at all. My doc suggests I wear gauze covering all the time and continue the soaking with 1 tsp. salt to 2 cups water twice a day. I know that if the toes were uncovered they would heal faster, but doc says that he wants them to heal slowly and this is the way to do it. So, I may be in flip-flops till fall or till the left toe catches up to the right! ( I live in the US in Ohio)
tanya 07-Jul-2009 06:29
I am now on my 4th week since having both my toe nails taken off, saw Dr yesterday, who advises they are healing well and that the yellow pus, is in fact norma and a result of the acid put on to stop the toe nail regrowth, toes are still quite sore, and I am getting what is like electric shock sensations in both toes, does anyone else get this? I am trying to dry them out as best as possible and have been told not to wear plasters, but dressing. I was also told that i was using too much salt in the water and this can have a burning effect! I do also find that in England the advice post op seems to be quite different , I am not allowed to get my feet wet in shower or bath and have lovely plastic boots with rubber ring seals to wear!
Mary 04-Jul-2009 16:42
DIane, you really have my sympathy. Today is the 16th day after having mine done, an I will definitely NOT be having the others done now, no matter how much they hurt. Did any of you other peoples have big purple toes, that stay purple for ages. Mine feels like bone infection which I've had before. Does any body know any jokes or any thing like that to do with toes, I want to make light of the pain, but can't find anything to laugh about. The dreft you speak of, did people use this for washing clothes, where could I get hold of this. ( I live in England)
diane 04-Jul-2009 15:54
hello, has anyone ever had a piece of nail come back? I am having a heck of a time, I had my toenail permanently removed in November and now have a tiny piece of nail growing in and it is infected, ended up going to emerg and got antibiotics and they told me that I should be going back to see the surgeon.....ugh
bryguy 03-Jul-2009 18:54
had not heard of implants. but just false toenails. jt are you a male or female?
PATTY 03-Jul-2009 00:55
Guest: I had my left big toenail removed several years ago because of an badly infected ingrown toenail. The freezing didn`t take and when he pulled the nail out I yelled so hard and the idiot surgen laughed. Now I have this clump of nail. But hey I am a female and very self conscious. Female vanity lol. I buy natural nails with glue at Walmart or Shoppers for $10.00. I use only the big toenails. The ones with tabs at the end are better because you don`t stick your fingers. I use a clear polish on all my nails and then a pretty medium pink polish. They look good. I take the fake nail off in about a week, soak my feet, trim my nails and then re-apply my fake nail. I like to wear open shoes and flip flops. Hope this helps someone out there. And the ones that just got their nails removed, I`ve been there done that and I know what nail pain is. You won`t regret getting a painful nail removed. Hang in their.
JB 02-Jul-2009 04:44
RE: Mary

I never had head aches with my 2 toes. My 1st toe hurt about a week after...kind of a stinging type feeling but it was infected so I got some pills. But it should not hurt after the 1st couple days.

I just let the air dry it out. I would not put a bandade or non stick pad on it for around 10-15 minutes after I soaked it. I never really liked touching the wound with a towel.
JB 02-Jul-2009 04:40
Sorry, I posted the last one.

Good luck with those feet.
I'd be happy to answer anyones questions.
Guest 02-Jul-2009 04:39
Re: Dee
I just poured a little dreft in..maybe a couple big tablespoons...thats about it.
I would also suggest if your at home and not going anye=where to leave the bandage off. Trust me. It will heal alot faster. Just put a pad or band ade on it if you leave the house.

Re: Tanyna
I had an infection in my 1st toe as well. Basically if there is a shooting pain in it at all......well its probably infected. Take some pills. It should not hurt after the 1st couple days. Just feel uncomfortable.
Mary 29-Jun-2009 21:12
I had my two big toenails removed 12 days ago, the first week no pain. Now,AAGHH. I have M/S so I take loads of pain killers, but has anyone else suffered with bad headaches. The worse my toes get, the worse my head is. Did anyone else use a hair dryer to dry there toes after washing. My carer does and I don't know weather it's making them worse. Any advise or comments gratefully recieved. Mary
jt 29-Jun-2009 16:33
Had my 2 big toenails remove at birth...31 years later looking for procedure to have implants. Does anyone have any info on this at all?
jt 29-Jun-2009 16:17
Had my 2 big toenails remove at birth...31 years later looking for procedure to have implants. Does anyone have any info on this at all?
tresa 27-Jun-2009 14:02
Mine was extremely painful st first and it turned out that there was more nail left in there, do not take no for an answer, there is a definite chance that there is nail left in there. Mine was white. I now have a pyogenic granuloma that they are going to have to burn if it does not healby the end of next week.
Jeana 26-Jun-2009 19:52
Okay...here is a dumb question. I can't get in until July 1 to ask my doctor some questions. I had my big toenail removed 2-1/2 weeks ago and I could swear that he left another toenail under the first. I reallly couldn't see much the first few days due to bleeding, but I seem to have a whitish area near the top of my toe. But now that I look at it, I wonder if this is just the scab everyone is talking about and not a forgotten under-nail. Do the scabs look white? I would not be happy if this is another nail as the area under it seems even more sensitive than the nailbed. Help.
Dee 25-Jun-2009 12:40
Tresa & Tanya - So sorry to hear your toes are infected. The entire process is complicated enough without this added attraction. Good Luck and keep us posted!
Tanya 25-Jun-2009 07:08
Both my toes were also infected hence the pain, I have been given antibiotics, but have been told to only soak once every other day. Feels like its never going to heal!
Guest 25-Jun-2009 04:05
Thank you for replying Dee, this has been no fun, I have prescription pain killers and can not sleep without them. I do take tylenol during the day, I had my toe looked at today and it turns out it is infected, hence all the pain. I am now on an antibiotic as well and they swabbed it for MRSA as the infection looks rather bad. I will keep you all posted. I do soak it about 5 times a day in epsom salts
Dee 24-Jun-2009 13:35
tresa: Try keeping it covered and take Tylenol or Advil unless your doc gave you a perscription. Are you soaking it?
My podiotrist insists that I continue to keep my toes covered with a 2x2 gauze square all the time except when I soak twice a day with table salt/H2O. I am nearly a month post surgery (total, absolute removal of both large toenails) and am having only a mild amount of pain - Tylenol a couple times a day seems to do the trick. I haven't even entertained the thoughts of wearing shoes - flips are my only footwear (if anyone objects - they will just have to get over it!). Yesterday I had another follow-up appointment and my Doc "cleaned-up" my toes. No, it didn't hurt, but the thoughts of him doing whatever he was doing just about made me freak out! So, he just leaned the exam chair back and I stared at the ceiling while talking incessently! Pretty bad for a 58 year old!! Recovery is slow but I am hopeful the results will be well worth it.
tresa 24-Jun-2009 00:27
I had my great toenail removed last Thursday, I can not bend my toe at all, if my toe even touches the sheet the pain is unbearable. I can not touch the toe anywhere without pain. How long will this last?
Jeana 19-Jun-2009 18:48
Who knew that so many of us would have toenails removed? I had my left BT removed one and a half weeks ago and I'm just figuring out I probably shouldn't have it wrapped up in a bandaid all day and all night. It always looks "wet" and is still way too tender to even try with a shoe. Plus, I've only soaked for 20 min. once a day.........I see some people are soaking way more frequently. Fortunately I have an old pair of sandals that I can wear - nothing touches this toe or I hurt. Any ideas how to speed up the healing so I'm not so sensitive to touch? I have a big event in a month and would really like to wear nicer sandals.
Dee 17-Jun-2009 14:23
RE: JB
What is the ratio of water to Dreft that you use? That sounds very soothing and surely less drying than the table salt I have been using (per docotr's instuctions).
Guest 17-Jun-2009 14:20
Tanya:
If you are in actual pain you should call your doc for advice.
After about 2 weeks post surgery I am having what I am refeering to as "healing pains". Sort of a tightening feeling with some discomfort - happens only in the evening (after my last soak of the day) as I am air-drying my toes. If I continue to walk around there is no pain - lay down with my feet up and the sensations start again. Very strange. Took some Tylenol , left the toes uncovered and slept all night. There must be several different "stages" this process takes and we each, most likely, have our own quirks associated with it all.
Tanya 17-Jun-2009 06:48
Hi all, I had surgery to my both my big toes just over a week ago, and have been back to have my dressings changed and everything looked fine, but I am still getting quite a bit of pain (like a cramp and stabbing pain) is this normal? from other threads on here it seems that most people seem to be mostly pain free after a couple of days, where as I am still in quite a lot of pain. Can any one advise me?
JB 17-Jun-2009 00:19
To ALL:

I soaked with DREFT and believe it works better.
Let it air dry as much as possible.
I also used a non stick pad and gause...instead of a bandade...I thought a bandade stuck too much to the wound.
Just do not bump it or get it dirty.
And the 1st 2 weeks is the most likely time for infection. If you feel pain or stinging in it alot go back to foot doctor and get some pills.
Other then that....its about it.
6-8 weeks healing time.
Good Luck to all.
Hope this helps.
JB 17-Jun-2009 00:15
Re Bonnie/Guest

I had the same problem over a year ago when I had my 1st big toe done. The key is next time or WHOEVER is reading this tell your foot doctor to put on a non -stick pad over the banadage. Then you just stick the foot in the water and it comes right off. I had to go to the ER b/c mine was stuck so bad and it hurt really bad when they finally took it off. And like I said to give it alot off air. I'd say for the 1st week to week and a 1/2 have a baindade on it 95% of the time with a little air after you soak it soak it. Then start to let it air dry as much as possible. Espicially if you're at home and you're not going anywhere. Keep letting it air dry is key to a quicker recovery. Just do not bump it or let anything get into the wound. I'd just put a non stick pad and then a band dade when I went to work or out some where.
JB 17-Jun-2009 00:06
RE: DEE
I prefered Dreft. I never used espon salt ..etc. The Dreft really cleans your toe. The last time I just soaked it once a day the whole time. It was around the same healing time...6-8 weeks. I just kept wearing sandles...soaking once per day with Dreft...letting it air dry as much as possible....putting a little neo sporion on it...the key is to just not glob it on..if you do that it causes it not to drain properly......and do not bump it...and thats basically it. The process is just so slow and is sometimes frustrating. It just takes time. Other then that I'd say follow my instructions and good luck 2 you.
Dee 15-Jun-2009 17:14
This is a very helpful forum; thanks to everyone for their comments, suggestions and ideas.
I return to my podiatrist next week and am hopeful he will cut my soaks back to once a day. I will inquire of him about the advisability of leaving the bandages off during the night. It seems like a good idea - fresh air is a good thing. I am a stickler for following my doctor's rules to the letter!
JB: Dreft for soaking instead of the table salt? Interesting and something else for me to ask my doc.
Invincible Toenail 15-Jun-2009 14:20
Bonnie/Guest, you need to get that band-aid off. If you cannot get it off yourself, then you need to go back to the doctor and get them to remove it. The toe cannot heal with the band-aid stuck to it. While I am having this done again this Wednesday, I have had this same toe done twice before and had this same problem the first time. I waited 24 hours after the surgery, and the bandage was stuck. Mine was not a band-aid, it was gauze. It took me about an hour of soaking in distilled vinegar and water (you must dillute the vinegar or it wil burn like fire) to get the gauze loose. I did have to pull if off the nail bed as a tiny piece was still stuck. I one of those people that would rather hurt myself than let someone else pull it off. It did bleed for a few minutes, but it stopped. Then, they key is to really moisten it up when you put another bandage on, and this won't happen again. The crazy thing about these nail bed healings is that it must heal slowly while staying moist. My doctor (both times) told me never to let it get a scab on it. If it got a scab, he would remove it. Keeping it moist does make the healing time slower, but I've had good results both times. The only problem is that the darn thing came back both times (even though it was supposed to be permanent)--hence my name on this board. I would leave the nail I have on now, but it "floats" over my nail bed and is only stuck at the base of toe. It is very thick, ugly and rises so high off the toe that shoes hurt in the winter where they push against it. Best of luck to you in getting the band-aid off.
Invincible Toenail 15-Jun-2009 14:15
Bonnie/Guest, you need to get that band-aid off. If you cannot get it off yourself, then you need to go back to the doctor and get them to remove it. The toe cannot heal with the band-aid stuck to it. While I am having this done again this Wednesday, I have had this same toe done twice before and had this same problem the first time. I waited 24 hours after the surgery, and the bandage was stuck. Mine was not a band-aid, it was gauze. It took me about an hour of soaking in distilled vinegar and water (you must dillute the vinegar or it wil burn like fire) to get the gauze loose. I did have to pull if off the nail bed as a tiny piece was still stuck. I one of those people that would rather hurt myself than let someone else pull it off. It did bleed for a few minutes, but it stopped. Then, they key is to really moisten it up when you put another bandage on, and this won't happen again. The crazy thing about these nail bed healings is that it must heal slowly while staying moist. My doctor (both times) told me never to let it get a scab on it. If it got a scab, he would remove it. Keeping it moist does make the healing time slower, but I've had good results both times. The only problem is that the darn thing came back both times (even though it was supposed to be permanent)--hence my name on this board. I would leave the nail I have on now, but it "floats" over my nail bed and is only stuck at the base of toe. It is very thick, ugly and rises so high off the toe that shoes hurt in the winter where they push against it. Best of luck to you in getting the band-aid off.
Bonnie 15-Jun-2009 00:12
This is a continuation of the first guest post. What worries me is how is fresh air going to get to the nail bed and heal it, if it is covered up still, even after soaking it for 2 hours in Epsom salts?
Thanks.
Bonnie
Guest 15-Jun-2009 00:09
I had my left toenail removed due to an infected toe, not an ingrown toenail, but the infection did not go away so the doc wanted to remove the nail. He did not do anything like whaat I see here. Instead of putting ointment over the nail, he put a small bandaid then covered that with huge gauze and a wrapping, then told me to soak my nail the next day. Well, I cut off the huge gauze but could not get the small bandaid off and although I have now soaked it twice, that small bandaid is still stuck to the nail. I called him and he said that hyrogren pyroxide would take off the bandaid but that did not work. Will the bandaid grow off on its own? He said nothing about applying ointment only soaking it.
JB 13-Jun-2009 04:49
RE: DEE
I have had both of mt big toe nails removed over the past year. It takes around 6-8 weeks to heal. It just a long ordeal. After a couple weeks I'd go to just once a day soaking. I prefered soaking with Dreft. Also, for yourself and anyone...after a couple weeks let it air dry as much as possible. Even at night when you sleep if you can. I just would not use covers. The more you let it air dry the better it heals in my opinion. Just keep it clean and try not to bump it or break the scab more open once it finally begins to heal.
Dee 11-Jun-2009 16:12
One week post both big toenails removed - I am feeling the discomfort of the healing process. Cannot catagorize it as a pain, rather a "tight" sensation. I think an Advil or Tylenol might be helpful. Still soaking 2X/day with salt water and applying the antibacterial cream 2X/day. There is a little light-red tinged seepage from both toes. I wear loosly applied 2x2 bandages all the time - even at night - and have only worn flip-flops for the week.
InvincibleToenail 09-Jun-2009 19:15
I'm having my right, big toenail "permanently" removed for the THIRD time next week. I swear, after a nuclear disaster my toenail will be left. My question to everyone is, I know underneath my "nail" (I can't call it that because it breaks like sawdust and floats over the nail bed [unattached] except at the base), the bed is very rough. Does anyone know if there is a way for the podiatrist to "smooth" the skin bed left after the toenail removal has healed?
Dee 09-Jun-2009 13:03
Update to my TN removal on the 4th of June: Day 5 - Still not having any pain. Saw my doctor yesterday - he said they were doing fine, continue soaking 2x/day, keep covered with a loose 2x2 and use the anitbiotic cream 2x/day. I am truely amazed that this ordeal is painfree! Great Doc! Advice to all: FOLLOW POST-OP INSTRUCTIONS!!
Hi-Liter 08-Jun-2009 05:52
I had my L big toenail removed 5 weeks ago. My recovery is also taking a long time. I think I'm looking at 4 more weeks of the healing process. In my case, I am taking forever to heal due to the fact that I have to work and my toe is in a bandaid for up to 12 hours at a time. What I want to add to this forum is what my wonderful Dr. told me for post-op.
First of all -- drying it out is most important. You do this by soaking in warm epsom salt water 5-6 times a day for the first 4 days. This helps the skin slough off quicker therefore, healing quicker. The initial bandage should come off and stay off after your first soaking. Use only bandaids from that point on.
After that, you want to soak it 3 times a day until healed. Only covering it with a bandaid when wearing a shoe. Otherwise it should be getting oxygen as much as possible. He also recommended at the 4 week mark to occasionally put some hydrocortisone cream on it. This also helps the skin to slough off.
Just soak the crap out of it and let it dry.
I am occasionally still oozing and it gets goobery after wearing a bandaid and a shoe. I still get the burning sensation when I have been on my feet too long.
My Doc also told me that he has been amazed at the variation of healing time among his patients. Some are 2-3 weeks and some are 2-3 months and everything in between. SO the healing process really depends on you and how much you are able to get away with not wearing a shoe.
Dee 05-Jun-2009 19:08
Had both large toenails removed yesterday. Numbing was relatively painless and I have yet to experience any actual pain. Following docs orders; went home after the procedure, kept my feet elevated for about 5 hours, am soaking 2x/day with saltwater and applying perscription antibiotic. So glad to be rid of my thick, fungus reddled nails! ugh.......... He said the healing process will take about 8 weeks - at least it is summer and I can wear flip flops - maybe the fresh air will help the healing.
gfunk 01-Jun-2009 09:39
fascinating. not very pretty, but i guess if God intended us to all have pretty feet, they would have evolved that way. but one does not necessarily attract a mate with toenails anyway.
Sarah 31-May-2009 07:15
I had my big toenail removed about two weeks ago....I was so scared but the remova itself was so much easier (and quicker) then i expected. I had a little pain after but then it settled down with some painkillers. The only thing i can complain about is the healing time!! No one explains to you how long it takes to heal...I an two weeks on and still it doesnt look remotely better. There is no way i could put socks on without a bandage and the wound is still weeping like mad. Some shoes are totally out of the question as they rub my toe and make it very uncomfortable. I am still glad I had it done but wish the recovery time was explained to me a little better as i just got discharged with a letter telling me how to bandage and no information on how it would look or how long it would take to heal. This website has been very informative and helped me to feel less anxious that something is wrong with my toe.
Butch 28-May-2009 04:40
I just got one big toenail off at 11:00 this morning and still (at 10:30 pm) have yet to feel even a hint of pain from it! It was quick and easy. I was pretty worried about how bad it would hurt and it was way better than I thought. Really it all depends on how bad the nail is as oppose to the level of pain you might have. Fourtunatly iv'e been on vicodin for the last 4 years or so, and that could also help in the pain department. The actual procedure took about 5 minutes, and I didnt feel a thing! Hope anyone that is having this done has the same outcome. Oh yeah........ahhhhhh
Bonnie 26-May-2009 20:54
I'm post op 1 week still painfull and with little of dr's post op instruction. Changing the bandage every day seems to keep every thing going good but thanks to the comments I now know I can soak my foot and really clean the gue that has built up. Thanks everone..
bryguy 26-May-2009 19:28
has anyone been embarrassed about their feet or toenails?
Guest 24-May-2009 20:31
I have all my toenails thick and yellow because of fungus infection. I decided to have them permanently removed. No matter how painful it is.
Jenny 17-May-2009 15:20
Its been almost 6 days since my big toenail removal. It still hurts bad! Its a constant burning feeling where the toenail used to be. If Im walking around for awhile it burns even more. This is crazy to me, I thought it would be alot better then it is now. Not happy with the recovery time. You really need to be able to take time off of work for recovery... Im really mad I missing work.
lynette 16-May-2009 12:06
5 days since surgery my toes are draining alot, Worked 3rd day cashier at JCPenney and I think thats why so much drainage.
kimberly 15-May-2009 17:27
Last friday is when I had my big toenail removed. Today I have my followup appointment. My directions were to soak once a day in a warm water-epsom salt-iodine solution. I was also informed to keep it bandaged for the first week or so. I'll be going to my appointment with it bandaged today since it has a bit of drainage.

also, i have been walking on my foot fine for the most part. The day after the procedure, I even went to work (i'm a waitress). it was horrible and painful, but I didn't have any choice as we were very understaffed. Today, however, there would be NO way that i'd be able to put a shoe on. Once again, it is achy (but not enough that I cannot sleep during the night). Healing is definitely taking a while and i'm astounded that my cat that was declawed 2 days ago is back to normal while i'm still limping about.
Lynette 15-May-2009 13:33
Sorry but another thought, I didn't realize that toenails coming off could be this long of recovery.
One thing will say is that I had the fungus for a VERY long time and never wore open toed shoes. Now guess what? I can not stay out of the shoes department!! I CANT WAIT to get some cute sandals! I wish I'd done this 15 years ago!! :)
lynette 15-May-2009 13:25
Hi everyone I'm glad your all here because my Dr. didnt gve much info,and I have found a wealth of info here!!
I had both big toenails permantly removed on Mon May 11 and its been 4 days now.Oozing from one toe and the other not so bad.I slept with bandages off last night and they are drying and prickly feeling this am.Wearing only flip flops with bandage after soaking in "plain" water and putting on neosporin. It is weird to me the Dr saying only plain warm water...no salt or anything. I see people here are using salt water, should I?? :)
Also the oozing is from sides of nail bed...? is that where everyones comes from?
Thank you for being here!
Lynette
Platinumfish@msn.com
Jenny 14-May-2009 17:41
Thanks for the help Kimberly... Im 57 hrs post op, yes Im counting by hour, or almost 3 days post op I guess. The pain is still really signifigant. I just had the one big toe done. Honestly I still cant walk on it. The pressure in my toe is bad when I stand on it...it feels like its about to explode, and I also get this tearing feeling. I've been cleaning it twice a day. It still looks disgusting, like an open wound, but theres no puss, or swelling, or even leakage. It looks clear but nasty and bloody, so beacause of all this, I dont think its infected, but I think its unusual I cant walk on it without alot of pain yet... has it happened to anyone else where it was very uncomfortable to walk 3 days post op?
Kimberly 13-May-2009 14:38
Jenny- I got my big toenail completely and permanently removed 5 days ago. The first two nights I didn't sleep at all. By the 3rd night, the pain was significantly reduced and i was able to sleep through the night. So much that the entire day after that good night's sleep, I didn't have to take a single pain killer (in fact, I haven't taken a pain killer since day 3!). Hang in there!
Jenny 13-May-2009 00:21
Hi everyone! I love this board! I just had my big toenail completely removed... 5pm yesterday... so its been 26hrs and counting... man it is sooooooooo painful, the throbbing, the burning, the aching... I keep on hoping its going to get better soon... like now... of course doc didnt give me any pain killers so i took 800mg ibuprofen an hour ago.. not much difference yet. It is such a bad kind of pain, like teasing me boarding on the edge of I want to scream and intolerable....been cursing alot today.. randomly! LOL Tommorrows got to be better! How long did the severe pain last with everyone? Not talking tenderness...
Kimberly 07-May-2009 17:24
How much did the procedure cost? I'm looking to have my big toenail removed and don't have health insurance, and i have no idea how much it is going to be...
Jessie 03-May-2009 09:19
HI EVERYONE! So its 2 in the morning and I cant sleep because of the damn pain! I had my big left toe nail removed a day and a half ago. Its not permanet because I am also taking Lamasil and will begin to use a powerful anti-fungal cream. I have had fungus for like 8 years. I took lamasil alone and it did not work. My co-worker's mom had 8 toe nails removed with this same doctor and all her nails grew back beautiful and fungus free so I hope my one toe nail will grow back fungus free as well. The procedure was NOT painful at all but the recovery is quite painful. I still have my nail covered because I a afraid to see what it looks like. The doctor did not give me any instructions. What should I do?? Any advice?
celticpride 02-May-2009 17:58
Procedure is quick. Doc hit my toes with local anesthetic and I felt nothing on them after that. I watched the whole removal cuz im sick like that but people with weak stomachs may want to just lay back and look at the roof, it only takes about 5 minutes start to finish, per toe. If you feel anything on your when the doctor begins, let him know! He will inject a bit more, trust me, you will have enough discomfort to deal with after the surgery. Next he will loosen and lift the nail from the bed with a flat tool, then grab the nail with plyers and remove the nail you can see as well as some white nail that was under the skin. Finally he will use a q-tip soaked in Phenol to burn the nail matrix where it grows from, swabbing it under the skin at the base of the nail bed. Then he bandages you up and gives you some after care instructions. Feeling will start to return shortly so best to get home and put the feet up for the day.
I waited a day to take bandages off and check out the results. Put your feet in a tub of warm water and let them soak for a while and slowly peel bandages off. There will be plenty of blood soaked in them and they will just pull scabs off if you try and do it without the water. It will look somewhat horrific when you see whats under the bandage but healing has already started. I let it sit in the open air for the rest of the day with my feet up in the recliner.
Each morning i took a bandaid and put it on running it the length of the toe, and then wrapping a piece of tape that doesn't stick to skin around the toe to hold the bandaid. Then it was socks and sandals for the first month. Soaked the bandaid off in water with Epsom salts in it after work and then let it air dry. The salt will help dry up the wound. I recommend this because it will ooze quit a bit for the first while, but it should be clear and wholesome, if oozing is yellowish, puss like, smelly, you should have it checked. This is the burned matrix leaking, the nail bed is like bad road rash, so be patient on the healing. After 4 weeks I could start to wear loose shoes, I am now at almost 2.5 months and all is good, no pain and there is just a little bit of gnarly skin on a couple toes that will come off soon. After that its like scar tissue, I moisturize it a few times a week and that keeps them pink and soft.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
Linda 30-Apr-2009 03:58
I am having all my nails removed at the surgrey center. Do they put you all the way out? I have read about the injectons wonder if this was done before surgrey. They said I would be out. I have not read a post yet that a person has done this at a hospital. How they did
annaleu 31-Mar-2009 18:58
Chose your podiatrist or general surgeon carefully-get a referral from your GP (ask who he/she would go to) or ask friends who have had a good result. My podiatrist did a great block with a long lasting anesthetic and I had NO PAIN. I wore shoes over my dressing the next day and had no problems. It was a little tender and don't let anyone step on your foot-it hurts, I know-it happened! I knew a general surgeon at one time who did an awesome job for a friend. You must follow the doc's directions and soak, change bandages, keep clean as the doctor instructs. 3 weeks and you're good to go. Good luck.
KTOL 31-Mar-2009 16:42
Hi everyone, I have a horrible infection on my left foot, all of the nails and would like them removed, I'm not worried about the pain because I've cut them down many times myself and dealt with that pain, but they just keep getting worse. What I am worried about is the cost. I really want them removed because it's really painful just to have them infected and fungal to begin with. Is the cost worth the results? Thanks a lot!
Tina 27-Mar-2009 17:06
I had Tree toenails done 3 weeks ago and in Four weeks i will be having another three nails done then another two. I have had two nails done last year so cant wait till it all over and done so i can be nail free no more pain and infection
Kim 26-Mar-2009 19:33
I had my big toenail removed 17 days ago, due to a fungal infection. I used the topical medication and took the Lamisil, with no change. So, I opted for permanent toenail removal. The anxiety leading up to the procedure was terrible for me, but I knew I had to have it done. The procedure itself is not bad after they give you the shots to numb the toe. About 5 hours later, the pain began. I was not given any pain pills, but I had some left over hydrocodone and took that. I ended up taking a half day off of work the next day. I still cannot wear a shoe, I have been using an orthopedic "boot", which is difficult as I have to dress up every day for work. I agree, this is VERY painful and my doctor told me I would be wearing a shoe right after the procedure, NOT! I would rather go through childbirth again, then to have a toenail removed. I am not out of the woods yet, it appears I have at least 6 more weeks to "deal" with this. Good luck to everyone out there!
mandy 26-Mar-2009 12:50
Hi my son is 12, had big toenail removed and nail bed destroyed 3 weeks ago..is horrific, really painful and got infected..he already been off school with other one 3 weeks and was only sides removed..have got antibiotics should it start to heal after this?
LindaLenn 24-Mar-2009 06:48
I have to get my big toenail removed this week, and was fine with the thought until I saw these pics & read your posts....now I am scared. Mine is being removed because I have a history of melanoma, and they saw 2 spots that appeared to be moles under my nail. So, they'll be removing my nails, and then cutting out the moles as they have done elsewhere on my body. My question is, were any of you on crutches afterwards to help you get around?
bryguy 19-Mar-2009 18:49
do you guys go barefoot now with the toenails removed?
celticpride 18-Mar-2009 00:14
I had my big toes done 5 months ago now and I am happy with the final results. They are pink and most people didn't even notice they were missing until i told them. Nothing was as socially awkward as being terrified to take your socks off because of thick and yellow toenails that I had before. Unfortunately all my toes were badly overrun with fungus so I had the following 8 done 1 month ago today. Healing as expected, still looking tore up but the really healing is about to take place as the oozing from the chemical burns has really let up.
I chose this course of action because I had no success with any home remedies and I was too scared to take Lamisil due to the effects on my system and it was possible to contract the fungus again down the road.
For anyone considering this route, I can only say that it will take time to heal. I had to wear sandals for a month after each procedure, now I'm on to some loose shoes without discomfort. Still 8 bandages every morning which is a pain in the butt.
But I will say this, the juice was worth the squeeze. People don't notice pink toes with no nails, but they can pick up on funky toenails from a long way off, and I WILL be rocking sandals at the beach this summer.
Cheers
Mike 16-Mar-2009 04:36
it has been almost 2 months since I dropped a large piece of granite on my foot..(Big toe nail removed due to pieces shattering and penetrating nail bed) I have kept it clean...covered..but now i have redness around the base and yellowed skin (new skin in nail bed) comments?
Guest 04-Mar-2009 02:31
HI...........
paul 01-Mar-2009 14:09
just read the comments and got my question answered tanx,well done on the post very imformative,hope i never have to go thru it all again tho
paul 01-Mar-2009 14:05
well,had mine done for the 3rd time believe it or not 3 weeks ago,cringe even looking at the pictures,for any1 that needs to get it done,dont let the pictures put u off,u dont feel anyting but pressure sensation like with the dentist,get it done and dont put if off..last time just had a slice at the side taken away and the root burnt.still very sore and tender at the root,cant remember it been sore this long any1 else experience this
cosey1 26-Feb-2009 17:32
I WENT BAC TO MY DOC. ON THE 24 OF FEB. 19 DAYS AFTER MY REMOVAL, MY TOES ARE STILL VERY TENDER ,OOZING,THROBING, & I STILL CANT WEAR COVERED TOED SHOES, OR LET THE SHEETS TOUCH THEM, MY DOC SAYS THEY ARE DOING GREAT :( THEY HURT & LOOK LIKE CRAP, HOWEVER MY FRIEND TOLD ME TO TRY SOAKING THEM IN DIAL GOLD LIQUID ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP WHERE WAS SHE 19 DAYS AGO THIS FEELS GREAT & A LOT OF THE NASTY LOOKING STUFF JUST CAME OFF . ( GOOD-LUCK MY BARETOED FRIENDS)
Army Gal 25-Feb-2009 17:40
Hi. I had a toenail removed due to bad blister underneath. It was a temporary prblem, I just needed a temporary solution. Air Force Doc. She didn't tell me it was permanently removed but that was around 23 NOV and still no nail growing Will it grow back? How long does it take? She inserted metal rods to drain it and pulled the nail off but didn't dig around in the nail bed. What makes it permanent?
Also, I have found a place called SPAthena in Houston that I believe does prosthetic nails. Hopefully I won't need one.
Sondra 24-Feb-2009 16:13
hi all my name is Sondra, and I go tomorrow to see what can be done with my big right toe nail, its growed inward at the end of the toe nail its thick,yes its painful,im guessing this toe nail will have to come off, after looking through this site, that makes me feel good{not} its been very helpful to know what happens dureing, and how it is after, and im not looking forward to either,thanks for those photos,eeeekkkk but at least i know, and thats good, i can be somewhat prepared.
Guest 23-Feb-2009 16:38
I had the big toe nail removed 4 days ago. I cannot believe the level of pain this causes. When I left the Drs' office he said take a couple of acetaminophen "if needed" for pain every 4 hours. HA!!!!! Hell, I broke out an old prescription of Vicodin and have been taking that every 2-3 hrs since. I had this done on a Thurs. afternoon, took Friday off and figured I'd be bouncing back to work on Monday. I was so wrong. So unprepared, and feeling pretty stupid for not researching this before I had this done. Hey I'm in pain and allowed to be grumpy .
guest 20-Feb-2009 09:30
Has anyone considered wearing fake toenails?
Becky 18-Feb-2009 05:05
I had my left big toenail removed today. The pain is awful. I took two Advil about 7 hours ago and two more a few minutes ago. I'm reading that it took 2-3 months for the toe to heal but how long does it usually take for the pain to subside? I'm on the verge of tears here.
cosey1 18-Feb-2009 00:16
this site has really helped me , i had 4 nails removed feb.5, both of my big toes & my second toe on both feet , which i thought was a bit much, but i definately wouldn`t have gone back if the doc. had only removed them from one, i was fine after the removal but the next morning i woke up screaming BLOODY MURDER , I have had 8 surgeries on other parts of my body nothing was close 2 being this painful. its been 12 days & they are still very tender I can`t stand for anything to touch them . one of them has a lot of what look 2 be dried blood & its the only one that does not ooze any more is this a good or bad thing & should I try & brush it with a soft toothbrush after soaking to remove it or is it o.k. I soak twice a day in epsom salt, but tonight i am going to try DREFT & see if it feels beeter I return 2 the doc on the 24 for my check up
Guest 12-Feb-2009 05:01
Three weeks ago my foot was crushed by a large piece of marble (It fell out of my hands). I had the nail on the big toe removed. How should I keep it clean?
JB 04-Feb-2009 03:24
RE: DIANE

Congrats on your recovery. I got my last nail removed just a few days before yours. Its just a long battle. I just started wearing regular shoes on a consisent basis a few weeks ago. It took me probably around 8-weeks. Hopefully that was my last fungal nail.
JB 04-Feb-2009 03:15
RE:Johanne

Yeah read all my posts. I've had 2 removes this year. Both of mine are healed now.
It took both of my toes around 8 weeks each toe to heal. It takes for ever. I never really had much pain with it except for the 1st time when I got an infection with it. Are you wearing regular shoes? You should try not to. Let it air dry as much as possible. Even when you sleep at night. I alot of times just would not use covers. Try soaking once a day with Dreft. Thats about it. Just keep it clean and try not to bump it. It just takes forever.
DIANE 02-Feb-2009 01:00
I HAD MY TOENIAL PERMANENTLY REMOVED ON NOVEMBER 04-2008. I HAVE HAD MY SHARE OF WOES AND NOW AFTER 14 WEEKS I HAVE ONLY A SMALL SCAB LEFT. I HAVE HAD SHOES ON OFR ONLY 2 WEEKS AND I HAVE TRIED ICE SKATING NOW 3 TIMES AND FIND MY TOE TO GET COLD VERY FAST. I AM GOING TO TRY VOLLEYBALL THIS WEEK. I AM READY TO BE ACTIVE AGAIN.....WHAT A LONG ROAD
tkmaz31-Jan-2009 17:22
I just had mine removed yesterday - it was not permanent. I posted on another one but unsure how people respond. New here. :)

When does the pain subside? Taking care of a family w/ a painful toe is almost impossible. I was given no pain meds, only using OTC.

I clean it for the first time tonight - SCARED.
X-sashaX 28-Jan-2009 21:52
Hi im in quite a bit of pain at the moment, im only 12 and my mum is a nail beautist.She says i might have ingrown toenail it's on the side of my big toe (left foot) and it's agony if you touch it but O.K if you leave it-so hears my question- will it get any worse and shall i see my G.P? meny thanksxxx
Johanne 25-Jan-2009 07:53
Wow.. it's been 18 days. What the heck am I doing still hobbling!!! Surgery was two and a half weeks ago. The worst pain was when I had to return to the choropotist ten days later for a follow up. She checked it and "tidied" it up. OUCH! It continues to heal but man it feels like it's taking forever! I assumed, from reading up, that the healing would take awhile. You guys weren't kidding. There's no infection; it just aches a little sometimes but Advil seems to really help out. Any time I've been on my feet for more than a couple of hours the toe becomes red and irritated and I feel like I'm going in reverse with the healing. But as soon as I rest and elavate my foot for an hour or so, it feels a lot better. Don't know how any of you manage to return to work or school within days.. you're freakin amazing! Someone wrote about having had all ten toes done. You're just nuts..lol. I don't think my four c-sections were as bad as having had all ten toes done. No wonder it's a form of torture in some countries! Seriously though, be forewarned that the healing process is four to eight weeks. I've no regrets doing it, am relieved that the toenail is gone and can no longer hurt me, and I'm just looking forward to the whole thing being history. Best wishes to everyone contemplating or about to have the surgery done. Now, isn't there an annual convention we get to go to? lol.
SharonR22-Jan-2009 20:58
My toe nail (big one) has nearly healed now, the scab has almost gone and I can honestly say that I had no pain whatsoever from start to finish, I feel extremely lucky, only problem is that I have to have the other big toe removed soon. I would definately go out with sandals on etc, to be honest I really don't think it looks that bad if you get up close you would notice but not from a distance, I would certainly consider false nail, apparently you can get an acrylic nail made - thats my next step.
bryguy 18-Jan-2009 06:36
how old are you man and how long did you have the fungus? did it bother you at all to be barefoot? how bout now?
imiebob 18-Jan-2009 04:41
I had all 10 nails removed at one time
This was perhaps one of the top 5 pain engagements I've ever had (several back surgeries ad finally a fusion along with a few other items

Doc told me I'd be up and about in a few days, well 1 month later and they are still scabbed and burn constantly.

I had a very serious case of fungal nails and they hurt like hell and looked even worse, so I guess the end result is all that matters, but beware, this is a very painful procedure 1,2 or all 10 nails

A friend in KY
lori 16-Jan-2009 14:59
hi. i have to get two toenails taken off ,they have fungus on them.i dont want perminate removal unless it is a strong possiability that fungus will return .the only problem i have is i have to ware closed toe shoes to work because i do alot of walking .so how long shoud i stay off my feet.
bryguy 16-Jan-2009 06:27
any guys here who had this done? would you ever wear fake toenails?
marie 14-Jan-2009 02:16
Johanne-
Reading your last post made me remember something about my experience that I thought I would share. Some of the worst pain I had when mine was healing was when I stopped covering it, and let it "dry out." When your ready to leave it uncovered and that moist skin starts to dry and tighten- brace yourself it maybe painful. That is a tricky time, and it can be hard to decide when to leave it uncovered. Trust yourself, you are the only one who knows how it feels. I'm glad this has been a positive experience for you thusfar, and I hope it continues to be. Good luck.
Johanne 13-Jan-2009 02:16
Thanks Marie for the encouragement. Well said, too. I have been taking it easy and there's been no problems with swelling because of that. My surgery was on a Tuesday. Friday night I took off the bandages. While showering I let the bandages get wet, as per the choropitist's instructions. After showering the bandages just slipped off. I soaked it in warm (previously boiled) salt water for five minutes. There was no pain or discomfort until it began to dry. There was stinging for a few minutes but that was it. After it dried I rebandaged it. I've been doing this daily since Friday and it only really hurt twice, for a few minutes, during the drying process. I go get occasional discomfort but once I've elavated the foot, the pain goes away. Also, I've been wearing only a white sock over the bandages and my husband's big slippers if need be. Any pressure from my own shoe or the weight of a heavy, tight sock, or blankets, will cause me pain too. So I just avoid all that. I'll be doing the 5-minute soak once daily until I see the doctor this Friday for a followup. I've been taking it really easy, doing little and keeping the foot evalated most of the time. The one thing I find amazing is that I'm no longer in pain in relation to how the toenail was causing me pain prior to surgery. Marie.. I'm so sorry people minimized your experience. I trust they're not your friends! As if they don't yell out when they stub a toe. What nerve. I actually posted a picture on Facebook of my post-surgery toe when I took off the bandage for the first time.. lol. I'll post once more after I revisit the choropitist on Friday. Again, I'm sooo glad I decided to do the surgery. Life without that toenail pain is amazing!
Marie 12-Jan-2009 05:59
Johanne-
So glad to hear your procedure went well. It is definately a scary experience. Thank God for Lorazapam right? I wish I had thought of that! I had mine removed in July of 2008, it is completely healed but the nail bed is still sensitive. I wonder if it will ever feel like normal skin. My advice to you would be just take it easy, and take it seriously. Some people I know laughed about it and thought it wasn't a big deal. That is until they saw it after the bandages were removed. Continue to take good care, and good luck.
Johanne 08-Jan-2009 04:09
It's been 12 hours since my surgery-nope, I didn't chicken out in the end.. lol. I took 1mg lorazapam before bed the night before. It helped with the anxiety. Half an hour before surgery, I took 0.5 mg lorazapam and 400mg Advil. Before the freezing, I told the doctor how I was having a hard time- feeling anxious about the freezing, what to expect to actually feel during surgery and that I might start to experience pain during surgery. Asking the questions helped me get the fear off my chest. It also helped the doctor know what she was dealing with.. one big suck..lol. She explained where the needles were going to go, how long it would take to freeze, what she'd be doing to ensure the toe was frozen, and what she planned to do if it wasn't completely frozen. She also told me to tell her if I felt anything once surgery started. I had a choice whether or not to watch or lay back, and whether or not I wanted her to tell me everything she was doing or if I wanted to ask about the progress when and if I wanted to. I didn't watch any of it. She used topical freezing initially. Then, as she began to use the needle to freeze, I felt the first two or three pokes.. a sudden but quick sting. Only once the quick, sharp pain of the needle startled me and i jumped a little. After that.. smooth sailing. About 10 minutes after the freezing she tested for numbness. I felt sensation in three areas so she topped up the freezing. At that point I didn't feel the needle because she was injecting into already frozen skin. I didn't feel any of the procedure and I didn't look either. Afterwards, she showed me my new, no-nail toe. Ug. Mine is a little strange looking because there is scar tissue in the center where the nail had been pushing into the skin for years. I've been told to leave on the dressing for three days, keeping it entirely dry. I'm taking Advil to reduce any swelling -which means reduces any pain. In three days I'm supposed to take a shower, let the dressing get wet and then allow the dressing to just fall off. Then I'm to soak the toe for 5 minutes in a saline solution, then allow it to dry. I'm to redress it and every day go through the same soaking in a saline solution, then redressing it. I'm not to put anything on it. I see the doctor again in eight days. I have to say, I'm in no pain. Then again I've had a totally laid back day- only getting up to eat or go to the bathroom. I plan to take it this easy until the three days is up and I can wash and redress it. The doctor told me to keep my foot up and take it easy for the first three days to start with. No problem there!! Thanks everyone for posting here. You've been instrumental in making this a breathable, copeable journey. Thanks especially to the site owner. I'll repost in three days with followup information in case anyone is following my experience.
Guest 07-Jan-2009 14:53
TO J.B.
I SEE YOU ARE ASKING QUESTIONS AND WONDERING IF JASMIN IS THE ONE WHOSE MUM HAS BEEN POSTING ABOUT. ANSWER TO THIS ONE IS NO. MY 15 YR OLD SON, WHO YOU HAVE BEEN HELPING ME SOLVE PROBLEMS WITH IS SCOTT, SO JASMINE IS A DIFFERENT CASE. WELL HE LASTED 2 DAYS AT SCHOOL,WITH WIDER SHOES ETC ON UNTIL HIS SPECIAL SHOES AND INSOLES SHOULD BE READY ON 14TH JAN, BUT HAS TO SEE SPECIALIST THAT OPERATED ON THE 12TH JAN. HIS TOES ALTHOUGH NOT RAW NOW, SEEM TO BE VERY SORE ONCE HE HAS PRESSURE OF SHOES ON AND BLOODSHOT LOOKING WHERE NAILBED SHOULD BE., TRYING TO WALK CAREFULLY SO HIS TOES DIDNT HURT HE FELL UPSTAIRS AND NOW GOT SLIGHT CONCUSSION SO BACK OFF SCHOOL. SO 2 DAYS SCHOOL IN 6 MONTHS NOW. GLAD YOUR TOES ARE SCABBING NOW AND NOT SO BAD, AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR. BY THE WAY HE IS NOW CALLING HIMSELF, SCOTTY NO NAILS.
Johanne 07-Jan-2009 14:30
Ah crap. It's morning. I still don't wanna go. Nope, don't wanna go. Isn't someone gonna tell me I don't have to go? I'm leaving in 10 minutes. What if I just went shopping instead?
Johanne 07-Jan-2009 03:44
HEY STEPHANIE!! Can I ever relate! My surgery is scheduled for tomorrow morning and I'm still testing the excuses I want to use to get out of it. Ug! This is the fourth toenail.. the first lost at age 3 riding my trike- ouch.. the second one -deformed because of the damaged nail bed- was removed at age 16. The third one was removed at around age 35 (doctor wiggled it off as there was another one growing underneath) and now it's gotta ago again - having pain under the nail. But this time it's for good.. apparently. I DON'T WANNA GO!! If someone could answer Steph's questions, mine will get answered too.
stephanie 06-Jan-2009 06:52
This surgery looks so scary. YikeS!!! I have to get my toenail removed but am scared to death about it. I have a few questions. Does it hurt when the anesthtic wears off? do you need pain meds for the healing part or does it feel better to just get it out? How long is the intial recovery I am diabetic and a hairdresser. so i need to be on my feet for long periods of time. I wonder how long I will have to book off. How many needles did it take to freeze the sucker??? and did you have a Podiatrist take care of it or a GP??? was it expensive?
JB 05-Jan-2009 04:36
RE: Jasim

I need some more details on what you are actually already have had done and why its not working. Just some more details with your story. Are you the one whose mom has been posting about? I'd be glad to input my opinion but I need some more info.
jasim 05-Jan-2009 00:18
someone please help im a 15 year old boy ive had toe-nail removal many times but it just wont work... ive gone through my fifth one in three years the doc said this time it should work....im hoping it does work but if not i need someone who can put an end to my nightmares!!!
JB 31-Dec-2008 03:54
My toe is finally scabbing. I think its the cold weather here in Illinois is making my healing process a little slower than last time. I'm now wearing just a sock and no covering on the cut anymore. It still feels quite weird. But, that is expected for at least 2-3 more weeks.
Good luck to everyone's toes. And Happy New Year.
Guest 30-Dec-2008 00:30
HI J.B.
HOPE YOUR TOE IS IMPROVING. 11 1/2WEEKS AFTER OP AND SONS TOES NOW LOOKING QUITE GOOD,BEEN LONG SLOW PROCESS,BUT SPECIALIST MADE REAL GOOD JOB, ONLY WHEN LOOKING UP CLOSE U CAN SEE THERE IS NO NAIL. HE HAS HAD SOCKS ON WITH SOFT SLIPPERS FOR 2 DAYS NOW, AND GOING TO TRY NOW TO GET HIM TO WALK WITH SHOES ON FOR SHORT WHILE EACH DAY,TO GET USED TO THEM, SO HE CAN RETURN TO SCHOOL 5TH JANUARY, AS HE HASNT ATTENDED SCHOOL SINCE JULY OWING TO THE PROBLEMS.. GOING TO BE A BIG SHOCK TO HIS SYSTEM, ALTHOUGH HE HAS BEEN DOING SOME WORK AT HOME. THANKS FOR THE ADVICE ONCE AGAIN,AND HOPE YOUR TOE HAS SCABBED OVER SINCE U LAST POSTED.. HOPE U HAD A NICE XMAS AND ALL THE BEST FOR 2009 TO ALL ......
JB 13-Dec-2008 05:06
Re: Guest..

I hope your son's toe is feeling better. I know its not a fun process. But its been 6 weeks today and my toe is still having trouble getting a scab going this time for some odd reason. I do not know why. Still a little draing but not getting a scab. I thought I had a scab going pretty good on my other toe by this time frame last time. I have not had any pain or infection with this one either. I hope I get a scab going soon. I cannot wait until this thing heals. Good luck and God Bless everyone.
Guest 08-Dec-2008 23:03
TO J.B AND OTHERS WHO COMMENTED ON MY 15YR OLD SON.
AS POSTED BEFORE OPERATED ON 10TH OCTOBER, HAVE NOW FOUND OUT HEALING IS TAKING LONGER AS PARTS OF BONE MISSING ON TOES DUE TO GENETIC SYNDROME, WHICH MEANS TOES WERE MOVING AND DISTURBING THE SCABBING OVER.SCAB HAS FINALLY CAME OF AND GOT GO AHEAD TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL TODAY, SO 7TH DECEMBER IS 1ST TIME HE HAD A SHOE ON SINCE JUNE. HE WAS GIVEN GEL COVERS TO PUT ON TOES TO STOP PRESSURE OF SOFT SHOE, BUT AFRAID GOING TO HAVE TO CONTACT PODIATRIST TOMORROW AS NAILBEDS ARE BRIGHT RED, WITH SWEAT COMING OUT OF TOES AND LOOK AS IF SIDE IS SPLITTING YET AGAIN. SO 9 WEEKS LATER VERY SLOWLY GETTING THERE. HAVE JUST BEEN SOAKING TWICE DAILY IN SOLUTION OF SALT WATER AND LETTING AIR GET TO THEM,AND KEEPING HIM OFF HIS FEET AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE APPARENTLY THE BEST WAY TO HEAL THEM (UNLESS YOU ARE OUTSIDE OBVIOUSLY)....MY THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO COMMENTED, BUT OTHERS PLEASE DO NOT GO BY THIS CASE, ITS A COMPLICATED ONE, NOT THE NORMAL CASE OF REMOVAL DUE TO OTHER GENETIC FACTORS WHICH MAKES ALL OPERATIONS ON MY SON MUCH MORE COMPLEX THAN OTHER CASES.....ONCE AGAIN. THANKS FOR THE ADVICE.SORRY FOR NOT REPLYING BEFORE BUT HE DID TAKE SPECIALIST TO HIS WORD IN KEEPING OFF HIS FEET, MUM CAN U GET ME THIS, THAT THE NEXT THING, SO BEEN REAL BUSY. WILL CHANGE THOUGH ONCE TOES GET BETTER.!!!!!!
bryguy 08-Dec-2008 05:08
hey guys. how do you feel a bout your toenails now? does anyone not really go barefoot now?
Guest 30-Nov-2008 22:05
Stubby- Toes are not the same as fingers. Toes are kept in dark ,warm, moist, and sometimes dirty environments- socks and shoes. These are breeding places for fungus and bacteria. Also, the pressure from shoes and walking can slow healing or injure the area. That makes the care instruction for toes very different than fingers.
Stubby 30-Nov-2008 01:50
Hello,

In May i got my left thumbnail permanently removed with phenol. I had a bandage for the first 2 days after the surgery. After this i used normal band aid for covering the nailbed, when being at work. In the evening i did not wear a band aid in order to let as much air as possible to the wound. There was also no advise to soak the finger twice a day. Normal washing and cleaning was enough.
The cosmetical result after a little bit more than 7 month is very good.
In about 3 weeks ther will be removed the right thumbnail. And next year the remaining fingernails will be removed permanently hand by hand.
marie 26-Nov-2008 22:18
Stefanie-
I had my toenail permanently removed in July. Mine got infected also. Why doesn't the doctor want you to change your bandage? I dealt with 2 different podiatrists, and one told me to leave it open, the other told me to keep it covered. But both agreed that I should soak it twice a day in warm water and peroxide or epsom salt , then apply neosporin or amerigel. I did what felt right to me, I covered it sometimes, but left it open wheever I could. It oozed a little but I just kept an eye on it. I felt it was important to see it everyday to know what was happening under the bandage. I didn't have any stitches, so I don't know if that makes any difference. Did the doctor give you any reason why you couldn't take care of it yourself? Why don't you call his office and tell the nurse your concerns? Ask if there is any reason you shouldn't soak it and rebandage it yourself? Are you on your feet a lot? Socks and shoes might make a difference too, they are hot and constricting. I was lucky to have it done in the summer, I wore open-toed shoes the entire time. Good luck and take care.
chuck 25-Nov-2008 23:11
I am a diabetic and scheduled to have my big toe nail removed 11 dec 2008. Aretheri any diabtics that have had tis done. My doctor doesnt think this is anuy big deal.
bryguy 25-Nov-2008 15:58
why did you guys have your toenails removed?
Stefanie 25-Nov-2008 08:11
ooops.. noticed error on my msg. started taking antibiotics the day of my consultation because the ingrown nail was infected. The Dr had me continue this med and even prescribed 10 more days for after the surgery. When i went back after a few dressing changes and toe was starting to throb all over again, thats when Dr. noticed infection was not clearing up and I was possibly allergic to it. This is when I started a new antibiotic. Thanks!
Stefanie 25-Nov-2008 08:06
I had a partial toenail removal that required 4 stitches afterwards. Had the surgery on Nov 17th. I went back the next day to have the dressings changed and to make sure my toe was healing properly. Went back again 2 days later for the same ritual. By the next week, my toe was hurting worse with throbbing and burning sensations only when I layed or sat down. Went back to Dr. and found that my toe was infected so started antibiotics. Had reaction to antibiotic and infection was not clearing up so Dr. started me on new antibiotic. Was doing great but now seems like the throbbing is starting to come back when sitting/laying with the poor circulation feeling. My toe has been bandaged (with 4 changes of dressings) during this time but has been constantly wrapped with the gauze and tape. My question for everyone is this: Why does my toe have to stay wrapped the entire time? Doesnt that slow the healing process down or is there specific reasons as to why it needs to stay wrapped? I dont like the fact that I cant see whats happening with my toe. How do I know its healing? Please give me any input you can! curious if I should see another Podiatrist or my PCP to get a 2nd opinion. My dr. is on vacation now due to the Thanksgiving holiday coming up. Cant I just change my dressings daily myself instead of waiting for the Dr? I know its a lot of questions but there isnt really a lot of information online regarding my specific questions. Thanks!! Stefanie
Guest 24-Nov-2008 02:28
I'd keep putting it on until it's all healed up. Mine appeared scabbed, but there was one little open crack that got infected. Believe me , you don't want that!
lANCE 20-Nov-2008 23:23
I had my big toenail removed 3 weeks ago. How long do you still put on neo sporion on for.
Guest 20-Nov-2008 05:16
She first started this site in 2006, that new picture is to show the progress since then.
JB 15-Nov-2008 05:14
I cannot believe this lady, I-Bliss or whoever started this page...how did her toe look that good in just around a months time. That is pretty amazing or untrue.
Guest 12-Nov-2008 12:51
P.T.
Hello Guys,
My stitches were removed yesterday, an hour battle – was as painful as I expected, the doc had to cut them through the skin which was formed over them, my poor toes were covered with dry blood.. Now I just have to soak them daily in water and salt and keep them dry. This Sunday I am going back to work as I now walk pain free. I have to say all these non adhering dressings and topical sprays that I have to buy are so expensive…!
Guest from JHB South Africa 12-Nov-2008 11:27
Hi everyone, i just recently had my big toenail removed. my nail wasnt growing and it was pussing all the time and when the nail was removed, the podiatrist found another nail growing behind my cuticle underneath the skin. wierdest thing i have ever seen (not that i could look at it) never mind heard of! anyway its been about a week now and its definitly not as painful as the days after the surgery. but there is this white looking skin that is at the base of my nail bed and i wanted to know if that is the scarring process beginning? this whole thing freaks me out but the pressure has relieved so much since the removal!
Gina B 12-Nov-2008 00:54
Hi All,
I had my big and second toenails removed on thursday Nov, 6th, I drive school bus and only missed the next morning., mostly out of fear. It is now
tuesday Nov 11th and I have not had any pain to speak of. Sore like I stubbed them.
I soak twice daily in water and salt 2 tbl to a qt of water, and take aleve. I cover them with neosporin and a bandaid.
My doc said 1 in 20 grow back partially. 6 week healing time.
I wear sneakers with the toes cut out. But Im Just about ready to put my regular sneakers back on. I actually wore them the first 2 days when the big bandages were on. I also bowled on Sat night.
Best thing I ever did.
painfree!! 10-Nov-2008 01:59
P.T. I did not have total nail cell removal. I guess I should count my blessings. In about 4 months I should start to see some sort of growth coming back in. Good luck with your situation. You are right, there is not much help from any kind of pain killers, or over the counters. If you keep your foot up for long, when you put it down, everthing just rushes back to the toe. I am thankfull for this website, it offered me some comfort when I was really worried about the pain. Soak in salty water when you can, and I hope that you will get some relief soon.!
Guest 09-Nov-2008 11:26
P.T.
Painfree. The stitches are all along the Nail Groove and Eponychium. The Nail Matrix or the meaty surface under the Nail Plate is exposed, it will take 2 to 3 weeks until some skin will be formed. How did they remove the nail plate in your case? I have heard that if Phenol is used it takes more time for it to heal because of the burn. After the stitches will be removed I will need to soak them in salty water every day.
painfree!! 08-Nov-2008 22:31
P.T. I didn't get any stitches. I couldn't image putting up with that. 5 days now, I'm still having some throbbing, and a little bit of pain. Just soaking it in hydrogen peroxide, and 15 minutes of epson salt water. Are the stiches on the cuticle bed?
painfree!! 08-Nov-2008 22:27
P.T. Stitches? I didn't get any stitches. And today, 5 days after the removal, I am still having the throbbing and a little bit of pain. But soaking the toe in hydrogen peroxide, and then 15 minutes in epson salt water is really keeping the open wound clean. Other than that I wear a band-aid to keep it clean. Good luck with the stiches. I couldn't image having to put up with that.
Guest 08-Nov-2008 18:38
P.T.
to PAINFREE.
I had a lot of pain the next day after surgery – the pain killers didn’t help even when I doubled the dose! But now 9 days post surgery I feel much more comfortable with my feet while walking, of course I’m very careful so that I don’t bang my foot on anything.
This coming Wednesday the stitches will be removed …god help me..
painfree!! 07-Nov-2008 19:32
The whole FOOT was extremely swollen.
painfree!! 07-Nov-2008 19:31
I just had my big toenail removed 3 days ago because of an injury to the toe. Afterwards, the whole was extremely swollen, and in alot of pain. Motrin did not help at all. I took Tylenol PM at night, and slept with my foot up, swelling went down, and pain is going away!!!
bryguy 07-Nov-2008 15:17
yeah i mean it is something to be embarrassed to be barefoot.
Guest 07-Nov-2008 09:41
TO BRYGUY
I’m a girl. Yes, I tried all sort of medication but I have been suffering with fungus for more than 10 years and it’s said that once the fungus get under the nail plate you never will be able to get rid of it. My nails got so much deformed and painful. I was quite conscious about my feet every time I had to wear an open shoe. Only a person who has got this problem can understand. After all to prevent the fungus spreading to other toes I now removed the nails permanently. Hope that after the healing process I will be able to glue some fake nails ( still don’t have much info on that either) every time I have to expose my feet in public. I would like to ask the visitors of this site to post more info and personal experiences with their toenails – it is so nice to know you are not the only one.
SharonR06-Nov-2008 20:52
Also has anyone tried to use the false toe nails, how do you glue them on?
SharonR06-Nov-2008 20:49
Hi its SharonR again, just to say that the video of the toenail removal on UTube was disgusting, I couldn't look when I had mine removed, but god its horrid.........
bryguy 06-Nov-2008 19:46
to the guy with the toenail fungus.. why did you have them removed? did you try medication? did you go barefoot when you had the toenail fungus?
JB 03-Nov-2008 21:58
Re Guest:
I was replying to the poster with the 15 year old son. I just had my last big toe removal on friday. So I've been there done that. Its a slow process. It took my last toe around 6-8 weeks to heal. Here are my suggestions. Just soak once a day with an antibacterial soap with warm water for 20 minutes. Then let air dry. Put a little neo sporion on but do not glob it. At night if you can after around a few weeks. Let it air dry as much as possible. Even at night. The more air it gets..I believe the faster it heals. My toe oozed for at least 6 weeks.
Good luck to your son. Stick with the one soaking every day and air dry as much as possible.
SharonR02-Nov-2008 21:04
Hi, I had my toenail on my right foot, I felt too that the most painful bit was the injections, I am now in my 4th week, my toe is oozing a little and I also had this whitish skin growing around the top I am keeping it dressed each day, I was told just to bathe it in salt water every day and to redress it until the scab arrives, it's taking forever, but have read most of these comments and they have given me alot of good advice so thanks and here's to the healing process, looks like I will be like this for at least another 2 months or so!
Guest 02-Nov-2008 02:35
Mine got infected also, the pain was awful. My doctor and nurses couldn't agree on my after care either. I soaked mine at least 2x a day and left it open as often as I could. Keep antibiotic cream or Amerigel on it. I wouldn't leave it covered for more than 8 to 12 hours, you need to see what is happening with that wound, especially if your son isn't feeling the pain. I'm no doctor obviously, but I just went through it and I hope this helps.
Guest 01-Nov-2008 19:14
HI,CAN ANYONE ADVISE PLEASE. 15YR OLD SON HAD BOTH BIG TOENAILS REMOVED AND NAILBED KILLED SO SHOULDNT GROW BACK 21 DAYS AGO.NAILBED ON 1 WAS INFECTED BEFORE OP AND HAD JUST FINISHED ANTIBIOTICS. 2 DAYS AFTER OP NURSES CAME TO CHANGE DRESSINGS AND BOTH TOES INFECTED, ANTIBIOTICS GIVEN, STILL NO BETTER, STARTED YET ANOTHER COURSE. CONFLICTING ADVICE ON HOW TO HEAL THEM. DO THEY PUT INADENE PATCHES, PLASTERS AND BANDAGES EVERY 2 DAYS, OR SHOULD I GO WITH OWN INSTINCTS AND SOAK, CLEAN AND LET AIR GET TO THEM AND PUT THE BANDAGES ON AT NIGHT TO HELP PROTECT.THEY ARE OOZING, SMELL, RED ETC .HE FEELS NO PAIN. THIS MAYBE BECAUSE SON HAS A RARE GENETIC SYNDROME AND DOES NOT FEEL PAIN LIKE WE DO. VERY HIGH PAIN THRESHOLD..ADVICE WOULD BE APPRECIATED. MANY THANKS
Guest 29-Oct-2008 19:49
Thanks for setting up this web page.

I had my toe nail removed due to injury and it has been 3.5 weeks now and it is just starting to feel normal. Still can not wear socks without a band-aid or take a shower without a band-aid on.

Amerigel and Saline Solution wash were both very helpful for me.
Guest 25-Oct-2008 19:57
Hi, all. I had right big toe nail permanently removed 2 years ago and it grew back ....grrr. Anyway 8 weeks ago had both left and right permanently removed again. This time I think they managed to kill the nail. Right toe is nearly healed, just the tiniest of scabs but the left is taking ages, 8 weeks in and I'm having to put iodine dressings back on it for a few days. Oh well we'll get there in the end. To anyone having the op the worse part is the injection in the toe.
Guest 25-Oct-2008 02:43
army wife-
The pain wasn't really that bad- my doc didn't give me any pain killers. Don't try to wear closed-toed shoes for quite a while. Take good care of it, and be careful not to bump it. The pain isn't really the issue, it's just a major inconvience.
real_army_wife 23-Oct-2008 02:35
Hi! I am having my grand toenail removed on Friday due to the fact that it is ingrown, full of fungus, it is curved and is infected. They prescribed me antibiotics for the infection. How long did it take before you can walk comfortably? I have 4 kids (1 is 4 months old) and I have to be on my feet a lot. My husband is in the military so I don't have anyone around to help out. I am also worried about pain relief after wards. Do they prescribe pain killers? Knowing the military health care they probably tell me to take some Motrin. I hope not, or I may chicken out completely! Thanks!
mouse22-Oct-2008 17:38
Thank you so much for having this posted... I had my big toenail permanently removed yesterday afternoon and looking over this and reading all the comments before having it done really helped.
As for my experience... it wasn't really all that bad. The worst thing about it was the shots in the toe, those really stung... but other than that I haven't had much pain... The podiatrist I went to see didn't use the Phenol or the silver nitrate that others talk about.. he actually used a laser and burned the nail bed so the nail doesn't come back...From start to finish, I was in there for no more than 30 minutes, and 15 of that was spent on the paperwork..
bryguy 16-Oct-2008 19:35
are you going to try fake toenails?
Marie 15-Oct-2008 01:07
I must correct my last comment- it's been 3 months since I had my nail removed, and the scab just came off. It's a long process.
Marie 15-Oct-2008 01:02
To imjustme26, The white skin, does it hurt? It's probably just dead skin. When I had mine removed, there was a layer of dead-looking white skin over it for quite a while before it finally scabbed up. If it were infected, you'd know- it gets very painful and red. Keep it clean and soak it. If you do leave it uncovered as it starts to scab, be very careful- you can lose your scab so easily. It will take a long time to completely heal up. Wearing open- toed shoes as much as possible will help. It's been 2 months since I had mine removed, and the last of the scab just came off yesterday. Hang in there.
bryguy 14-Oct-2008 15:46
why did you have yours taken off? how old are you and where from?
imjustme2610-Oct-2008 20:06
I had both big toenails removed on Oct. 2. The procedure went well. I'm just concerned about the white skin around the area where the toenail used to be. I'm not sure if its because my skin needs to air out or or if its from where the Phenol killed the surrounding skin. I need some advice.
bryguy 10-Oct-2008 14:06
hey guys. what up. how are the toes?
bryguy 25-Sep-2008 18:39
have any of you guys had toenail fungus?
Guest 25-Sep-2008 06:11
I am having this procedure done tomorrow on both big toes, and after reading the comments I am scared to death. I have neuropathy in my legs and my feet- I can hardly touch my own feet, much less having other people touch them and plus needles-I am screwed!!!!
guest 25-Sep-2008 05:10
I would not count on wearing closed toed shoes for a while. It's been 8 weeks for me, and I still haven't attempted it. I'm lucky that I can wear sandels to work, but I wouldn't have had a choice for the first month @ least. Mine did get infected, even though I took very good care of it. I thought that the "natural crust from the seepage" was protecting mine too, but there was a small "crack" in the scab at the bottom where bacteria got in. Even on the Hydrocodone, I couldn't stand the pain of the infection, it was worse than the shots the numb it. All I can say is that if I'd known how much trouble this was going to be, I never would've had it permanently removed. Now I only have a small scab left, and I'm not touching it. The sooner this is over, the better. I definately agree, this "little procedure" can turn out to be a much bigger pain then anyone leads you to believe it will be. If you have a choice- don't have it removed at all.
Guest 20-Sep-2008 16:03
Hi, I have to get my toenail removed for a biopsy. I am very scared! I have a career fair to attend the day after. Should I reschedule the toenail removal until the week after so that I can wear proper dress shoes to the job fair? I also can't afford to not work, which requires me to wear closed toed shoes, will three days be enough to at least be able to work for a few hours? Thanks.
Guest 18-Sep-2008 21:46
I had partial nail surgery on both my right and left big toes a few months ago but they are still very painfull and uncomfortable. Should i have them permanently removed?
Guest 17-Sep-2008 18:26
I just had this done for permenant removal 6 days ago. The numbing shots hurt and the nerve endings hurt, for about an hour, when they woke up. But after that not a single pain, except for touching it, like with the sheets. Do you think he forgot to put the stuff on that would kill the nail for good? My Dr. told me to leave the bandage on for 3 days and then soak it off in epsom salt. This was a little painful because the gauze was stuck to the toe. I finally just ripped the little bit off that was sticking and it hurt for about 30 min until I realized I'd mixed the epsom salt formula wrong so I briefly stuck my toe in water to remove the extra salt, and was fine. Then he told me I could take normal showers and not to put anything on the toe (I could put a bandage on it but he recommended not). After the first three days I've just been wearing open toed heels and aside from the seepage haven't had any pain problems. I think if you wore socks and soaked your toes you are just adding more trauma to them making the healing process longer. I painted all my toenails a dark red to match the wounds color and not a soul has noticed. The seepage crusts over to create it's own natural healing barrier for the wound so I try to disturb that as little as possible. For the person who mentioned the problem with the sheets touching their toe. . .I put a pillow at the bottom of the bed, under the sheets, to create a little tent. Works wonders until I turn over onto my stomach.
Guest 16-Sep-2008 22:02
Had this procedure done as a teen many years ago. I started using the fake toe nails (using crazy glue) which works pretty good. I am always looking for new solutions and have since heard of this procedure of tatooing?? Does anyone know about this or have any pics or result stories?
bryguy 11-Sep-2008 17:47
whats goin on guys? how are the toes?
Darlene 01-Sep-2008 16:36
I had a partial permanent toenail removal. On my left big toe, the podiatrist performed a permanent removal of the left and right side of the toe leaving the center intact. I didn't know this could be done. Had it done on the 30th. I seemto be having a problem, though. Most of my toe is still numb! It feels like the anesthetic is still there on the left and right side of the actual toe even though the nailbed area is"awake". Anyone have this occurr? Do I just wait for it to wear off? Its been 4 days...Thanks
Kristy 31-Aug-2008 19:49
Hi all...I had my big toe nail removed 2 weeks ago. I had slammed my foot in a door years back and damaged the nail bed. The toe nail was not completely connected and I kept getting funal infections. The shots were not that painful and the procedure itself was rather quick. I was surprised at how painful the recovery was though. I do not think of myself as a baby...but it really hurt! After about a week I noticed that the toe and foot was getting red and swollen. I called my doc and she immed. put me on a course of Keflex. After one day on the medicine I noticed a green pussy discharge oozing from the incision site. My doc said that it was a staff infection and had to debreed the whole toe. It seems to be getting better now, but after 2 weeks of not being able to work (I'm in the restaurant business) this "little" procedure was much more than I bargained for!
bryguy 24-Aug-2008 17:59
so some of you guys hide your toes too.. yeah its something.. as a guy though not sure fake nails will work for me.
Marie 21-Aug-2008 04:25
I saw my doctor today, and now she's telling me to keep it covered. When they just told me last week to leave it open or it won't heal! I really wish these people would make up their minds!
Anyway, I've done more research on the whole tattoo thing, and I don't think I want to do it. What little information I could find just pertained to tattooing feet. This is rarely done because it fades off to quickly, and it poses such a high risk of infection. Also, are so many nerves in the nailbed that you would definately need a doctor to numb it first. I can't imagine going though the healing time again, and chancing another infection. I guess I will just paint the nailbed when it heals. I hope this helps anyone else wondering about tattooing the nailbed. I'd still like to hear from someone whose had it done.
Guest 17-Aug-2008 20:56
Marie

I think most of us are looking for the same thing and finding limited infornmation or none at all. Just got my first tattoo at age %^(lol) .My tatto artist does not have expierience with nail bed tattoos so I am searching for info as you are. So sick of hiding my big toes at the beach! It is nice to know we are not alone... Hopefuly we can share anything we learn here.

Reader
Guest 17-Aug-2008 20:48
Hey Red could we please get an update ,maybe some pictures?

Thanks Reader
Jennifer 14-Aug-2008 04:20
Marie, my doctor told me to keep my toes covered! and to avoid pet hairs.
jennifer 14-Aug-2008 04:11
I'm the "guest" who has the photobucket and talked about the fake nails, etc.

I see the doctor tomorrow and I'm hoping he will say that I can leave the bandages off. I'm very tired of the entire soaking and bandaging routine. I'm hoping he says I can allow the toes to scab. It does not feel good removing the scabs at all. It's been nearly a month now. I'm feeling cranky with all of it. I miss my hot tub. wah, wah, i know.
bryguy, I saw, at Walmart, completely natural looking nails. no white tips, no shiny finishes--they are completely natural. Would be great for a man. I finally figured out how to trim my french pedicure nails to make them look better.

Anyway, I wanted to have the nails on my right foot removed asap, but my left foot is taking so long to heal, more than likely I'll wait til next summer.

Question for everyone/anyone: how long before you could wear closed-toed shoes?
Marie 14-Aug-2008 03:55
Has anybody seen a tattooed nailbed? I had my left grand nail permanently removed 13 days ago, and I would like to tattoo a "fake" nail there when it heals up. I've posted this question on tattoo sites and I've gotten no replies. Can it be done, and will a doctor numb you for this?
Also, mine is infected- even though I took very good care of it! The doctor tells me to keep it uncovered, but it 's still seaping and painful. It feels (and looks) better if I cover it. Did you guys leave yours open in public at this stage? I work on my feet in public. I can wear my open-toed sandels, but I'm afraid that it will get bumped and that it will ooze all over my foot. Is it really that important for me to leave it open all the time?
bryguy 12-Aug-2008 15:04
hey guys. where is everyone? how are the toes doing?
Guest 05-Aug-2008 16:55
This message is for RED ........I would like to see a picture of the tattooed nailbeds, I was thinking of doing it. I wanted to see how it would look.
thanks for your help! :)
bry 27-Jul-2008 16:56
that statement you said. about what your friend said about your image.. while that is not something that should be said i dont think. that is kind of how i feel about it.. i mean.. if people were to see your toenails... but that is just me.
Jenny 26-Jul-2008 19:47
Also, forgot to add that my nurse gave me four needles, which I thought may be why my toe is swelling. What do you guys think?
Jenny 26-Jul-2008 19:45
I had a partial toenail removal 3 days ago. The actual incision area doesnt really hurt that much, but my entire big toe is still swollen, normal skin color, but a little warm when touched. There is also a sensation of pressure in my toe when I stand. How long is the swelling supposed to last in the entire toe area? As I said its been three days so far/
Guest 26-Jul-2008 00:17
I've seen the fake nails at both Walmart and Walgreen.

If you want to see my nails, go to photobucket. com and search for jenjem. Tried to link it here, but it wouldn't allow it.

It IS tough to hide your feet at the pool, etc. In fact, I was told once--after a friend had seen my toenails for the first time--"my image of you has been ruined". That hurt a bit.

Went to the doc today, got in trouble a little for going out unbandaged and because they're too scabby. No scabs at this point because the nail beds need to drain. Ick!
bryguy 25-Jul-2008 03:37
where did you purchase these nails? i did not see the photos. not sure what a photobucket is. tough to have to hide your feet.... would really like to try the nails if they would work and look somewhat cool.
Guest 25-Jul-2008 01:47
I had the nails on my left foot removed a week ago. Oh my, having an entire foot done is so much worse than a single nail, which I've had done as well. At this rate, it'll be months before I'm healed. My doctor gave the instructions to soak twice a day in white vinegar and water and then clean with peroxide and a thin coat of neosporin.

I've had fungus nails since age 4. It stared on three nails and then moved to all 10 by the time I was 14. My body couldn't tolerate the oral meds. In my later teens I had both big toenails removed one at a time--permanently, only there was a small amount of regrowth of something on both big toes.

My nails were not even nails really--something nasty-- they looked like the most hideous nails you'll see if you do an image search of "fungus toenails". I would rather be nailless than have those monster growths on my toes.

bryguy, I'm female, but I understand the embarrassement. I've dealt with it all my life. In my case, it's best--and less embarrassing--to have no nails. I plan on wearing flipflops and sandals once the nails on my other foot are removed. The fake toenails would be fine for guys, I think. I currently have the french manicure on my right foot to cover up the fungus nails. If you'll look at my photobucket, there are 3 pics there of my feet. One is my nailless (and bloody) foot. The other is the fake nails. If you'll notice, the white tips on the fake nails are really too long. They could easily be cut off to look like a natural nail for a guy. AND the kit includes large man-size nails.

The photobucket is jenjem
Guest 24-Jul-2008 22:31
I had my left toe nail permanently removed on the 18th. Its sore and I noticed today that there is more seepage than there has been before. I'm using drops that were prescribed by my doc and still soaking with epsom salt twice a day for ten mins. Does anyone know when this soreness will go away and how much longer I will have to wear a bandaide around my stupid toe its making me crazy!
Guest 24-Jul-2008 22:25
I had my left toe nail permanently removed on the 18th. Its sore and I noticed today that there is more seepage than there has been before. I'm using drops that were prescribed by my doc and still soaking with epsom salt twice a day for ten mins. Does anyone know when this soreness will go away and how much longer I will have to wear a bandaide around my stupid toe its making me crazy!
bryguy 24-Jul-2008 22:18
do any guys wear open toed sandals? or have any tried the fake nails?
Bren 23-Jul-2008 01:08
To: Nailless:

You stated that you sand your toes after you shower. Why they are still in the "soft" stage? Does this seem to do better than sanding when they are dryer looking? This is the way I've been doing and it doesn't seem to last as long. Thanks for your help!
Guest 22-Jul-2008 05:44
This is maybe the grossest site I've ever come across. I knew there was a reason I didn't watch my own surgery (kidding aside-you did a great job putting it together)! That said...I had my big toenails removed about 5 years ago, a few months apart. The 1st time was better than the 2nd. 1st toe, usual seepage, pain, slow healing. In general, much better off than before surgery. By the way, I'd had this weird thing going on where my big toenails would curl in at the sides. They were thick and painful, I swear, even if the sheets fell on them at night! Not until recently did I find out that 3 of my 4 aunts have the same problem. My mother had also had hers removed so when my 2nd surgery was excrutiating and I could get no relief from the pain I called to ask her advise and was horrified when she told me to soak in epsom salt. It just sounds cruel to rub salt in a wound. I tried it. I was right. I think my Dr. used some kind of "silver" to burn the bed and maybe that had a reaction to the salt. Perhaps that's why he was rather harsh the next day when he reminded me that HE had never told me to soak it in ANYTHING. So if your dr. doesn't tell you to do that, there is probably a reason. Sounds like Dreft would have been the way to go! I can ramble, huh!
Anyway, my nail beds are not at all flat and are actually a bit concave. Fake nails look great if I can get them to stick. What's up with this tattoo thing? Where do you find a dr. who will give you a shot in the toe so you can get a tattoo? My nail beds still have that"weird" feeling if I scratch on them so I can't imagine getting a tattoo without one. Red, you gotta post those pics!! That sounds like a cool idea!
Cathy 19-Jul-2008 06:16
5th week and big toes are stilll painful..gaoing to try dreft soak tonight. Everyone who has used it seems to like it very well. Was suppose to keep wrapping them up in this rally fluffy bandage that would soak up any leakage. This is the time my doc said to bandage it once a day and leave it open at night. Am still getting clear fluid seapage. Thought the tissue that comes from having the second degree burns were another toe nail til I took them off with a q-tip. This has been a great place to check on other people and their experiences.
Louisiana Lady 18-Jul-2008 05:08
I had all 10 toenails removed over 6 weeks ago. I had no problems for the first 3 weeks--no pain (to speak of) and healing well enough to get discharged. Then they got inflamed and sore. They are still that way. The big toes appear not to be healing. I am not diabetic and have good circulation, so Podiatrist is stumped. Got second opinion from wound care doctor. He had no suggestions either. My treatment was soaking twice daily with epsom salts and neosporin-plus cream. Discontinued, then restarted. I also used cortosporin ear drops on my nail beds. I took 2 rounds of antibiotics. I am now taking cortisone pack. Glad I found this site. Will try soaking in Dreft instead of epsom salts and will try to find Amerigel. I am discouraged. It all started out so well. Thanks to all for sharing.
taye17-Jul-2008 22:00
my 13 year old son as problem with ingrown toenails, 9 days ago he had the sides removed from his right toenail..His toe looks nasty . How long does it take for a toe to heal from this?
bryguy 17-Jul-2008 15:00
any of you guys wearing open toed shoes?
Guest 17-Jul-2008 06:54
This is my first experience with infected ingrown toenail,etc. first and hopefully last time have this procedure, I had no idea that the big toe could hurt and get so infected and I also watched the surgery or procedure. It was cool, but the nerve block felt weird but only had two shots. it is the second day after the procedure and have no clue what to expect when i go in to the office tomorrow and he removes the dressing. It still hurts like hell at times, feels like the worst toothache i can imagine, but have good medicine that usually helps.Thank you for taking time to take the pictures,with explanations. It made me feel my doctor did it right and fair.I hope my heals like yours did. thanks.
bryguy 09-Jul-2008 22:52
how old are you Scott.. and where from?
Scott 08-Jul-2008 16:42
Well my toes have dried up very nice. All i had to do was go a couple of days without having them covered and now all the pain is GONE. In fact i went to the beach on Saturday and got sand all over but i was able to just rub them clean. Last week i could not even touch them!!!
Claire 06-Jul-2008 07:53
I've also been told to heel-walk by the nurses, when will I be able to walk comfortable again? On one of the letters I received it said not to do any long distance walking for 2 weeks, but 2 weeks heel-walking I don't think I can cope with, I look a bit silly dragging myself up the stairs backwards :P
Claire 05-Jul-2008 20:10
I had my big toenail removed yesterday due to an infection. It's been bleeding slightly but I've had no pain. Will I get any pain? When will it kick in if so? Also, I've got to have the bandages changed on Monday, how painful is this??
Guest 05-Jul-2008 19:49
Hey Scott.. where you been.. any of you guys going barefoot yet? email tbud4258@aol.com.
JB 05-Jul-2008 18:36
RE: Janice
I had my right big toe nail removed 3 months ago. Its completely healed. It took around 2 months for the toe to heal. I'd say..after the 3 weeks...go to just one soaking for 15-20 minutes a day. Let it air dry as much as possible. You probably have around 3-4 more weeks before its pretty much healed. My toe still feels weird when putting on a sock or in the shower. Not a pain but kind of a weird feeling..can't really explain it. My other big toe is getting bad again b/c of the fungus..so I'll probably be under the knife pretty soon as well.
Red 04-Jul-2008 03:57
Update on my tattooed nailbeds. Today is day 2 the lidocane has worn off, believe it not the tattooed part doesnt even hurt. What is bothering me the most is where the Dr. put the shots in my toes to numb them. After they are all healed and I can get a pedicure again I will try to post pics. So happy with them!!
JANICE04-Jul-2008 00:58
i HAD A HURTING TOE FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS AND WENT TO PODIATRIST WHO TOLD ME IT WAS NAIL FUNGUS!!! YUK HIS ONLY 'REMEDY' WAS TO 1)REMOVE THE NAIL ALTOGETHER
2) TAKE A MEDICINE THAT IS VERY EXPENSIVE AND CAN DAMAGE MY LIVER
SO, I TOOK DOOR #1 AND NOW I FEAR I NEED ANOTHER TOENAIL TAKEN OFF...THE ONE NEXT TO THE FIRST :(
btw, THE PHOTOS SHOWING THE TOENAIL REMOVAL ARE QUITE ACURRATE, THOUGH I CLOSED MY EYES FOR THE ACTUAL DIGGING OUT OF THE NAIL.
PODIATRIST SAID TO SOAK TOE TWICE A DAY FOR 2 WEEKS AND APPLY THIS CREAM HE PRESCCRIBED. IT'S BEEN NEARLY 3 WEEKS, NOW WHAT?
Nailless 03-Jul-2008 12:49
I had all my toe nails removed completley and 8 where done last Sept 2007. I asked my family doctor how ot take care of them since the removal and healing had been competed.
THey have only skin layers on them and sometimes are a bit rough. Well his reply was the only thing that can be done now it to lightly sand them off. So after a shower when the beds are softer and still a bit damp I takea sanding tool I purchased from AVON and lightl sand the toes where the nail once was. THen sometimes after that it done I apply a good hand lotion to the beds. This makes them softer and feel better after the sanding.
Proud of my toes and yes I do wear flip flops and sandles in Public and my toes do show and I allow them to be in the air as much as they like. :)
Red 03-Jul-2008 01:55
Well I did it today. I got my nailbeds tattooed today!! So far they are great, my toes are totally numb. Im sure they will be hurtin tomorrow. But I Love it they look awesome!!!
Kevin 01-Jul-2008 15:17
I had my left big toenail permanently removed yesterday. I had been in about 3 weeks ago to remove an ingrown portion of the nail. Well, it wasn't growing in right still so I opted to just have it taken permanently off.

Nearly a year ago I had stubbed my toe something awful on the vacuum cleaner and lifted the nail 3/4 of the way off. Went to CareNow and had it taken off the rest of the way (THAT WAS BRUTAL, because the Dr was horrible). The nail was growing back very thick and was starting to grow into my skin at the top, hence I had it just taken off. Dr told me my options were to just kill it so it doesnt come back or to see if it would come back normal. He said that is EXTREMELY rare and I didn't want to go through this AGAIN so I opted for permanent removal (I am not a very vain person, not worried about looks of it).

Operation was done last night about 5:30. This Dr is AWESOME about the pain. He sprays a VERY cold liquid on the skin to numb it before he gives you two small shots in the toe. He waits about 10 minutes for those shots to take effect and then comes in and gives the big ones which you don't even feel at all due to the first two injections. 15-20 minutes later and we're taking the nail off and I feel nothing.

This morning my toe was still completely numb so I took advantage of that and changed the dressing for the first time. Wow, I can't believe how much it bled last night! But everything looks as good as I can expect. He is having me change the dressing twice a day and cleaning it with saline solution and putting AmeriGel on the wound for a week and then once a day after that. I go back in tomorrow for a "whirlpool" which he says speeds healing. That should be "interesting".

I'll keep y'all updated!
Cathy 30-Jun-2008 22:18
My doc said not to use Drift and that I would have to use bandages the entire time my toes were healing. How exactly do you use the Drift? I'm getting awlfully tired of putting these big bandages on.
Guest 30-Jun-2008 22:04
Red

cCn you please post back how the tattooing goes ,I really want to have this done also. Good luch

Reader
Scott 30-Jun-2008 18:38
BRYGUY Thanks for asking.
Well, I go back today for my 3 week check up. My toes still are very sensitive. In fact i can't even touch them. It looks like i may have a infection on my left toe. It is leaking yellow fluid that gets hard over night when i let them air dry. I almost didn't go back to the Dr. because 2 weeks ago when i went in the pain was so bad i told myself i will not go back. But with the infection and all i guess i will have to be a man about it and go have them looked at. Does anyone else have pain after 3 - 4 weeks? It is so bad i have to cover them when i take a shower because the drops of water when they hit my toes are very painful. Scott
Mary 29-Jun-2008 06:59
I had both my big toenails removed last week. The removal went fine. The pain medicene lasted through the surgery. My question is when is the pain going to go away? I developed infection in both toes. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and am on a medicene that suppresses the immune system so I'm having real trouble healing. My doctor put me on Cipro and Augmentin but they still don't seem to be healing. I am on dalatti, vicodin and darvocet. I try to take a different one every 6 hours but nothing seems to work. The pain is really bad. I tried to soak my feet in epsom salts but it seemed to make them worse. Does anybody have any suggestions?
Linda 26-Jun-2008 18:40
I just got both of my big toenails removed yesterday. It's not a permanent removal since I want to see how they grow back out. Today I'm supposed to start soaking my feet in Epsom salt water for 20 minutes, and I am so nervous about it. I'm scared to look at them and pass out, and I know it's going to burn!
Red 26-Jun-2008 04:34
I had both of my big toe nails removed several years ago when I get a pedicure they paint my skin. The only problem is it only stays on for a couple of days. So I am going in next week to have my nailbeds on both toes tattooed. Im thinking of hibiscus flowers!! I will let you know how it goes...
Stubby 21-Jun-2008 08:22
Hello,

I have read, that the toe after nailremoval is looking dry. I think, it depends on the method, the nail will be removed and the phenol will be applied.
When i got my left thumbnail removed, the phenol was applied to the nail root and the entire nailbed. It is bacause also the nail bed is producing nail-cells. If the phenol is not applied to the nail bed, it will produce cells, which make the nail bed look dry.
After about 6 weeks there is nearly normal skin, where the nail bed has been before.

A little drawback of the phenol-method is, that there may be small areas on the nailroot, which are not killed. So it happened to me. I will get it removed together with the remaining fingernails on my left hand.
bryguy 20-Jun-2008 19:22
hey Scott how are you toenails doing now?
Nikki T. 19-Jun-2008 18:54
I had my left big toenail removed at age 13 (right before 8th grade started). Eventually at 32 I had the other big toenail removed. I wear sandals and polish my "nails". As time goes on they will need extra moisturizer as they can appear very dry...use vaseline.
Scott 19-Jun-2008 18:37
I had both my big toe nails removed 2 weeks ago, When i went back 1 week after the surgery the doctor cut another 1/8 inch of skin from where the nail was. This was far more painful then the original surgery. I also have pain all day long. It's like the area is drying up, and every step i take is very painful. Is this normal?
Cathy 18-Jun-2008 15:47
I had my big toenails removed because of constant pain...both toes made been smash at different times....pain's been going on for years. I finally went to the podiatrist to have them professionlly trimmed, twice. No help so I voted to have them removed. No problem with shots. After 24 hours, suppose to soak bandage with Domeboro (astringent solution) to provides realief of minor skin irratations - feels like some burning going on, left on for 5 minutes then reapply Silver Sulfadiazine cream and rebandage. This is to gone on for all the time it heals about 5-6 weeks. Can shower after doing the Domeboro. Have to ensure toes stay clean. Go to the doc tomorrow for first visit after getting it done. Going to ask her about the Amerigel and Dreft detergent to see if it would be better. When removed the bandage first time seems like there it still a nail there...what give.
Staci 14-Jun-2008 02:21
I am scheduling to have both of my big toe nails removed completely. I've had several ingrown nails on both, all of which had to be cut out by the doc. I have a problem with the numbing meds... I never get completely numb!!!! The last time he had to cut one out I felt everything he was doing! Therefore, I'm choosing to have the permanent nail removal done in day-surgery so I can be knocked out!!! Anyhow, how long is the normal "return to activity" after something like this. I start back to teaching in early August and need to know if I'll be completely healed.
bryguy 13-Jun-2008 02:48
anyone have all their toenails removed? do you guys still go barefoot?
Stubby 11-Jun-2008 21:34
Hello, 5 weeks ago i got my left thumbnail removed and phenolized. The surgery was no pain besides the narcotic-shots. After the surgery the was no pain but certain drainage the next 3 weeks. The doctor did not advise me to soak every day. Now the healing is complete and the cosmetical result is phantastic.
Kathy 10-Jun-2008 23:00
Kim - Do you apply glue to your skin to apply the artificial toenail?
Guest 09-Jun-2008 02:28
is it alright to use polysporin on the nail a couple of days after having the nail taken right off?
Guest 09-Jun-2008 02:23
i just had one of my big toe nails taken right of f just 2 days ago. and am getting the other big toe done on thursday hopefully i should be fine but the tough part is trying to stay of f my feet when i have a 4yr old and a 7month old
bryguy 07-Jun-2008 19:01
is anyone embarrassed of their toenails?
Guest 05-Jun-2008 21:36
What an interesting site! I just came from my Podiatrist and we were discussing possible toenail removal to take care of fungus and future ingrown problems. He did say it could take up to 7-8 weeks for total recovery from the big toe and 4-5 of the little toes. I have 2 or 3 on each foot that have 'issues'. Sounds like most surgeries - some folks do fine, others not so good.
brandy 05-Jun-2008 01:34
my boyfriend got his left big toe hit with a lawnmower blade and the toe nail had to be removed and the dr. also had to put dissolvable stitches in the gash...were not really sure how to treat it... can it be soaked in the dreft with the stitches in it??? its been about 3 days now... please any suggestions would be great!!!
AJ 04-Jun-2008 23:41
well guess what guys, i was looking at my toe one day and decided to take off the dead skin scab i had. and guess what? the ingrown part of the nail was still stuck in there! so i grabbed some tweezers and pulled it out. the little bastard was about the size of a cheerio. know i have absolutely no more pain and leaking has stopped. you couldnt believe how happy i was. so much for paying alot of money to the damn doctor. my mom was so relieved. i can finally stop soaking it and doing all kinds of stuff. :)
Julie 04-Jun-2008 22:17
I just had my toe nail removed today. My doctor said no swimming pool for 24 - 48 hours, and no lake swimming for a week.
Guest 04-Jun-2008 20:29
I am having my 2 big toenails removed. I would like to have them done at the same time. My doctor advises against this. I want them done at the same time so I can have just one recovery period. Has anyone else done this?
JA 03-Jun-2008 16:42
I had my toenail removed in early December. I had very little pain, it hurt more the first check up after my Dr. messed with it. He gave me some pain pills, but I only took them the first night so I wouldn't wake up throbbing. After the procedure, he had me leave the pressure bandage on for only a couple of hours. I went to work the day I had it done and he just advised me to stay off of my feet. I never soaked it, I applied Ameri Gel (or something like that) after my shower in the morning and kept a bandaid on it over a small piece of gauze. He gave me a little after care kit so I'd have everything I needed. I only had to replace the bandaids, and they were a generic brand! Nothing fancy. I didn't have any blackness. It did drain for a few weeks and sure wasn't pretty to look at in between bandages. The doctor checked me every week, and after a month or so he had me start picking the scab off so that it could heal from the inside out. That part was hard as it was so sensitive from being under the nail for 38 years! I found it was easiest to use a q-tip right after my shower and rub it. Also I would use a little bit of peroxide to help wet it. After about six weeks I didn't have to return, he gave me some lotion to continue putting on it to help get the dead skin off. It still has some rough looking skin so I may try gently sanding it off like someone else here did. The lotion does help, but a lot of times I have the toe painted so I don't apply it. I'm impatient, it's summer and I want to wear sandals. With paint on it you can't even tell that there's no nail so I'm pretty happy with it. I did not wear flip flops too much. I have this pair of mules that have a pretty stiff leather front section that I was able to wear with a sock. The shoe protected my foot and didn't rub on the toe at all. After about three weeks or so I started wearing my running shoes, no problems with the shoes as long as they didn't rub. Reading all these posts, I see that I was very lucky with my experience. Good luck to all who are having trouble, hope you are doing better soon.
Lily 03-Jun-2008 03:08
If I get my big toenail removed on 6/5/08, how long before I can go swimming in my pool??
bryguy 26-May-2008 18:14
where do they sell them? they would work for men?
Guest 25-May-2008 00:18
I think I can answer both Bryguy and Nicole. There is a product by Kiss called "Big Toes" it comes with 4 different size big toenails (4 of each) and medical grade glue. I bought this product and the toenails were very large, the perfect size for men, they are also just a plain skin color, no french manicure or fancy colors. I haven't had any problem with the Medical Grade glue that Kiss also sells. It is made specifically for adhesion to the skin. It works great. It will keep your nail on for about 4 days. They do not sell their products online but if you go to their website (KISS USA) you can locate a store near you that carries these items. Actually the french manicure nails look so good I put them on all my toes. Good Luck :-)
bryguy 24-May-2008 18:31
how would these nails look on a guy.. i am thinking the French Manicure ones might work if no one looked that close at them.. do they have any natural?
Nicol e 22-May-2008 20:01
Kim , I too discovered the Kiss nails. I love them as well. I had my toe big toe nails removed about four years ago during the winter. Very painful. My only challenge is finding a really good adhesive. I have lost a couple falsies in public. I am a teacher and it freaked out one of my students. Recently I have resorted to using super glue. Any suggestions? It is hard for the nails to stick with no nail being on the bed.
Bren 21-May-2008 20:13
I had both the grand toes removed on February 13, 2008. They have healed nicely...finally. This is not an overnite healing process! My toes did not "scab" over for about a month and a half. When they did, I would soak in the Dreft as Nailess suggested, and then take the "scabs" off. This helped me a lot. Just this past week, I wanted to wear flip-flops so I tried painting the nailbed. It worked wonderfully! Looks as if I have nails. The polish only lasts good for about 2 days, but you can always re-apply. I'm very happy to have had this procedure done. It was well worth it to get rid of all the pain of these severe ingrown and ugly nails.
bryguy 21-May-2008 02:38
they should make them for guys also.
Kim 17-May-2008 23:53
I am soooo excited!!! I bought some "Kiss" press on toenails and they look wonderful. You can not tell that they are not real and that I do not have a big toenail on my right foot. I had it removed in Nov 07 and have been dreading the summer season because of it. So if any of you are vain like me, this will be the best $5.99 you have spent in a long time. They stay on about 4-5 days. Good Luck there is hope :-)
bryguy 17-May-2008 19:21
so is everyone wearing sandals this year?
DP OKIE 17-May-2008 04:48
I went back to the doctors today after my first week. He said it looked pretty good and he told me he had my big toe in some type of a vise to hold it still. This is what caused my feelings of broken bones that I still very much feel! So then too, after one week he said I should not use the neo-sporin any longer and like what is said here to just keep it clean and air it out as often as allowed. I am also experiencing the electrical sensations that are painful at times. I am seeing a pain specialist to get nerve blocks? (shots in the back I think! Again I hope you all heal soon and can function normal like soon. Chow now
linda 14-May-2008 00:57
Claire, the antibiotics will not reduce the pain, but will take away infection. Taking something like over the counter ibuprofen will help with the swelling and pain. It sounds like your doctor is thinking that your nailbed is permentely damaged due to this incident you had. If it is, and he took the nail off but not permenetly, it would just grow back crooked and possibly ingrown. I would do as you said, and get a second opinion. Good luck, and keep us posted!
Guest 12-May-2008 17:59
here is a neat little something. I put extra neo-sporin covered it with a sandwich plastic bag and then my sock slipped right over the area without any problem. I wish i didn't only have zip-locks but I will fashion something!
Claire 12-May-2008 08:32
My toe got stood on, and it became very swollen to the point that I wondered if it was broken, after a week or so the swelling reduced slightly...but then I was unfortunate enough to get stood on again by the same person!!! (and he's heavy - 18stone compared to my 7.5 stone!). The second time there was bleeding, and this is when it became infected, it was very sore and swelled up again. I went to the doctors when puss started coming out and he gave me antibiotics, they were working (they reduced the swelling and I was no longer in pain and the infection looked as if it was going), so I went back for more (i was only given a weeks worth), this time I was given stronger antibiotics to get rid of it faster. I just went back last week and the doctor said it wasn't clearing up and that I'd need my nail permanently removed (why???!) and now that I've stopped the antibiotics its getting sore again, I'm sure they were working! I've got an appointment with a different doctor soon and I'll see what he says. I'll keep you updated. (Thanks for listening to the babbling! lol)
JB 12-May-2008 07:18
RE: Oregon guest
Thats kind of funny...(not really)..but I had the same problem with taking off my 1st dressing right after the surgery. I altough only waited 24 hours to try to take mine off. And it still was a serious problem. The dressing would not come off with at least 1 hour and a half of soaking. So it was a saturday so the doc. office was closed. So I had to go to the ER just to get the dressing off b/c it was so stuck on the wound. Yeah the doc. acts like this surgery is a breeze and a walk in the park is way..way..off. I'm at barely over 5 weeks and my toe is just starting to try to scab. It still oozes and a little blood. Just make sure you keep the area clean with either Dreft or antibacterial soap at least once a day maybe twice the 1st couple weeks. The key is letting it air dry as much as possible. And do not glob the neo sporion on the wound. And make sure to try not to open up the wound by bumping it. And try to wear sandles as much as possible. No shoes for a while.
Good luck to you.
Guest 12-May-2008 04:11
Oregon Guest Here: Due to a trauma a couple of years ago, I just had my left big toe nail removed this past Monday (May 5) pretty much as described here. The procedure was not painful because of the numbing shots (which were not real bad--my podiatrist used a "cold" spray) and was a little interesting to watch. After the numbing wore off, I have had pain off and on for the past six days. I'm just getting to where I can put my foot under the untucked covers. At first, it hurt too bad to put on my pants leg, much less a shoe. I was told to take OTC Tylenol. That has mostly helped, except for waking up the middle of the first night feeling like my toe had been amputated. I have a few questions because my doctor seems to have different instructions.

The first difference is she said not to take the pressure bandage off for 48 hours. When I tried to take it off then, it would not come off even with an hour of soaking. I called her office and the nurse said that was what I should do but that it should never soak that long and I would need to come in the next day. I figured leaving it on 18 hours longer would be worse. With no other ideas and with it VERY stuck, I called a nurse friend who said to keep pouring hydrogen peroxide over the gauze until it loosened. After a half bottle later, I was finally able to get it off. That was a two-hour painful ordeal that could have been avoided if I had read more Web sites that say to remove it the next day. Plus I possibly opened the wound more with all that peroxide.

Next, her written instructions say that you can bathe after 48 hours with soap and water, but NOT to soak it at all. To put on the Amerigel cream and change the bandage (gauze and a bandaid) each day. Everyone on here seems to soak theirs daily from the beginning. I have an appointment with her tomorrow and am going to ask about soaking it, as it is still quite sore and draining and one side looks a little infected.

I was led to believe that this procedure was "nothing much" and would be dancing in a week! I definitely needed more information before going through with this. But I'm glad you all are here for me to get some information from. I'll let you know what she says tomorrow.

I wish I had seen this site before the removal, as I would have had more questions to ask her and more things to try.
Linda 11-May-2008 03:15
Claire, I agree with JB. I, too, had mine removed for the same reasons...fungal, ingrown, and curved in so much that they probably would not grow in correctly, and I tolerated excrutiating pain for almost a year before I decided that it was time to have them removed. It is so funny to hear all the people on this site say that their doc told them 2wks or maybe a little longer for healing....HAH! I think the doc's know that if they told us the truth about the healing time....we may consider our options!!!! This is NOT a cheap procedure! Thank God for insurance!!!
JB 11-May-2008 02:30
Re: Claire
Cl aire, I would get the nail permanently removed only if there is or will be future pain in the nail. Then by all means get the surgery done. But, this surgery is a long healing process and is very frustrating. It seems like it never heals. And you will probably get some type of infection in it.....probably most often within the 1st 2 weeks after the surgery. I had to get it done b/c of constant pain from nail fungus made my nail curve really bad. So I had to get it permanently off b/c it would probably never grow back the same again. Its defintley a 2 month healing process or a little more. Unless you can get by with 2 months of wearing sandles constantly...I would not get it done unless it is your last resort.
JB 11-May-2008 02:22
RE: LInda
Yes I've tried the dreft and I never had any problems with it. I really do not think it matters. As long as you're keeping the wound clean. Or you could just use antibaterical liquid soap...which I use mainly. My toe is still barley oozing with a little blood. I'm barely over 5 weeks in. I have no pain, but it still feels weird with a sock on with no bandade. So I still use a nonstick pad with guaze over it. I've stopped using neo sporion on it. I can run and do normal activites with it now. I try to wear a shoe every once in a while but not very often. I mainly wear sandles. I went to the doctor and he said I should have a pretty decent scab in a couple weeks...but he said that alsso a couple weeks ago as well. It's just a long battle. The doc. told me a t 1st 2-4 weeks...but I see it at more around 8-10 weeks before its close to normal skin.
Good luck to you.
Linda 11-May-2008 01:38
JB, have you tried this dreft soaking that others have spoke about? I am going to try it. I'll try anything at this point!! Thanks all for the tip.
Linda 11-May-2008 01:37
Claire, did you have an abcess under your nail? Did, or is it oozing pus or blood? Usually, the doc trys to relieve pressure by making a small hole in the nail to relieve pressure if there is a hematoma (bruise) under it. The antibiotics are used as a precaution for infection prior to the removal procedure. If you don't have to get this done, by all means...DON"T! I mean, it's not the worst surgery one could have, but why go through all this unnecessary healing time and all with summer right around the corner. Trust the majority of us who have written this site....it takes more than 2-3wks to heal. I am on my 5th week and my toe looks like a slice of pizza. It is so gross, still draining, and so very tender to the touch.
DP OKIE 11-May-2008 01:35
I THINK THE DOC SHOULD ALWAYS KNOW BEST BUT UNLESS IT HURTS I WOULD NOT LET JUST ANYBODY TALK ME INTO IT AN INFECTION SOUNDS LIKE ANTIBIOTICS SHOULD WORK BUT IF GROWING IN IT MIGHT HAVE TO
Claire 10-May-2008 18:22
I have an infection, after 2 weeks of antibiotics (2nd week stronger) the doctor said it wouldn't go on its own and I'd need surgery to remove the whole nail and not have it grow back!! It's not ingrown so is this necessary? The injury was caused by somebody standing on me. I really really don't want this done, what will happen if I don't have it done?
DP OKIE 10-May-2008 17:24
THE UPPER SIDES OF MY FOOT FEEL AS IF IT WAS IN A CLAMP LEAVING ME WITH BROKEN BONES! I HAVEN'T READ THAT FROM ANYONE ELSE. CAN ANYONE RELATE TO THAT?
DP OKIE 10-May-2008 17:15
THOSE ARE SOME PRETTY GREUSOME PICTURES. THEY KOED ME FOR IT ALL HOWEVER I HAD PLANTAR WARTS ON THE BOTTOM OF MY FOOT YEARS AGO AND HAD TO GET THAT NEEDLE FROM A CONCIOUS STATE THAT TIME AND I TELL YOU I DO REMEMBER THAT SHOT THE DOC WOUND UP TAKING ONLY HALF OF MINE THE LIMITED BLOOD SUPPLY IS THREATENING TOE AMPUTATION HE SAYS?
DP OKIE 10-May-2008 17:05
HELLO TO YOU ALL I HAD IT DONE TO MY RIGHT BIG TOE NAIL THREE DAYS AGO. I AM IN SO MUCH PAIN MORESO THAN BEFORE THE SURGERY BUT IT HAD TO BE DONE I AM ON BLOOD THINNERS BUT MY DOC SAID MY BLOOD SUPPLY WAS SO LOW TO THE TOE IT WOULD TAKE A LONG TIME TO HEAL I HAVE BEEN OUT OF COMMISSION SINCE JAN 1 WITH A BLOOD CLOT IN MY LEG WHICH LEFT BLOOD SUPPLY TO MY FOOT VERY LIMITED. MY FOOT WAS DYING AND I DIDN'T KNOW IT. THEN NOW MONTHS LATER ALMOST BETTER FROM THAT, THIS I HOPE IT HEALS SOON. ALL OF YOURS TOO!
Nailless 09-May-2008 20:18
I have had all 10 nails removed. One grand toe in a surgery in a hospital setting, Another in a office setting, and the rest of the eight nails in an hospital setting.
They all took a long time to heal up, but with the last ones there was a little better knowledge as knowing what to expect what was to happen. When you visit a doctor office the first week after surgery and are told that you don't ned to return and keep up what is being done that say somethign. Even his nurse hadn't ever heard that someone didn't have to return to be checked again unless a problem.
I started out with soaking in DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP twice daily the first week and then to once a week the second. Light water based medicine on the toe beds the first couple of weeks with band-aids covering them each tmie. I used band-aid band ones that were cloth band-aids. Band-aid were put on running down the toes and then allowing then a little space and over thetoe it self covering the nail beds.
I never tried to place my feet in any shoes, and only wore flip flops for weeks. Then the third week I started allowing the air ot be on my toes and only a band-aid at night in bed. (make sure your sheet aren't touched in tightly as this can cause toes to become opened up and drainage to start.)
It's very important to allow the toes to air 5 minutes after they are soaked and after showers etc. Only pat them dry and then let the air dry them on it's own.
At about 6 weeks I braved socks and then put on a pair of new shoes that had lots of toe room in them so them did bump my toes at all. By week 8 I could wear my shoes with out a problem and allowing my toes to breath nightly here in flip flops and still doing so.
I would rather be careful then go back through what I had with the toes and now they are nail less for life. So if someone doesn't like the looks of them, oh well look away. They are my toes and proud of them.
Hope this helps some with questions.
JB 09-May-2008 15:09
RE: LINDA

yES, I TOO HAVE BEEN GOING THROUGH THIS LONG HEALING PROCESS WITH PERMNENT REMOVAL. I HAD MY RIGHT BIG TOE NAIL REMOVED 5 WEEKS TO THE DAY. ITS SCABBING BUT IT STILL DRAINS AND A LITTLE BLOOD. I TOO FOLLOW THE SOAKING AND AIRING DRY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE TO A TEE AS WELL. THATS WHY I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS SURGERY UNLESS IS ABSOLUTLEY NESSESSARY. I HAD TO DO IT B/C OF FUNGUAL INFECTION PAIN. I WOULD NOT DO IT JUST B/C OF THE TOE NAIL LOOKS BAD. OH WELL, IT LOOKS BAD. BIG DEAL. IF THERES NO PAIN I WOULD NOT GET IT DONE. UNLESS YOUR WILLING TO GO THROUGH 2 -3 MONTHS OF NOT WEARING SHOES AND BEING INACTIVE. BUT, WHO HAS TME TO BE INACTIVE FOR 2-3MONTHS....SURELY NOT MYSELF. ITS BEEN A LONG BATTLE AND WOULD NOT WISH THIS UPON ANYONE ELSE.
Linda 09-May-2008 00:05
Hello to all reading this. This procedure has been a horendous experience for me. I had both my big toenails removed a month ago due to being ingrown and fungal. I had pain in both toes for over a year and finally broke down and had them removed. I am really concerned because they just don't seem to be healing in the way that I would think they should be. They look "wet" and I still have drainage that comes through my dressing. It is mostly clear, but has a tinge of blood at times. I went back to the doc two weeks after the procedure for my checkup, and was put on oral antibiotics due to the excessive drainage...mostly for a preventitive measure. I followed the after the procedure instructions to the tee...soaking twice a day in antibacterial soap and water, the bandaging with bacitracin. It seemed they were too wet and have been allowing them to get air in the evening when I am home. I keep the bandaging off all night. After the removal, a chemical was used on the nailbed, which also got on my skin surrounding the nailbed. My skin is still red and a little inflamed from that chemical. If that chemical kills the nail, it will do the same to my skin! I am in nursing school, and know that I am at risk for osteomyelitis, which is infection down to the bone. I feel a little better hearing that it takes some people longer to heal from this, but am so concerned about infection. Even though this procedure seems so simple and risk free, it can be dangerous. A "little infection" can turn into a systemic infection. I have yet another appt. in two days, and am so worried.
Julia 07-May-2008 19:44
JB - yes, it is a very long process. I am so frustrated as I see so little progress. My doctor said the toe will look OK in six months. And in a year it's going to look as good as it ever will. A year! And I wonder if it'll look better than it did before the procedure. I got it done only because I hated the way my toenail looked(fungus). But I am not sure it will look better now. I almost regret having it done.
Nailless 05-May-2008 14:01
RE: mb,
Not srue what you used on your toes but I haven't seen anyone's heal in a weeks time. Nail removal that is premanently done takes longer because of the burns causedd from the chemicals etc. Just removing a nail and not damaging the nail bed may heal sooner like that but the nail will regrow out again. Has your nails regrown?
mb 05-May-2008 01:06
I had three toenails removed on my left foot because of a fungus, about a month ago. They all healed within a week, I am glad i did it.
Nailless 04-May-2008 22:53
My toes where the nails where , the last 8 I had removed in Sept 2007. They had what I thought was a scabto yet peal off on them. Well it was a growth of skin layers from the chemical burning they ddid. After daily showers and allowing my toes to soak in the water while showering to soften them, I slowly worked it off my toes.. This took a period of time as I only removed what came loose with gentally rubbing them. Then a good cleaning afterwords to make sure they didn't get any problems.
BAnd-aid where only on my toes during the second and third weeks, rest of the time I allowed them to air and breath. Flip flopped for 6-8 weeks plus and thenstarted out with just socks and then tried my shoes for a short period of time daily. Make sure you shoes don't rub those toes any place at all.
Now I have dry skin looknig nail area, I sometime lightly sand them after a shower to rid some of the skin ot help them look a bit better, but other wise they are fine. I wear flip flops, open sandle and walk proud as this isn't something that bothers me is they get seen. They are only toes. :) Who cares what others think about my feet... They aren't causing my any more problems.. :)
JB 03-May-2008 22:36
If anyone has any questions or wants to talk toe nail recovery.
my e-mail address is jayboek@yahoo.com
JB 03-May-2008 22:33
RE: JUlia

I too had my right big toe nail removed a month ago. I'm in the same situation you are. Its now finally scabbing, but still has the black color and not much peeling off. I just soak it once a day. I just tried not wearing a bandade ...just a sock and it felt weird. Not really a pain, but not really comfort. This process just takes forever. I guess others heal quicker. Plus, I'm a smoker..so I heard it takes longer to heal. I just hope I never have to go throygh this ordeal ever again. It really puts a damper on your life. BAsically 2 months of misery.
Julia 03-May-2008 20:58
I had my toenail removed about four weeks ago. It seems to be healing nicely but it does not look much better, it still has that blackish color and nothing is peeling off. Can anybody tell me when should I expect an improvement? When is it going to look better?
bryguy 01-May-2008 22:10
how old are you man?
Todd 01-May-2008 19:04
You can tell from all the postings on this site, that people have had varying experiences in order to reach the same outcome (i.e. permanent removal). For me, I had lots of pain in my third and fourth phalanges during leg workouts at the gym. My toenails, all five, had a chronic fungal infection that was not resolved with a three month treatment of Lamisil. So far, my experience has been great (no pain and recovering nicely).
JB 01-May-2008 03:21
RE: Mom

Do you have to get these toe nails permanently off b/c of pain or possible pain? I had my right toe nail removed a month ago b/c of fungus. My nail went all crooked and probably would never grow the same again. I personally would not recommened this procedure to anyone if you do not have to do it. It is a long...long...frustrating healing process. My toe is finally starting to scab..but with still a little drainage. If you do get it done, take advice from this site. The best thing is to keep the area clean. And when applying neo sporion, do not coat it...just a little. And try to give it as much air as possible. I have not wear a regular shoe since the procedure and I'm dying to finally wear one once again. I'm hoping in a week or so I can start putting on a shoe and feel comfortable about it. It will be around 5 weeks by then.
Mom 01-May-2008 02:36
I am having both big toe nails removed Friday. Dr thinks that it is best as I have a fungus. He said I can also have a pedicure and polish will be able to adhere to skin after the toes heal. I still have time to chg my mind. Please commment. Thanks
bryguy 29-Apr-2008 14:32
why did you have yours done man?
Nailless 29-Apr-2008 00:00
RE: Todd,
Best of luck with those toes healing up with out any problems. Important thing is to keep them very clean and when in doubt ask questions about them with your doc or here. Will try to help and others as well on the board.
Kee pus posted here please?

Todd 28-Apr-2008 22:59
Thanks for the postings. I had all five toenails permanently removed (left foot) almost a week ago. Fortunately, I have not had any pain whatsoever. The toes are healing nicely. This site gave me the extra fortitude to "get 'er done."
bryguy 25-Apr-2008 14:31
i think feet are important.. and so are their appearance.
Nailless 24-Apr-2008 15:24
How important are our feet?

First off they are what holds us up and allows us to walk. Our toes play a big part in that as well. Our foot wear and tear is also important to our backs and spines.
A good investment in a pair of good shoes is the best thing one can do for them. Not selling any brands, but ther are some great ones out there that can be fitted to the foot by now only wideths but lenghts.
Waterproof shoes are als o nice as they allow the foot to stay dry at most times. Plus I found good wicking socks at Wal Mart (starter brand) that I started wearnig and they have helped keep my feet coffy as well.
Being nail-less on al 10 (ten) toes here is something that I am now dealing with. Yes i wear flip flops, sandle and gow with my toes in the air. My favorite thing to wear lounging it my good leather flip flops.
When in doubt, ask someone, your foot doctor, a local E-r can als obe called and questions asked. If you have lots of pain and lots of reddness go to the doctor or
E-R at a hopsital right way.

Nail-less and happy with my toes.
Nailless 24-Apr-2008 15:24
E: JB,
Toes after nail removal take longer, because of the burnig with chemicals that takes place to kiil the nail beds. A burn is a wound that will heal in time but on it's own good time. That is one reason it is a longer healing process.
Keepngi the wounds clean is the most important part and trying to no allow it to get bumped and the healing ot keep going with out damage to an already wound.
JB 23-Apr-2008 03:58
Yeah, its off. As you can read my previous posts. I've not had pain in it in over a weeek since I started taking antibotic pills. It still drains a little with also a little blood. But, I'm starting to noticing the wound hardeneding up a little like a scab I believe is trying to form. Its my 18th days since the surgery. Its just a little tender and sensitive. I try as much as I can to let the wound air dry as much as possible for the past week now. I just thought this wound would heal sooner. My doctor said 2-4 weeks. Then I hear on this board 8-12 weeks. Which one is it? The only reason I say that is b/c a few years ago I about had my right pinke cut off. But it was stitched shut and it healed pretty much back to normal in a couple weeks. Its just a slow moving healing process with this toe for some reason.
bryguy 23-Apr-2008 01:57
how does it look now? is it off? does it bother you at all? and do you go barefoot much?
JB 22-Apr-2008 23:18
I think I had nail fungus. Did not really get a good answer for why. It happened around last October. My big right toe nail starting curving inward for some odd reason. . And there was a constant pain on the whole nail. I went to a doctor and he said I should get it permanently off. SO I did not. But, he cut it down and really yanked on it making hurt even worse. So I thought I would just keep cutting it short so it would not go into my skin. But the nail hurt bad and I could barely even touch it. So it grew out pretty good and I had to get it off b/c the pain with walking on it was getting worse. I could not trim it b/c it hurt so bad . And even went I put on socks, pants, and barely nudged it ...it hurt really bad. I do not know why my nail went all crooked inward. He did not really give me a reason why. I'm baffaled myself why.
bryguy 22-Apr-2008 22:47
JB why did you have your toe done? just one?
JB 22-Apr-2008 00:54
Okay, I lied. I just got home from work and took my bandage off. More oozing and blood. Jeez...with this thing ever get any better. Its just not scabbing up right like a normal bruise. I do not know if I'm soaking too much or what?
JB 21-Apr-2008 17:58
My toe today has finally stopped draining and no blood when I came home from lunch to soak my toe. Its now really starting to heal. Thanks nailless on the dreft techinque for soaking. I've been doing it twice a day now. I believe the antibotic pills also helped. I suggest after a week or so and there is still pain and oozing go get an antibotic from your doctor b/c its probably infected. Also the main key is to give it as much air as possible. Only bandage it when you need to go outside your home. I also do not wear shoes, wear sandles that does not press on the toe. Also another key is dont put too much neo sporion on the wound. Just a little. Mine has been alittle over two weeks and it should be pretty much healed in a couple weeks.
AJ 21-Apr-2008 00:27
RE NAILESSim thinking about just going to the doctor and geting me some prescribed antibiotic pills. because its just not working with all the methods im doing. thanks anyway.
Nailless 21-Apr-2008 00:26
How important are our feet?

First off they are what holds us up and allows us to walk. Our toes play a big part in that as well. Our foot wear and tear is also important to our backs and spines.
A good investment in a pair of good shoes is the best thing one can do for them. Not selling any brands, but ther are some great ones out there that can be fitted to the foot by now only wideths but lenghts.
Waterproof shoes are als o nice as they allow the foot to stay dry at most times. Plus I found good wicking socks at Wal Mart (starter brand) that I started wearnig and they have helped keep my feet coffy as well.
Being nail-less on al 10 (ten) toes here is something that I am now dealing with. Yes i wear flip flops, sandle and gow with my toes in the air. My favorite thing to wear lounging it my good leather flip flops.
When in doubt, ask someone, your foot doctor, a local E-r can als obe called and questions asked. If you have lots of pain and lots of reddness go to the doctor or
E-R at a hopsital right way.

Nail-less and happy with my toes.

Nailless 21-Apr-2008 00:16
RE: AJ,
First off stop the Espom salts. This is burnig the wound and putting vasoline type creams on it is only causing more harm.
First off start soaking once a daily or twice for the first week or so with DREFT Laundry Soap, 1(one)-tablespoon per gallon of warm water, or a dish-pan full of warm water. 15-20 minutes each time of longer tostart. Then lightly pat the area dry with a clean terry towel and then let it air dry.
Allow that toe to breath aand be in the air as much as you can. Only place a band aid on it when wearnig shoes if needed. Flip flops of and open toe pair of sandle are better for now.
You can also put a light sock over the toe as long as it's clean and doesn't stick to the wounds. If anything is sticking to a wound soak it off.
I was over 2 months healing up my toes here and it was a flip flop foot wear al lthat time. Keeping the areas clean at all times and watching what I did not ot harm the wounds as they healed. (not easy I know, as I hit one toe and popped it opened)
If you still have lots of pain afte soakni in DREFT for a couple fo day and it's not loknig any better , redness wise, go to see your doctor or the local E -R at a hospital.
Time and air is one of the best things one can do. Letting it heal before jumping in a [pair of shoes. It's frustrating and a long ordeal but better safe the sorry later.
Keep the board posted and up dated? Thanks and best of luck!
AJ 20-Apr-2008 23:53
REnailess i got a wound where the nail stuck into, but it wont freaking close, i add antibiotic ointment with a band aid, but after i take it off, it doesnt look any better, and with the epsom salt, it aint looking good either, should i just keep adding ointment and cleaning it with antibacterial soap?, plus its also pretty swollen.
Guest76 19-Apr-2008 22:34
RE. Stubby,
Thought this was a toe nail board, as it states. Why would someone have finger nail removed off their hads?
Stubby 19-Apr-2008 17:24
Hi lbliss,

your naked big toes look very nice.

In about 2 weeks i will get my left thumbnail permanently removed. I hope, that the healing is a lot faster on the hand than on the feet.
If it will go right and the cosmetcal result is ok, then the other fngernails will be removed too hand by hand.
Nailless 19-Apr-2008 14:17
RE: AJ,
STOP the soaks in epsom salt.. Not only does it cause damage to your wounds, it also dries out other parts of your body.. DREFT is the best thing for soaking and the safest. Read the post I left earlier today..
Good luck healing.
Nailless 19-Apr-2008 13:51
RE: JB, and AJ,
Healnig toes are a long ordeal .. I know oh so well .. 10 total off. To start with me put pressure on our feet/toes more then other parts of the body. Shoes fit tightly and cause rubbing on the toe areas, etc. Then add that if permently taken off they really chemically burn the toe matrix area, so your also dealing with a bad burn to boot.
Time, keeping the toe nail bed dry, clean and not injuring the healing that has taken place. I lived in flip flops from Sept 21- Nov 15 before I felt that I cold safely wear shoes again (8 nails off this time. both grand/big toe had been done before)
Soaking in Dreft Laundry Soap ad appling band aids for the first three weeks or so. The first week and a twice a day soaking in dreft, and applying band aids twice daily. A pain but in the end I don't deal with my nail any more. Does seem like for ever healig but play it safe so the healing doesn't take so long. Rather heal once then injure the area and have to start at round one again.
Water based treatments area the best, as they don't allow pooling of fuilds to build up on the nail beds. This should only ne needed for the first week or so. Air is a good thing and second to third weeks soaks should only be needed once a day if that. Pat the toes towel dry with a clean towel daily. Keeping them clean is the most important thing. Stop infection before it can start.
Keep the board posted. I to was inthe same boat looking for a place ot learn about this, the toe nail issues and this board was the best place I found. Since I have been tryingo t keep those needing helped imformed about what I hae read, learned first hand and dealt with.
Best of luck!
JB 19-Apr-2008 03:05
Re: AJ

I had mine done 2 weeks ago and I hope my toe is healed in a couple weeks. I really do not think so the way it is slow..slow..slow..slow....healing process. It just seems to not look an better. I do not know why the toe takes so long to heal. I had my right hand pinke about cut off at the end about 4 years ago and it was pretty much close to being heled after 2 weeks. And a toe takes forever? I like to work out, run, and do things but this toe is really hampering my activities. I am really quite tired of it. This dang toe is all I think about. Its really frustrating doing doctor orders and above and seeing no results. I would not suggest this surgery to others unless is absolutley necessary. Which, in my case it was. I feel you though. This healing process sucks. I've just started with the Dreft soakings trying anything to heal this thing faster. It seems with this surgery which I've read on this board and my sitiuation with my personal doctor, it seems you get no help or good enough info on how to correctly take proper care of this toe. There's also not too much info on the internet as well. Sorry, but I'm totally frustrated with this toe and thought the healing process would be alot quicker.
AJ 19-Apr-2008 02:40
i had excess nail in my toe removed about 4 weeks ago, but it keeps oozing. ive been soaking it in epsom salt and warm water ,and applying triple antibiotic ointment with a band aid. what should i do?
Nailless 18-Apr-2008 21:29
RE: JB,
DREFT soaks in warm water will help. As for the medicines.. A water base one is the best.. allowign the toes ot air is also a good thing.. but also a light aplying of a band aid on the toes as wel after it airs a while. If one can wear flip flops and staying inside airing is a good thing and making sure you watch toes toes not ot bang them into something.
Band aids should be put on so that you start at the foot and bring them up and over the nail bed under the toe. Just making sure they aren't to tight on the toe area. Never let a band aid touch the other end of it's self, as it will be harder t oremove and can pop open a heal area. (run them like you toe grows.. outwords and over it).
Keep the board posted.
JB 17-Apr-2008 22:37
I had a question. Dont know how long to keep using neo sporion w/ pain creme. I think I've been putting too much on at a time. I was think about using the DREFT soap, but is that all I need. Just soak with Dreft and bandage with no neo sporion.
Nailless 17-Apr-2008 22:16
RE.: JB,
I hope that your toes get to feeling better. Not fun having infections in them. Main thing is to keep wounds clean and allowing them to recover from surgeries etc.
Best wishes on a speedy recovery.

Keep us posted?
JB 17-Apr-2008 21:40
Went back to foot doctor and said it was infected. I just started taking pills to fight infection and already today feeling better.
Nailless 16-Apr-2008 18:08
RE: CC,
The vic thing has been written about in an article on our local paper.. Doctor Gott. Some say they have had success with it, but it is an on going thing, day after day to keep it up.
Hope what ever you decide will help you with the foot issue you are having.
Keep us posted.
CC 16-Apr-2008 15:52
To Nailless:

Thank you for your reply... it made me cry when you said to put my trust in the Lord to hold my hands. I'm a Christian, but sometimes faith is harder for me and I don't know why. My mother died 2 years ago when a petroleum truck hit her head on as she was on her way to pick up my two teenagers from school. She was also a Christian, definitely more faith than me and ready to go. We never got to say good-bye. Since then we were disowned by the rest of her family (long story, but their bitterness toward her came onto me), moved 3 times, got a divorce, and had a baby. I work in a nursing home, which is why I'm worried about my future with this nail. I'm sometimes surrounded by depression, and seems like I'm falling apart sometimes (probably some post partum depression). So your post was very well said and I believe God gave you those words for me.

Still scared, but "if" I have to have this nail done, I know Jesus will be there. I just overly dread things.

To Everyone Else:

Right now, I've started soaking the foot in peroxide/apple cider vinegar, and trying other remedies for the fungus. I did a lot of research on the toenail fungus last night and realize it might also be the culprit for the ingrown part. But once this fungus has made it start ingrowing, can it successfully ever "outgrow"?? And has anybody ever had any success with these home remedies... the peroxide/apple cider vinegar... bleach and water... vicks vaporub... tea tree oil... and antifungal ointments along with filing down the top thickness of the nail?
Nailless 16-Apr-2008 14:47
RE: JB ,
Soak those toes and docotrign them will only help the healnig. Neglect is why your having problems.
Happy Feet 16-Apr-2008 13:02
To: JB

It’s quite normal for the toe to be draining after only 11 days. The average healing time for the big toe is 10 to 12 weeks.

If you are having pain at this point and do not think there is any infection, consider the possibility that the toe is too warm. After the surgery the body makes more capillaries in the toe to carry more blood for healing. These extra capillaries cause the toe to swell and look redder in color. They will remain in the toe until healing is complete.

Because of the extra capillaries, the soaking is best done in cool water to prevent the pain that comes with added warmth, swelling and pressure. If you are on your feet all day and are unable to elevate them at all, this will also increase the swelling and pressure there, especially if you are wearing closed shoes and socks.

If cooler conditions do not alleviate the pain, then it would be best to see a doctor regarding the possibility of infection.
JB 16-Apr-2008 04:00
I had my right big toe nail removed on April 4th, 2008. I never had pain with it until after the numbness when out around 12 hours latter. Then yesterday, I began getting pain in it. I've did my soaking and putting neo sporion on it and bandage every day. I do not know why it is hurting now? I hope it is not infected. I feel it going up my toe. It still keeps oozing. The doctor says it would heal 2-4 weeks but defintely not 2 weeks. I also work a job where I'm on my feet the whole day. I wish there was some other way then getting this nail totally removed. Its not a fun experience. It just seems this toe is not getting any better. Its been 11 days and still bright red and oozing. It just seems this toe is not healing.
Nailless 15-Apr-2008 23:18
RE: CC ,
Get a second opinion. from another foot doctor.
As for the guaze sticking to the nail bed, one should always soak it loose.
Sounds like you are spreading nail fungis from one toe ot another with cutting tools or other things. If you toes are hurting you from ingrown nails, your shoes can be the biggest blame to cause that to happen. They are to tight or to small. Better to invest in a good pair of shoes not only for your toes, but for your back as well.
Set up a visit to another foot doc and discuss your concerns with them. They can answer your questions and concerns by seeing your toes first hands.
As for gettingthings done to them... I think like a dentist we all dread going and what we think will happen and it's never really as bad as we make it in our minds. Relax and put your trust in the Lord to hold your hands.
Keep us posted.
CC 15-Apr-2008 19:16
Oh, and I had a c-section and was fine with that, have had root canals done and so on, fine with those now. It's just a fear I'm going to feel something and wish I could be knocked out all together. You may email me at loverulez@yahoo.com.
CC 15-Apr-2008 18:30
Oh, and I had a c-section and was fine with that, have had root canals done and so on, fine with those now. It's just a fear I'm going to feel something and wish I could be knocked out all together. You may email me at loverulez@yahoo.com.
CC 15-Apr-2008 18:25
I've read thru all the posts here, plus tone more other places. Thanks to the creator, even though I didn't really look at the pics above that much.

I'm suffering from an ingrown toenail on my great toe. I've had it for several years, but just recently it's gotten worse.. maybe it's just me or what I'm doing now. The toe was traumatized when a chair fell on it (I was a teen, now 41), resulting in the nail popping up, suffering all night with it throbbing, going to my gp the next day, and having it taken off. I remember shots he gave me prior to taking it off... they hurt bad but I don't think he waited long enough for the shots to work cuz I felt all of it as he removed it. Then he wrapped gauze around it and the gauze stuck so I had to literally, over the coarse of days, take it off painfully strand by strand. That has left a very bad memory for me.

Now I'm considering having just the edge removed and I'm worrying terribly over it.. I've done research online for 24 hours straight... I've not been able to sleep due to my over anxiety... and haven't eaten well. I'm a worrier by nature.

A few months ago, right after having my baby, I went to a podiatrist who looked at my poor toe. I would say it was stage 1 or 2, hurting when I pressed on the top of the nail, appearing yellowish in color, and the nail has become thickened. He doesn't think it's due to a fungal infection, but rather the trauma as a teen. But the second toenail is also quite curved and thick, yellowish, no pain and now the third toe has started becoming thicker.. when I trim the nail just kind of breaks off and that's not how it used to be. Anyway, this dr. said it wasn't even attached to the nail bed for the most part and could be trimmed way back, which he did, and dug out some of the ingrown part, which didn't hurt only because of a spray refrigerant they used. I went back to him a second time for this to be done, only this time no refrigerant and it hurt a bit but not bad.

During this period after my baby's birth, I also developed metatarsalgia. I could hardly walk... went to the same podiatrist above, who gave me a shot of the refrigerant between my toes, then a numbing shot, then a cortisone shot... I felt no pain with that. Which was good.

So the procedure for my toenail is just for the side, not the whole thing, and he doesn't use the phenol, but surgically removes the matrix, because of complications with the phenol (probably the chance of infection and drain time). He says they use marcaine and novocain as the numbing agents. I'm hoping someone can help me determine what to do. My nail is cut over halfway back on the side now, and last time I dug it out, it took me 2 days to do it... painfully too... because I could tell I wasn't getting a little piece out way down deep and my toe continued to be inflamed and hurt until I got it. I never had this much problem cutting it when it was out to the end of the nail, but now it seems like when it starts growing out, it will start hurting and become inflamed along the side.

Oh, btw, the office person said I could try to help it grow out to the end again by using eucerin plus every day to soften the nail and bed. She said sometimes a callous develops where it's trying to grow and it might soften it up enough to grow out. Like I said though, I'm 41 and thinking ahead to the future, when I won't be able to dig at my nails like I do now. My grandparents had ingrown nails too, thick and yellow, and my mom had a toe nail removed permanently but she's dead now so can't help me. If the cortisone shot didn't hurt at all, the numbing shots should be fine too right? He said most often the cortisone shots hurt because they didn't numb first and injected it too fast. I want this toe fixed by I'm stressing so badly right now... I dread things over excessively.

I'm scared....
web-toes 15-Apr-2008 04:35
i just had the grand toe nails removed two weeks ago. i have had ingrown nail since ateen and now at 25 they are off and the first time they didn't hurt from a nail there. there is some pain from the removeal but not like i lived with year after year.
how long does it take before they become normal like again?
Nailless 13-Apr-2008 15:32
We welcome everyones post, comments and questions. Feel free to add to the board?
Nailless 08-Apr-2008 23:29
You will have to put this in your eelf as i can't post it correctly here..
w w w . D r e f t . c o m
Nailless 08-Apr-2008 23:27
RE: Marion D,
I'm in USA.
Dreft Laundry soap is a soap used to wsh baby items. It has a things in it that kills germs that can cause other problems from starting. I was informed by a foot doctor who only uses this on his patients and I als o tried it. It's the best thing I found to soak in.
It's also great to soak in for a regular bubble bath and leaves the skin feeling smooth and not dried out.
The DREFT web site is ..
Best of luck!
Marion D 08-Apr-2008 22:12
Dear Nailless
Thank you very much for your advice re treating my toe. I'll see if I can find Dreft Laundry (am in England and think you may be in US?). If not will look for alternative. Clearly I needs to air nail more - and to wash it as opposed to using antibiotic cream - which have been increasingly uneasy about. Will keep you posted (have to say I NEVER imagined engagin in chat about toenails.... oh the glamour!). Thanks again.
Nailless 08-Apr-2008 15:51
Just stopping in to check the board.
My toes are not a problem here with me. Just they are a bit dry looking at times, but better then dealing with health issues with them with the nails on.
Post are all welcomed here. Questions, exeriences etc. We learn from each other.
Pinky toe 08-Apr-2008 15:19
Hi reading the board I see some have problems with their nails being gome. I have three off on my feet. It happened because of an accident with a electric door at a store.
I had issues with going bare footed at first and the more I wore opened toed shoes and other type shoes that showed my toes. Very embassed having someone looking at me feet and see no nails there.
That feeling soon disappeared as time when on. Now after 23 years of having my nails gone for life I feely go bare foot and even in public. Nailless, I to am showing my feet. Glad that others have over come the feelings I once had too.
This board is a great thing, wish it was here 23 years ago, but not sure computers were.

Nailless 07-Apr-2008 17:21
RE: Guest-toes ,
I feel the same way about my toes nails being removed. Better then what they could be. I go in flip flops, and sandle a lot. Not a bother. But this year will be my first summer with out nails on every toe.

bryguy 06-Apr-2008 19:27
I guess some peoplej ust don't care about what their toes or toenails look like. Email tbud4258@aol.com
bryguy 06-Apr-2008 16:28
14.55, 1500. and 1501... the times of the posts. very close. what up with that?
bryguy 06-Apr-2008 16:27
Those posting times are very close to one another.
sexy feet 06-Apr-2008 15:01
anyone in here with a foot festish? With our with out nails?
Guest-toes 06-Apr-2008 15:00
What is the big issue about not having ones nails after they have been removed. Man mine are all gone now. They had a bigger problem with the fungis int hem and the way they looked before the removal. So glad I had it done.
I walk bare foot in public and at the pool and my toes aren't a problem with looking like this now. Better then the other way. So way if they are different looking with no nails and only skin layer on them.
Been reading over the board and Nailless and some other seem to also be proud of their toes. Who would wish fake nails on their feet... Crazy to start another problem up when one doesn't have to. Like if one looses all his hair, place a hairpiece on his head, not me..
Nail-less now for life.

Nailless 06-Apr-2008 14:55
RE: Marion D. ,
Best thing for those toes.. Soak in only Drfet L:aundry soap with warm water ( One tablespoon per Gallon of water) Soaking time should be 15-20 minutes twice a day to sart and then can be put to once a day, depending on how the toes look and feel. It doesn't hurt to soak twince a day. A clean band-aid twice a day after, one pats dry the toes and lets then air about 5 minutes so they get completely dried off. Air is the best things for the toes and keepnig them as clean as one can.
Only water base creams for the first week or two and a band-aid if needed, but other wise open to the air and wearing shoes that do not rub the toes.
Shoes that fit are the sbest key and good one to boot. The cheaper the shoe the more foot problems one will have down the road. (I wore flip flops till mine got completely healed , then started out in a new pair of sneakers that have lots of room for the toes to more and didn't rub my toe area.
Hope this helps.
Keep us posted?
Marion D. 05-Apr-2008 23:19
This has been really helpful. Toenail excised on 22 February; still very painful; some infection treated twice with antibiotics. The worst thing is having to wear shoes to work; very painful and am sure has extended healing time. My question: doctor (not chiropodist who did the initial work - which was much less painful than partial excision last year done by different person - whom I've seen about the infection, says I shouldn;t wash the toe or get any of it wet. Is this right? I did slat water washed between weeks 2 and 3 after the operation - but since then nothing. Just antibiotic cream. I dress it once a day - no more. Am I doing things wrong...? Advice welcome.
Nailless 03-Apr-2008 20:24
RE: Bren ,
Glad that I helped you. This board was a great help when I was headed in for the 8 that got removed last. Grand toes had beeen done so I know a little what was to happen.
Nail less toes.. they look different, but better then yellow-pealing nails that are gross... rather what they look like now they seeing what some toes look like. Mine never got really gross before the removal, but it was a health reason why mine are now completely gone and little fungis in some.
Keep the post coming?
bryguy 03-Apr-2008 18:14
drew if you want you can email at tbud4258@aol.com.
Bren 03-Apr-2008 14:49
Nailless:
I just wanted to send you a great big thank you for all your comments and suggestions on this site. I'm now into the 7th week since nail removal and all seems to be going just as everyone has posted about. My doctor did a great job with the surgery, but didnt really have a lot of helpful suggestions about the healing process. Thanks to all who've posted on here, it's been a great help!
drew 03-Apr-2008 14:14
Bryguy and Age 37 guest. . I don't know if you had the procedure below but I certainly feel as if I am in the same boat as you people
drew 03-Apr-2008 14:06
I am 57 and had both my big toe nails removed in 1966 after previous attempts had failed to resolve my ingrowing toe nails. The operation procedure I believe is called "Zadik's procedure". The operation was successful but my big toes are now quite unusual in appearance. The toes were in fact folded over to cover the area where the nail had existed and therefore now shorter than normal big toes and "nail less" . I am quite conscious of my toes at swimming pools/beaches and I am interested in some cosmetic improvement. i.e a false nail or perhaps a subtle tattoo that would simulate the appearance of an ordinary nail
bryguy 03-Apr-2008 06:12
to 37 year old guest.. is this your first time on the board? have you found anywhere else to talk with people who have had toenail removal? it is not the most popular topic im sure.. i did not know what the toes would look like either when i had mine done.
bryguy 02-Apr-2008 22:04
totally with you on that one Guest. i am also the same way about my toes. i really never wear open toes. i am going to look into fake toenails i think. they make them for women but maybe they can make some for guys.
Guest 01-Apr-2008 17:34
Hi everyone, I am a 37 yr old who had both my big toenails removed when I was 28yrs old. I am so glad to not have that unbearable pain anymore. When I first had the surgery done it seemed like it was taking forever for my toenails to get to where they would be "normal looking". The fact is that to this day thay still don't look normal. Like I said, I am very happy not to have pain anymore but i am very unhappy with my feet. I feel self-conscious when I wear open toed shoes. My nailbeds do not look the same as each other, They are not smooth and it is quite obvious that I do not have toenails. I just wish i had explored other options before jumping on board so quickly!
Nailless 01-Apr-2008 13:07
RE: pensac ,
Dreft Laundry Soap, is the best thing you can do for those toes. You stated that they are hurting a little too. Putting this off can result in a bigger problem with your feet-toes.. INFECTION. I would rrather take care of a problem then start getting another one later from neglecting them.
Warm water soaks help the best, but the dreft also kills germs etc. by cleaning the area and taking care of it. We sometimes don't even know what it in our water. A clean towel once a day is a good idea too.
I know this toe issue isn't cheap, band-aids, stuff to place in the water for soaks, and treatments, but I would rather take care of the problem correctly so I didn't have to go through more problems later down the road.
Keep us posted.
pensac01-Apr-2008 08:51
Dear Nailess-you suggested Dreft Soap & Peroxid in your kind response. I'm not going to have availability to these products for a while. Can you suggest any substitutes that I may have around the house? I will stop with the Neosporin but I don't have a water base cream to use instead. I'll just be sure to keep the area clean & dry. I won't be able to get to the podiatrst until next week. Thanks very much for your help PENSAC
Nailless 31-Mar-2008 17:20
Hello to everyone who visits here.
Just to let you know, I'm not a doctor or anything. Just giving out my options on the toes. I have had all 10 removed on my feet and have been through a lots of problems withthe toes, health issues etc. Things I have leaarned, tried, read and also rescreached.. etc.
Proud to go with my toes showing nailless. WE all have learn things over the years on what works best and how things have healed better. That is why this board is here. I'm not sure who started it, I also stumbled on to it and started to visit it a lot and reading folks questions etc. Then one day another person who visits and I start to answer those qquestions from other not knowing things. I too was in that boat to start with.. and wondered what to do etc.
Please post your learnings and ideas, questions on the board also so we all can learn from each other. Welcome to post anytime.
Nailiess 31-Mar-2008 17:15
RE: pensac ,
I think its sound like you have some infection in these toes. Best bet is stop the Neosporin treatments. Try soaking your toes in DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP (1 tablespoon pre gallon of warm water). The water shoudl be as warm as you can stand and soaking should last for 15-20 minutes twice a day, but you may wish to start out with three times a day for the first couple of days.
Neosporin is a good productm but if applied to the toes, it seals off the drainage that is needed after the first week or so. Better to apply a water base cream then petrolium jelly types.. After healing completely, a light coat can be used to apply to soften the nail beds.
Peroxid can be used to clean the area and then try soaking.... This will also help drian the infection out. Pat dry the toes always. Then let them air dry 5 minutes or so before covering with a clean bandaid twice daily. If one can, walk with open toes shoes, like flip flops or sandles till the toes heal up. Placing them in a pain of old shoes is not good either. Who knows what is living in there from before the toe nail removals. Best to let shoes dry out good. Good socks is a key also to good foot care. Keeping the feet dry and clean is very important.
If pain keeps up return to the doctor office who took the nails off, or the local E - R for treatment.
Keep us posted on here. Thanks. Good luck!
pensac30-Mar-2008 09:17
I just posted an inquiry & don't know how this site works. My email is welchlawrence@hotmail.com
pensac30-Mar-2008 09:14
Had nails removed on 2 toes(not the big toes), 2 weeks ago. Still having pain problems with one of them(off & on during the day & night). I soak in cool water, apply Neosporin & bandage twice a day. Should I still be having the pain problem?
Guest 29-Mar-2008 23:49
Nailless:
Thank you so much for sharing that info with me. Tonight, I soaked what seemed like forever in a tub of dreft. I found a toothbrush that belonged to my son (really soft bristles) and scrubbed these toes. I couldnt believe how much better they look and feel. I think that was my problem, they had way too much buildup on them. If I have any more questions, I know who to go to! Thanks again
Nailless 28-Mar-2008 21:23
Hello,
With toes nail removal everyone hasd a different healigtime. As for the feelnig, it's a little werd to start with as there is not nail ther like we are used to. The scab thing, mine had what I though were ccabs on them and I finally took my finger nail after a long soak and worked them off. They wher harden skin that after takig off , after several soaking to remove them as state earlier, they started tolook better. THey still have a dry skin look to them, but I have applied vasoline in a small amount a couple of times a week and also lightly sanded them off with a emory board carefully so they didn't bleed.
Some people wonder is fake nail can be applied etc. Well think twice about it.. Glue on skin and an area that can allow moisture to build between the fake nail and the skin.. Good place for fungis and also glue can damage the skin area.
I had my nails removed to rid of a problem and for safty reasons. Proud to shoe my toes!
Please Keep your post coming in and keep us up dated on your toes. If you have advice please post it.. we are all in this nail less thing together. :)
Bren 28-Mar-2008 18:22
Okay, it's been 6 weeks since both grand toenails were removed. The left one was the worse one, and it seems to be slower at healing. The right one is fine, looks really good. The left one has some tiny scabs on there. Can anyone tell me if the scabs are to be allowed to come on there? I'm just so ready to have some nice toes for a change. To me, these nailless toes look so much better than the "cow hoofs" I had! I will never be ashamed of my toes again!
Sheila 26-Mar-2008 22:40
I had my toenail removed on jan15th and i was worried about the iodine i wa told to apply a week lata but now i am so happy becuz my toe now has scabbed up, which according to the doc is really good. Im happy cuz i dont have ot go back to see him anymore . I jus have to wait a couple more weeks for the scab to fall off. Soakin it in dreft is a great idea so thanks for that suggestion i got off of here. Im a stay at home mom so i can walk around all day without a bandaid on to let it get air. The only thing im still worried about is my nail possibly growing back n the toe not being fully healed by summer becuz i am a flipflop n sandal girl. For those who are fully done with this how long did it take before your scab fell off n your toe was healed up?
Brittany 25-Mar-2008 15:45
hey so i got most of toenail removed yesterday and it didnt bleed at all.. just feels really weird. does this go away ?
Nailless 23-Mar-2008 13:34
RE: BRITTANY,
a man here, but I have heard that a lady can paint the nail beds. When it comes to soaking the toes, DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP works the best. THat is safe and will not dry out the skin like Epusalt will. (1 tablespoon per gallon on water, I used 1 per dishpan here for my soaks)
Best of luck.
Brittany 22-Mar-2008 18:57
thanks i will. i get this done on monday. is there any other solution to make them look more normal? like does nail polish onm the skin actually do it justice?
Nailless 22-Mar-2008 03:55
RE: Brittany ,
One can go out in public as soon as they feel up to it. You will have to watch the toes so they don't get infected or anythiing. So keeping them clean is the big things. Bandaids are to be put on as instructed by our doctor.
As for putting fake nails on. That is a no no in my book. Glue used doesn't come off in skin and you are also putting something on your skin that can cause an allergic recation. Plus tyhere is the issue of fake nails on a toe. Well plastic covering a nail bed, now it can't breath like normal. Good place for fungis to grow.
I would think twice about them.
Keep us posted?
Brittany 21-Mar-2008 03:45
thanks for the info. Another question, how long does it usually take for the skin to look normal.. like that you could out in public? and can you put a fake nail on the skin or something to make it look better? i dont care if it ruins the skin .
Nailless 19-Mar-2008 22:50
RE: Brittany ,
the first night or so they tryo t have you stay off your feet, as so the open area seal over good. Then it's slow goin at first. You can walk, but all depends of what is and has to be done with your toes. Everyone is different. I wore and open toes shoe, flip flop for 2 1/2 months here. But had 8 toes done at once. An open toes sandle tht doesn't let any rubbing willl also work if you have a pair.
Healnig takes time, and being careful is the best way to recover safer. If in doubt, call and talk things over witgh your doctor. Ask questions and listen to what he or she has to offer.
Good luck.
Nailless 19-Mar-2008 22:46
RE: Happy feet,
I don't sand the toes till after I have showered and allowed them to be softer. Never has blood or bleeding. May try the soaking thing you are doing. DREFT Laundry Soap is the best soaking thing, one tablespoon per dishpan of warm water.(gallon). Even putting in the tub and letting yourself stand in the water while showering etc. works.
Brittany 18-Mar-2008 19:51
after you get a toenail removed.. can you put a sock and shoe on? and will you be able to walk? i am getting both my big toenals removed and i need to ne able to walk after
bryguy 16-Mar-2008 23:07
you really do seem to enjoy yourself and not focus on your feet Nailless.. that says something about you as a man. not everyone is like that though but it is cool that you are.
happy feet 16-Mar-2008 13:34
Nailless --

Several weeks ago I posted that my toenails are being removed one at a time, 2 or 3 weeks apart. Tomorrow morning the eighth nail comes out.

Have you ever had calluses on the bottom of your feet? Have you ever soaked your foot in warm water and then gently lifted and peeled away softened skin layers of those calluses?

The extra skin on your nailbeds is just callus formation due to irritation of the nailbed from the surgery. Mostly as my toes have been healing, I have been removing these layers. However, even after the toes are completely healed, excess skin can still be removed the way you would remove it from a callus on the bottom of your foot:

Soak your foot for 20 minutes in warm water. Then use a toothbrush or your fingers to gently lift the edges of the extra skin. Very gently and carefully peel it away to the smoother skin underneath (without causing any bleeding).

You may need to repeat the procedure a few times, but, if your shoes are not rubbing/irritating the tops of your toes, then the nailbeds should become smooth and stay that way. My skin is not so young anymore, but this has worked well for me. I am delighted with the results.


Nailless 16-Mar-2008 00:32
Opps .. typos, I am not going to be bothered by wearing my flip flops , sandles etc. or with my toes showing in the air.
Nailless 16-Mar-2008 00:30
Last resorts is the complete removal of the toe nails.

I have had all 10 taked off and the last 8 got removed Spet 21, 07. I think with out then, even if they might look not so well. They aren't sore, hurting or in need of any more trimming, sanding of the nails etc. Plus it's was a health issue why they got removed.

I've have purchased a tool from AVON to lightly sand them, the nail beds, of dry/dead skin, etc. Applying a light layer of vasoline type products on them once daily (when the mood hits).

THey aren't that bad and wearing flip flip, sandles etc. are gonig to bother me as badly as someone seeing the yellow ugly nails that the fungis left. HAPPY with my toes, to a point. Just wish they never had a probelm and look nice and pink, but that isn't the way they are, so I live with them this way and enjoy life with out letting little things like this bother me as much as some.

Best luck with what you decide to have taken place with the nails there. Your toes, you make the call.
Keep us posted?
bryguy 14-Mar-2008 14:50
SoCalGuest... think about it before you do it really.. i mean i did that.. and the no nail look well to me is probably not any better than the fungus nail look.. but its up to you i guess.. if you can do anything like vinegar soaks or Vicks maybe try that first..
SoCal Guest 14-Mar-2008 05:32
Hi, I'm seriously considering getting 8 of my toenails removed due to years of a fungus problem. I've tried Lamisil, which didn't work! I've tried brush on antifungals & creams. Also, I even tried MSM & Biotin which my Podiatrist suggested could also work (many months ago). It worked for one of his patients, but it hasn't worked for me. I have tried to find sites with pics of feet with no toenails on them so I know what to expect. Can anyone recommend any site(s)? Also, I think that either way, I'd probably be embarrased, but with nail removal at least less people would probably look upon my feet with disgust. Advise please, thanks.
Nailless 09-Mar-2008 04:28
RE: Deb, start the soaks as sooon as possable with
DREFT 1 tablespoon per dishpan or gallon of warm water, 15-20 minutes soaks twice a day. I even put it in my tub to soak the body and it made it feel soft as well. This will help.
If the pain doesn't go away, call you foot doc and go see them again.
Good luck!
deb 08-Mar-2008 22:18
Hello, had my right big toenail removed 4 days ago..wasnt too bad, shots kinda painful. Tried to soak in epson salt, that set it on fire!! Think ill try the dreft det. ive been reading about. But woke up middle of night last night and it was hurting bad, burning, throbbing..redressed it, took painpill...not hurting much today. Think thats cause havent been soaked, or infection? taking antibiotics..also.
Nailless 07-Mar-2008 23:06
RE: Lori,
I would think twice about glueing super glue on any part of my body. It doesn't come off with out chemicals to remove it. Why start another problem if one doesn't have to?
bryguy 07-Mar-2008 02:30
I think you could do it.. they advertise them for use when you have your nail removed. how old are you? the fact that you can paint it is cool.. for a guy that would not work that well and the toenails ive see are mostly for women because they are painted and not natural looking but i have thought of maybe using the French Manicure type ones because maybe that would work if i wore sandals that didnt show too much of my toes.
Lori 06-Mar-2008 23:39
I had my right big toenail removed about 17 years ago. I've always painted it with nail polish to match my other nails but was thinking this year maybe I could get a fake nail put on. Well, I went to a nail tech today and she said she couldn't do it because the acrylic nail needed something (a piece of nail) for it to adhere to. I was wondering if I could do super glue and a fake nail from the store. Has anyone tried this? About how long would the nail stay on and is it hard to get the super glue off your skin? Could this cause problems with fungus? I'm embarassed if people look too closely at it cuz it looks different and doesn't match my other foot. Thanks for any help anyone can give me!
bryguy 06-Mar-2008 17:11
how is everyone doing with their feet and toes?
Nailless 03-Mar-2008 22:16
GRAND toe is the same as BIG toe.. that is what the foot doc call them GRAND toes
bryguy 02-Mar-2008 00:29
who calls them grand toes? to me they have always been big toes.
pagman 01-Mar-2008 22:42
Thank you for posting the photos and everyone's comments. The happy face at the end of procedure was especially helpful. :)

Yesterday, I had the toenails for both grand toes removed, and it didn't live up to my worst fears. I was concerned about the needles (two shots per toe), but my DPM went very slowly and other than a cooling sensation and a very slight tingling (he waited for me to tell him when it stopped), it was totally painless, as was the actual procedure. Nothing compared to previous dental work. Tourniquets were used so there wasn't any bleeding, and he used sodium hydroxide & vinegar for the cauterizing process.

Second fear, the pain afterwards. I went home and elevated my feet for the rest of the day expecting the pain to kick in. It didn't. I remained on in the recliner until bedtime (slept through the night, no discomfort). The bandages came off today and now it is just a matter of letting them heal. No soaking unless it looks like infection is setting in. Just twice daily applications of Gentamicin. .

I am among the ranks of the squeamish, but I have to say that this has not been bad at all. I wanted to post this to let others know that while the process can be painful for some, but it isn't universally so.
bryguy 29-Feb-2008 15:49
i really dont go barefoot with my nailess toes. not sure how everyone else feels but again for me.. its embarrassing to be barefoot. you still on yahoo man?
Nailless 28-Feb-2008 22:57
bryguy... how the toes? Been awhile since we talked. So ready ofr warmer weather os I can walk outside in with my nail less toes in my flip flops and sandles. :)
lightfoot 28-Feb-2008 22:55
Guess i'll try VICS before I decide to have anything removed here on my toes. Not srue what my doc will think, bjut my feet and toes.
If all else fails then I wil think about the removal but in warmer weather.
bryguy 28-Feb-2008 20:39
thats cool man. did not mean to try and intrude on you. just sometimes easier to talk that way. so what have you decided to do about your toes?
lightfoot 28-Feb-2008 17:00
i don't give out my e mail only ot those whoare family bryguy
bryguy 28-Feb-2008 15:26
hey lightfoot.. my email is tbud4258@aol.com. give me an email if you want to. i did the same thing man. with the sandals with the toes covered. i don't really go barefoot much.
Guest 2-27 28-Feb-2008 04:22
Hi this is a nice board. Who in here has their nails removed? I'mfacign a removal of a little toe nail and maybe the one next to it because of and accident skying that damaged my nails. Guess my question is, if they are removed do they regrow in ok? They are black under them now and lifting off my toes.
Nailless 27-Feb-2008 22:57
RE: lightfoot,
I have heard that VICS will work on toe nails for fungis problems but it's a long ordeal and must be done daily. Our daily news paper has articles in it fromDR. GOTT ,and there has been several things that VICS works for treating.
I have had all 10 nails removed on my toes.
lightfoot 27-Feb-2008 14:50
bryguy do you have any nails off? If so why? Did you do any medicinies for the toes? Do you go bare foot at all? If your nails are off what do they look like?
lightfoot 27-Feb-2008 14:48
I have tried several medicines on my toes. Someone told me about VICs and to apply it to the nail area. Anyone ever hear about this and if it works? Guess I'll try this first and see what happens. My docotor can wait fofr 6 months or so, that is if i decided I'm having them off. Sure he will not like my idea, oh well my toes.
Yes I do go bare foot, most of the summer in sandles, but the ones with the toes mostly covered.
bryguy 25-Feb-2008 18:03
did you try the meds lightfoot? how long have you had this and do you go barefoot much?
light foot 21-Feb-2008 23:29
hi people, just was at the doctors and he said complete nail removal. Anyone have their off completely? How long is the recovery period? Think he's doing it laser. Will talk more next week. Not sure if I'm up to have this down. Fungis problem in them. My just keep them like this rest of my life.
Not in view of public here so it's only what i see and the wife.
bryguy 17-Feb-2008 19:38
Bill.. how are your toes doing now? do you go barefoot much?
Terri 17-Feb-2008 18:36
Hi, I have had chronic ingrown toenails for many years, esp the big toe on the left. I am wondering if anyone here has tried a product called Nail Ease? It is a splint that you glue to the top of your toenail and it helps it to grow out without the curve. I have tried this a couple of times, but possibly not kept it on for long enough? Always within 6 months or so the curved ingrowing nail is starting again. At this point I am wondering if I should do what my podiatrist suggested and have the nails removed, or keep trying with the Nail Ease?
Bill 16-Feb-2008 23:18
Just an FYI for people getting toenails removed. My Doc charged $757 to do 2 nails. No further costs except for the medication that I apply daily (prescription). And boxes and boxes of "sp[orts" band-aids (2 each day).
Bren 14-Feb-2008 16:06
This is THE best site for anyone considering having this done! I am a complete baby when it comes to even thinking about things like having toenails removed, but after visiting this site I decided to go ahead with it. I had SEVERELY ingrown toenails that were absolutely killing me for about a year. Well, yesterday was the day that all my worries and pain was taken care of! I had both great toenails removed about 8:30 yesterday morning and it has been a breeze so far. Absolutely no pain at all. This morning I removed the bandages, started the soaks, and put the bandaids on. All pain free! I still feel little "pings" not really any pain at all. If your worrying about this surgery, DON'T!!! If I can do it, anyone can! Good Luck!
bryguy 12-Feb-2008 19:09
Anyone else out there embarrassed about their feet?
Nicole 10-Feb-2008 09:42
haha, Alright. I wish I could go back in time, and have never got the surgery done! I guess it didn't realize what a huge impact it would have on my apperence.
bryguy 09-Feb-2008 18:24
if anyone ever wants to email its Tbud4258@aol.com
bryguy 09-Feb-2008 18:16
well i feel the same as you do about the swimming and such.. some people don't seem to care but it does bother me to. i guess we would have to hang out with each other. hah. but for you at least fake nails might work.
Nailless 09-Feb-2008 05:17
If your embarressed about your toes with out nails and it bothers you to be seen with them out... Die your hair a bright color, like PINK or PURPLE. No one will see your toes.. :)
Val-toes 08-Feb-2008 18:31
I'm trying to decide about permanent removal of all nails after about 30 years of gross fungus. Anybody know where I can see pics of feet after healing from permanent nail removal? I wear flip-flops all the time and I'm worried about appearance. Maybe that's superficial, but I've been embarrassed by my feet since I was a teenager and now manage to hide with filing and nail polish. Would like to understand what it will eventually look like if I do. Also, I have arthritis in my feet - anyone know if there is any relationship between chronic fungal infection and joint issues in the feet? Thanks
Nicole 08-Feb-2008 05:52
Hi. I have had my toenails removed, and I have to say that I am completely embarassed. I have completely changed my lifestyle because of it. No more open toed shoes, no more swiming, I NEVER go barefoot. I have heard of fake toenails, and bought some at my local grocery store, but the glue is harmful to skin. What do I do to get a toenail? I want to be myself again. Can anyone help me?
lisa 08-Feb-2008 01:06
i didn't say why my nail has to come off. i glue fake nails on them and they got nassty fungis under them. now it a mess.
bryguy 07-Feb-2008 20:25
i feel like you do i think sometimes Guest1234.. but that is not the typical thing on this site.. seems like most people are liking their toes without nails.. i did not know they would look this way.
lisa 07-Feb-2008 05:32
nice site. anyone know what i should plan on afte nail removal is done? i'm to have my big toe nail taken off in and i still have to decide if i wish it done. help please?
Guest12345 07-Feb-2008 00:18
My nail si off on three toes, left foot little one to the middle. They are not nice looknig as they are dry and flakign all the time. Like baby feet, I don't think so... I have tried tooth brush and other thnigs. Still not looking good. My doctor said no ones toes will be nice looknig with out nails. But still he had to remove mine. Thanks to an automatic door rippig them partly of four years ago. He treated them at first, but they grew in funny and upwords and now right. They are gone for good now.
I HATE my toes!
bryguy 06-Feb-2008 16:26
that is good for you... sounds like you will now enjoy your feet more.
happy feet 05-Feb-2008 18:34
Bryguy --

I am finally getting rid of my ugly toenails.
My toes are becoming as clean and sweet as a baby’s toes! (They feel just that new to me.)
I am so pleased with them that I am showing them to anyone who will look!
Nailless 05-Feb-2008 18:31
Going bare foot... I wear flip flops and sandle all the time with out it bothing me to be with out nails. :)
bryguy 05-Feb-2008 06:42
so did anyone mind going barefoot?
happy feet 03-Feb-2008 03:13
Nailless,

The nails on my great toes were removed first -- one 11 weeks ago, and the other 9 weeks ago. The skin on both of those toes is fairly smooth and only a little thicker than the rest of the skin. As they were healing, I noticed the callus building up, but I did not want to remove it myself. The podiatrist did the removal with a blade.

The first time she removed it, only one toe was involved and I thought nothing about it. The second time she removed it, three toes were involved. I then realized what was coming with every future appointment! That was when she told me that I could use a toothbrush at home to do the job. I now use the brush, hoping to avoid the blade. . . .
happy feet 03-Feb-2008 00:02
During the early part of the healing period, while the toes are still draining, some buildup occurs on them despite twice-daily soakings and frequent elevation of the foot. This must not be allowed to thickly accumulate, because it will prevent free drainage, causing possible infection. Since I see my podiatrist every 2 or 3 weeks for another toenail removal, she has removed some of this buildup with a blade while I am there. She told me that I could remove it at home with a toothbrush -- very gently, of course! I have done this -- somewhat squeamishly -- and it definitely helps the healing process. I have soaked my feet in plain water, have not used any antibiotics, and have not had any infection.

The podiatrist also said that, when the toe is completely healed, the skin should not be callused, but soft and smooth like the skin on your leg.

After reading the various experiences of others who have posted here, I strongly suggest to anyone who is considering permanent toenail removal that your most important step is to find a podiatrist who is known to be reliable and conscientious. Secondly, keep the toes scrupulously clean during the healing period. If you and the podiatrist are both careful, you can prevent possible problems from occurring.

Five toenails down, and five more to go! I am so glad to be getting this done. I will never again have problem toenails!
Nailless 02-Feb-2008 23:59
RE; happyfeet,
I had one hail removed on a big toe, then later had the second one removed only to be told that they could have both been taken off at once. Two different Drs. First one I got rid of and got a second opion.
Then Sept 07, I had all 8 nail removed that were still left on my feet. THey took a good 12 weeks to completely heal up. No infections and soaked in DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP. That works well and also help make the feet feel good.
It skin being left like a leg, well I hope your are differnt then what mine are. They are a bit dry and look rough. With appling lotion daily it helps the look.
I also was glad to have no more nails left.
Good Luck. Keep us posted?
Nailless 02-Feb-2008 23:23
RE; ian stagg ,
Hope that you get it under control ther with your infection issue.
Best of luck.
happy feet 02-Feb-2008 23:20
During the early part of the healing period, while the toes are still draining, some buildup occurs on them despite twice-daily soakings and frequent elevation of the foot. This must not be allowed to thickly accumulate, because it will prevent free drainage, causing possible infection. Since I see my podiatrist every 2 or 3 weeks for another toenail removal, she has removed some of this buildup with a blade while I am there. She told me that I could remove it at home with a toothbrush -- very gently, of course! I have done this -- somewhat squeamishly -- and it definitely helps the healing process. I have soaked my feet in plain water, have not used any antibiotics, and have not had any infection.

The podiatrist also said that, when the toe is completely healed, the skin should not be callused, but soft and smooth like the skin on your leg.

After reading the various experiences of others who have posted here, I strongly suggest to anyone who is considering permanent toenail removal that your most important step is to find a podiatrist who is known to be reliable and conscientious. Secondly, keep the toes scrupulously clean during the healing period. If you and the podiatrist are both careful, you can prevent possible problems from occurring.

Five toenails down, and five more to go! I am so glad to be getting this done. I will never again have problem toenails!
happy feet 02-Feb-2008 23:17
For years my toenails have been in bad condition, but I simply lived with it until this year. In addition to nail fungus, one large toenail (which had previously fallen off twice) had not needed clipping for 5 years because it would not grow in length -- only upwards. It had become over ½” thick and was pressing against the top of my shoe. The other large toenail became ingrown and the toe began to hurt. The little toes on the outside of both feet each had double toenails on them, etc. I began to seriously consider permanent toenail removal and found this site. The photos of the procedure were very helpful to me, so that I would know what to expect.

I made an appointment with a podiatrist who has an excellent reputation in this area and told her that I wanted to have all my toenails permanently removed. I had thought that this could be done in two appointments, one foot at a time. However, she informed me that she would never do it that way and, besides, my insurance will cover the surgery only if one nail at a time is removed, not less than two weeks apart. When I asked her about the possibility of regrowth of the nails, she said that she has never had a nail grow back again.

Now that I have had 5 toenails removed during the last 2 ½ months, I can easily understand why it is best to do only one at a time. First, your entire foot cannot be anesthetized. Each toe must be separately numbed with 3 or 4 injections. Also, because of gravity, your body drains downward. For a healthy person, the average healing time for the large toes is about 10-12 weeks, and for the smaller toes it is about 6-8 weeks.
ian stagg 02-Feb-2008 15:24
Hi Ian here
Still not able to put my left foot down, very swollen and painful.
Going back to the doctors daily to have foot redressed.
Dont think stiches will be out Monday due to the infection.
Jason 01-Feb-2008 15:56
I am 43. My DPM explained the procedure, but these pics really say it all! I guess my "matrix" is fouled from an injury years ago, so gotta do a permanent removal. As a truck driver, I hope I can walk normally after 3 days. We'll see.
bryguy 01-Feb-2008 15:22
Jason.. how old are you? email Tbud4258@aol.com
Jason 01-Feb-2008 05:01
Thanks for all the comments here. I have to have my left big toe nail removed permanently next week. Very apprehensive about it. Pain, recovery, etc. Seems like a wide variety of experiences from the same procedure. My toenail grows UP and curves down the sides. Need to do this, thanks for the pics and ALL the comments, they really helped.
bryguy 31-Jan-2008 17:39
they put the nails on at the salon? have you had this done before?
AB 31-Jan-2008 16:53
Actually there are quite a few layers of super glue so it looks like its own nail. Back to the doctor?
ian stagg 31-Jan-2008 12:54
Hi, went back to the doctors,I have an infection in my left toe,they gave me a course of Augmentin.Still taking pain killers.They told me the pins and needles were nothing to worry about, just there are lots of nerves in the toe area.Not able to put my foot down yet,due to being to painful.
Daytime televsion is so boring.
Good luck to all who have this procedure.
Take care
Jenny 30-Jan-2008 21:55
I had a big toenail removed in October and I commented on the board then. I just had 2 more removed 2 days ago ( the big toenail, and the one beside it) and the pain was pretty bad the first night. The recovery is different for me the second time versus the first time, which is kind of strange. I had swelling this time and more bleeding, but the actual pain seems to be a bit less than the first time. I just had really bad pain the first night but after that it has been pretty decent. The pain was so bad the first night I couldnt sleep at all. I'm hoping it will heal good, and I will report back in a few days. I just have one more toenail to go, to have removed, and then pretty soon I will be able to get fake nails put on at the nail salon, and hopefully this summer will be my first summer in ten years (since I was 20) where I can go swimming, and wear sandals. Yea!
Julie 30-Jan-2008 00:24
hi AB you ever put nail polish remover on a cotton ball and quickly take it off.. Just wash the area well after words. I would never put a fake nail of my toes with out them. Why start a problem that has been corrected?
My bf and I don't care how they look because we see other thing about each other that are more important.
AB 29-Jan-2008 20:33
I used the regular ones & painted them. I don't know what I was thinking putting super glue on my toe.
bryguy 29-Jan-2008 20:05
what type of fake toenails did you use? painted ones?
AB 29-Jan-2008 20:04
I had my ingrown toenails removed last year and one has completely fallen off. I did use a fake nail and it worked great; however, now I can't get the super glue off my toe! Any suggestions? Thanks.
Nailless 29-Jan-2008 16:38
RE: ian stagg ,
Wish stickes you have ot keep it covered for a period of time. Best thing to do is call you foot doctor and talk it over with him concerning the bandages. You might need to return and have them re-applies with fresh - clean ones.
With the nail removed with out stiches, I was able to soak the toe after 24 hours and re apply a clean dressing. As for the pain your having, It maybe because of a shot to numb the toe area hitting a nerve. Might be sbest to tell the doctor that your having a pain problem with the foot where he or she worked on too.
Better to ask questions to let them know you concerns, as the doc/nurces can't help you if they aren't aware of a problem or problems.
WEt whips or baby whip, or even a clean wash cloth will alow you to clean the part of your foot where the wound isn't.
Good luck and keep us posted on how your donig on here. Feel free to also answer questions and concerns of other too as the board is a free space for everyone to learn and share thnigs they have learned about toes/feet.

ian stagg 29-Jan-2008 13:39
Had both big toenails removed under general, 5 days ago.The right foot - caused no pain.The left foot as really,really hurt.I have pins and needles shooting up my leg,cannot put my foot on the floor,without sharp pain.Taking Kapek and Ibuprofen daily.Have been told to keep bandage on for 10 days, dont wash it.I then go and have my stitches out.I feel dirty not being able to wash my feet.I expected pain, not this much.Hospital gave me a sick not for 2 weeks,I thought I would only need 2 days off!
Would it be wrong of me to soak my feet,take off the bandages,and re-dress them with clean ones, mine have dried up blood all over the big toe area?
Starting to get me down a little now!
Looking forward to being able to wear normal shoes - Yiphee...
Nailless 26-Jan-2008 23:01
RE: Sheila,
iodine This isn't a good idea, as it is burning the nail bed. Also Benidine, the stuff that they use before surgerys to clean the area isn't something that a doctor should be using in his office on any parts or wound after they started the healing . This will only make things worse.
A water based cream will do the same to keep the nail bed clean.
For the band aid problem: First of all always apply bad aids from the foot outword and then over the toe to the under side. Never allow a band aid to touch or over lap the ends, as this makes it harder to remove. Soaking the toe with a band aid on is the best thnig to do, even if it'[s by showering first with it on and letting it get wet to loosen it. You should us caution to keep the wound clean at all times.
Keep us posted here?
Guest 26-Jan-2008 22:04
this is for amanda...
After ur toe is fully healed u can paint the nail like usual or if u want u can put on acrylic nails. One of the receptionists at my docs office showed me hers n it didint look bad. It makes me hopeful about mines.
sheila 26-Jan-2008 22:01
I just had my right big toenail removed on the 15th. of this month. I went to the doc this past tuesday for my 1 week checkup n he said to start putting iodine on it. The iodine is burning like crazy when i apply it n now soaking it hurts really bad too. Pulling the band-aid off is painful too but im guessin thats cuz of the buildup overnight when i dont get to soak it. Any sugestions concerning the iodine. Im thinking bout doing the dreft thing also.
Nailless 26-Jan-2008 21:07
RE: mtairyed,
I have to soak 2X per day in Epsom Salts and see my doctor in 10 days.

Well just to let you know something I learned. Epson Salts is hard on th skin and a foot-wound doctor told me to use DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP, 1 tablespoon per gallon of warm water for soakiing, I used it per dishpan of warm water for my soaks. It works so much better and also does what Epsom Salts does but not as harsh. I have even plug the tub and put water in it while showing with Dreft in it. THen after a while let the lug out. My feet are so much softer after DREFT soaking.
Be careful of the pain pills. Don't use then unless you can't get releif of pain from a simple over the conter pill, medicine like Tylanols.
Keep the board posted on your progress? Good Luck with te recovery.
mtairyed26-Jan-2008 19:18
Of course I forgot to post what state I live in...
Maryland.
mtairyed26-Jan-2008 19:16
I just had this procedure performed. It was done at 9 AM on a Friday. I had both large toe nails removed. About 2/3rds of each nail was attached to the nail bed. The other 1/3rd was lifted off due to fungus. Once the toes were determined to be numb, the actual removal only took about 15 minutes. The needles were a slight pain, but the doctor first applied some sort of alcohol on the skin in order to lessen any discomfort from the needles (two per toe). I expected much more pain. I took a Vicodan at 2 PM, then at 6:30 PM, then at 11 PM before bed. I only took one the following day, at 6 AM. It is now eight hours after that and I hardly feel any pain. I think any other pain medication will be unnecessary. I have to soak 2X per day in Epsom Salts and see my doctor in 10 days.

If you are looking for a good podiatrist, mine is:

Christine Kurkoski
Frederick Foot Care
301-663-3338
Nailless 24-Jan-2008 23:00
I have all 10 off and my grand toes or big toe nails look the best. The smaller ones are rough and have dry flaky skin on them, unless I treat them daily with vaseline type products. Anyone else with the same issuse?
Yes this board is nice to be able ot post and ask questions on. We can learn so much from each other. Keep the post coming?
Marc 24-Jan-2008 21:47
I want to thank you, I had both my great toe nails removed.
Becuase of your article I decieded to have them done, after years of abuse from being in construction, I could not hardly wear a pair of socks because they were so painful. Now there is no pain and unless you look real close you would never know there is no nail. Again thank you for the invaluable information you provided me.
Marc Penn
From Jamestown, CA
bryguy 19-Jan-2008 06:16
its cool man been very cool to talk to another guy who had his toenails removed.
Nailless 18-Jan-2008 18:04
Thanks Bryguy... common scence and been there done that once so we all need to share more here... Feel Free to drop a line everyone?
bryguy 18-Jan-2008 16:14
Nailless has some good advice for everyone here... he is a good guy to talk to.
bryguy 17-Jan-2008 16:49
i have seen the fake toenails for women and they do look good. have not really seen them for guys though.
amanda 17-Jan-2008 05:54
I just found out today I have to have my big toe nail removed. But I still want pedicures!!lol I wonder if I could glue a fake nail on lol. What do you ladies do about sexy peep toe shoes? does it look weird?
Nailless 16-Jan-2008 15:46
When I doubt about your feet, or other parts of the body with a problem.. or concern.. if you can't find an answer or answers, always call your familydoctor.. Better to be safe then have a bigger problem or concern down the road.
A doctor can't help if you don't ask him or her a question.. If it's a really bad problem and your office is closed go to the nearest Hospital E-R and get help. Never wait, as infection could start and other problems.
Best thingto do is write down a question on your mind or questions in some cases.. And or all the problems your having and take that paper with you to the office so you can read it to the doctor. We can for get so often when we are under stress of a doctor's visit.
Board welcomes other to ask and answer question and to post item concerning their feet. good or bad. We are here to hlep each other in our daily walks of life. :) May God bless you all!
Nailless 16-Jan-2008 15:40
RE: Pit,
I've read that Laser-medod sometimes doesn't completely kill the nail growth, and it is a burn like the chemicals.. My 10 nails are completely gone too now. Last 8 Sept 21, 07. I had them chmically removed.
As for healing like any other thing, it's a matter of time and some folks take more time the others. I finally got back in shoes in Nov from my end Sept operation. Wore flip flops for the other time. Mine was done in and operation room, only because of the other issues that had ot be monitored with my health , heart issue and breathing.
Just is the doctor orders soaking in Epn. Salt, don't as it dries out the skin on your ankles and feet to much and causes other problems. A wound care doctor and he's also a foot doctor say only DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP, (1 tablespoon to a gallon of aarm water). This is also a good thing for everyday soaking of the feet, etc. That is what I did and it helps greatly.
Keep us posted on the board? Good luck.
Nailless 16-Jan-2008 04:24
RE. Wendi,
Soaking them i Dreft Laundry soap, 1 tablespoon to a gallon of warm water once daily.
Wendy 16-Jan-2008 00:18
My mom had two toenails removed in Dec, they are itching really bad and are still really black looking. Qestion is Is this normal and what can help the itching???
bryguy 15-Jan-2008 20:08
why are you looking to get yours done? why do you want to be nailless?
Pit 15-Jan-2008 18:42
Hi

I am looking too for getting all my toneilas permanently removed. I have heard, that the laser-method is the best under the aspect of healing. Does anyone have experience in this field?
My bigegest fear is the time and duration of healing. Because all 10 toenails will be removed in one session there will be a general anasthetic. In about 9 weeks i have nice nailless toes too.
Pit 15-Jan-2008 18:42
Hi

I am looking too for getting all my toneilas permanently removed. I have heard, that the laser-method is the best under the aspect of healing. Does anyone have experience in this field?
My bigegest fear is the time and duration of healing. Because all 10 toenails will be removed in one session there will be a general anasthetic. In about 9 weeks i have nice nailless toes too.
Bill 13-Jan-2008 21:54
The reason my toe nails kept falling off is my job required me to run between floors of a 2 story building perhaps 200 times a day, up and down. The doc I went to said this was the cause of the nail problems. Once your nails fall off they never grow back in as solid as original. I did have a nail infection, which was treated succesfully with Lamisl, (at $1200 cost) but when the nails grew back this last time they curled REAL bad, and the doc said there is no treatment for curling nails, other than to remove them. So far so good, no pain, and the draining is minimail. But I haven't got the doctor's bill yet, LOL.
Nailless 13-Jan-2008 07:02
RE: daisy71 ,
Well for havign them both done at once.. I say go for it.. why doctor one and then haveo t go back through it all over again. I had 8 off at once here. I wore an opened toe shoe that didn't hit my toe the first time, (GRAND TOES- done on at a time). Flip flops when I had them all done at once. Form the pain level it's not to bad. I soaked in DRFET LAUNDRY Soap , 1 table spoon of warm water for the first week and then once a day, 15- 20 minutes each time. Better then epinsalts. Foot Doctor/Wound Care advice.
For returning back to work well that is up to you. If healing is ok and your off your feet a lot abnd can put them up some. I would say in a couple of days or longer if need be for better recoverytime. Just make sure that they are kept clean and taken care of so infection can set, so other problems don't start.
I didn't have a lot os pain in my toes at all, just the shot sights in the grand toes. .. rest got done in and operation room becasue if health issues i have that need monitored...
Hope all goes well. Kee pus posted?
bryguy 12-Jan-2008 17:05
Bill... why are your toenails falling off? do you have a fungus? have you tried treatment?
daisy7112-Jan-2008 05:56
Today, my podiatrist gave me the option of using Penlac (again) or removing both my big toenails. Is it painful afterwards? I had the sides done to relieve ingrown toenails quite a while ago and that was very painful for me--throbbing and tender. Not sure I want to go through that again!
I work in an office. What would you recommend wearing on your foot to work during recovery? How long until I could wear my normal shoes?
How soon could I be comfortable enough to go to work? Also, would you recommend having both toes done at the same time? I think that is what my doctor wants to do. Thank you.
Bill 12-Jan-2008 02:19
My big toe nails have fallen off 4 times in the last 4 years, and now they are curling real bad. So today I had both of them removed. No problems. And it really didn't hurt a bit. My only complaint is that I ended up with a pair of bloody socks, since I had to wait 30 minutes at the Walmart pharmacy for a presciption.
Nailless 11-Jan-2008 23:48
With what I had done, complete removal now of all ten toes. Best thing to have taken care of with my other health problems. (back issues, and not able to bend with 2 rods and 6 screws in the lower back)
No more nail trimming or problems from them. :)
Rebekah 11-Jan-2008 21:52
Wow, Corri, so did I. Same day, too!
I have some numbness still from the nerve block. Kinda scares me. Should I worry?
Corri 11-Jan-2008 16:59
I just got my toenail taken off on monday, January 7, 2008. For the past couple years I have tried various forms of treatment and finally decided to get the nail removed. I think that was the best decision ever.
bryguy 11-Jan-2008 15:29
depends i guess on how you feel about it. i would say keep the nails and try to clear them with medication.
Guest 11-Jan-2008 04:30
My big toe just got it's nail removed and my docotr wishes to take off more down the road.. Should I allow him to do this? Fungis problems here. Not srue if my insurance will cover them all being done. Anyone ?
bryguy 09-Jan-2008 23:16
anyone out there to talk feet? tbud4258@aol.com
bryguy 08-Jan-2008 16:08
How are the toes doing guy? still not much barefooting for me.
Nailless 08-Jan-2008 04:10
Comments welcomed and your questions too...
Nailless 05-Jan-2008 01:04
RE: drmadef ,
Firsyt of all you do have a foot doctor worknig with you? If so ask his office if your insurance will cover the nail removal operation. I heard that the electric way isn't the way to go. I had mine done with Chemicals in an operation room for the one big toe, then i an office setting for one big toe and then this sept all the rest in the operating room, but i have other health issuse that had to be watched and check while this happened. Same Day Surgery.
For the pain, I had ameds but didn't take them. only tylenols for the fisrt day. THey used a ace bandage over my foot to help compress them the first day.. I used it three days and it helped greatly.
Read then board from earlier in the year, Sept and up to this point it may help you out.. Good Luck! Keep us posted.? Don't grind them yourself as infection could happen..
bryguy 03-Jan-2008 14:44
why does she want them off? i would take a look at some pics first to see how they look after.. have you tried Lamisil?
drmadef 02-Jan-2008 22:04
Hi I cant believe there is a toe nail removal chat but here I am. I need all 10 toenails removed or my girlfriend of 15 years is booting me. Plus I want them off too.
I have some questions for those who have been thru this.
1. Will any insurance pay for removal? I have Presbyt. (I dont trust the oral meds - not an option for me)
2. How painful is the recovery?
3. I was about to buy a dremmel tool to grind down the yellow bastards and then soak them in tea tree oil 3 x day - anyone know of an easier way?
bryguy 02-Jan-2008 20:16
well do you guys with no toenails just go out barefoot with people and are not bothered by it?
Nailless 01-Jan-2008 17:04
Post your questions, concerns and comments on the board? That is why it's here. Share about your feet - toes and learn from others.
Board is open for all ! Come back often and add to the Board.... :)
Nailless 31-Dec-2007 23:48
Yep happy with my feet and toes here... :)
bryguy 31-Dec-2007 16:11
How is everyone doing with their toenails or no toenails? do you guys like the way your feet look now? tbud4258@aol.com
Nailless 30-Dec-2007 17:25
RE. Guest,
Mine were done with chemicals. But the Dreft soaking really helped. One thing it doesn't do is dry out your skin, made mine very saft. Hope it all goes well for you there.
Guest 29-Dec-2007 23:17
Hey Nailess, did have them removed permenant. Getting the electric type shocks through them every ten mins or so and its getting painful. Will try the Dreft thing as at the moment i am just using the salts. Been told to keep dressings on them apart from when i am soaking and changing them. Got an appointment at the docs on 3rd january so will check then on infection if any. Thanks for your reply.
Nailless 29-Dec-2007 15:16
RE: Guest,
Did they premanently remove your nails? My toes drained for a while here but didn't bleed like that and it was for a short period of time, like 4 weeks. I soaked them twice daily in DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP, 1 tablespoon per gallon of warm water, or dishpan full here and soaked the toes for the first 2 weeks.
I left my toes air and wore flip flops for about 6-8 weeks here before putting socks on and shoes. Then it was for only short periods of time.
I would return back to the doctors for a recheck as it sound like you might have some infection in them. Better to be checked then let it go.
Keep us posted. Good Luck!
Guest 29-Dec-2007 01:41
Had both great toenails removed just over 6 weeks ago, both are still bleeding and oozing stuff everyday, getting like electric shocks through both toes, they are much more painful now than they were the first few weeks after getting it done. Is any of this normal? When will i be able to stop having to have dressings on them and wear proper shoes again? At the moment it really does not seem like it will ever be worth getting it done!
Nailess 24-Dec-2007 14:00
RE; Chuck,
I didn't have stictches in my toes, but know the feeling of the drainage problem. One thing to remember is petrolium (sp?) type based meds. seal off the would. A water base one will allow breathing and allow healing faster.
Using bandaids aan also cause damage on the toes. If one has ot put one on always run it from ther foot out and over the toe then uner it. Never apply one so that the ends touch each other as it is harder to remove and can cause damage to the wound.
I allowed my toes to be out inthe open, as I wore flip flops for several weeks before putting shoes on over the toes. Soaks in Drefl Laundry soap (one table spoon to a dishpan of warm water / soakiing 15-20 minutes twice a day for the first week and then reducing the soaks ot once a day the second week).
DREFT LAUNDRY SOAP was recomended by a foot-wound care doctor and works much better the Epuslts soaks, as the salt drying the skin and the Dreft doesn't.
If you have an infection issue, get to a doctor or E.R. for a consult.
Chuck good luck and keep posts on the board of how your doing? Same with others reading this we always welcome your thoughts and questions.
Chuck 24-Dec-2007 05:16
I had my left great toenail removed as a result of previous trauma. The nail would grow back partially and always seemed to catch on something and eventually fall off. I decided to put and end to this cycle of pain and regrowth. Unfortunately, the surgery has gone south. I am now in week 7 of postop and there is still drainage and I believe an inflammation or low grade infection. The DPM has prescribed two rounds of antibiotics, one of which is finished, and the other I am not taking. Thanks for all the good information on this site. I am thinking of a consult with an MD as I am beginning to lose confidence in the DPM. I think there is still some nail left and he has indicated he will use silver nitrate as a next step to kill the tissue. Does this sound correct? He took no stitches where the nail came out, and I think this omission has slowed healing and allowed bacteria to enter the wound. Any thoughts on this idea? What to do next? Any help at all would be appreciated. Thanx, Chuck
Nailless 23-Dec-2007 06:03
Well since my Sept 21 st 07, nail removal of the remaining nails on my toes, as of today, they are all free of any scabs etc. I worked this weeks to soften the nail bed area with vasoline and then today i soaked the toes and worked off the callus area on the toes that had been left with scab looking things. Then a light sandnig with a emry board on the rough spots. Applying vasoline to the area for a week or so till they look better, less dry.
So far my nail less toes are looking great. I don't miss my nails etc. THen fungis problem in the larger ones that got taken care of year or two ago was not helped with any meds I tried. Now I'm happy with my feet. (knock on wood).
Nancy my pleasure ....glad i could help you. This board is great!
Nancy 23-Dec-2007 02:05
Thanks Nailless. I haven't used a brush either. When I questioned the doctor about that, he made a remark about it just being skin, and you can brush your skin with a soft brush. I replied...... but I have enough sence not to drag it over an open wound. Maybe when it heals a bit. I do however gently go around the cuticul after soaking to keep it clean with an orange stick and that has been working for me. I have never heard of Dreft laundry soap. I will look for it on my next trip to the store. My doc said I could soak in dish soap or epsen salt and water. I have been using the dish soap twice a day. He also gave me a prescription for Ertaczo 2% cream to apply over the nailbed before replacing the bandage. I initially had a fungus problem for 2 years that both Lamisil and Spornox could not wipe out. Every day is getting better and I hope I never have to do this again. This is a great site and having the pictures and reading everyone's comments helped me get though this. Thank you to eveyone and to Nailless. I hope you have a great Christmas.
Nailless 22-Dec-2007 00:59
Thsi is a great web site for us to post about our questions, and about our toe, feet problems. It's great to share, laearn and if we have a question, be able to asked it and find answers here from others.
PLEASE POST COMMENTS FOR THE BOARD, AS THEY AREA ALL WELCOME HERE?
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year 2008!
Nailless 22-Dec-2007 00:55
RE: Nancy,
I read that someone else was to use a brush on the nail bed, but think that they didn't do it either. I sure wouldn't do that. UGH! and OUCH! Hope that everything heals ok for you. Know it's not a fun ordeal, but sometimes the out come is better then the before. I had 8 off premanently Sept 21, 20007.
I worked a littel on they today to make them look better. Still one healngi, but because of the doctor digging out a peice of nail after the removal took place, so it's taking longer to heal. Go back and read about soaking the feet in Dreft Laundry soap. That came from a foot and wound doctor himself. And I tried it and it works better then epusalt, that only dryings out the skin onthe foot and causes other problems.
Best of luck with the toe. Keep us updated here?
Nancy 21-Dec-2007 17:27
Success...I went through the surgery (big toenail removed) at 3:00 pm. The shorts did hurt like hell, but after the toe was numb, I didn't watch and after a few minutes it was over. While the doctor cleaned the area, he instructed me that I had to do the same twice a day after soaking my foot. That sent a chill up my spine! Last night was very uncomfortable after the shots wore off. It helped to keep my foot very elevated and I put an ice pack over the top of my foot. I finally got some sleep and woke up feeling much better. This afternoon I have to soak and clean/brush the nail bed with a soft bruch and orange stick and I am not looking forward to that. Did anyone else have to do that twice a day? I read throught the comments and I didn't see any reference to that.
Nancy 20-Dec-2007 18:45
Thanks Nailless, that helps. I also did some checking on my doctor and I lost a bit of confidence. He had disciplinary action in 2000 from the Board of Pharmacy because he sold controlled substance via the internet without performing a physical or a history. He also had something else in 2004 that he was disciplined for, but I can't tell what it was. It is not like this is brain surgery, I am just squeemish on this one for some reason. I'm going to my appointment, but if he looks the tinyest bit shady to me, I'm going to pull the plug and get out of there.
Nailless 20-Dec-2007 14:20
RE: Nancy,
\ I've had 10 total nail removals. All but one was done with me being out. The one that was done in te office, they sprayed the numbing stuff on my toes-foot area before the shots happened. Like any shot it burns-stings when it first goes in, but soon the medicane numbs the area. It's not that bad when they remove the nail and hurts some afterwords, but the pressure bandage help with that.
Like gonig to a dentist thinking about it is worse then what really happens and it's over with and done in short order. Don't worry about it and it will be fine.
Keep us posted? Good luck!
Nancy 20-Dec-2007 06:08
OK, I'm having my big toenail removed tomorrow. I am freaking out. I have had 7 surgeries on my feet, but I was asleep for them. Does the local anesthetic work? Does it hurt to have the shots? I am not having the toenail permanently removed, so no pheno buring. But does the procedure hurt a lot afterwords? My doctor said it doesn't, but I'm guessing he has never had his toenail removed. Anyone care to share the truth?
Guest 19-Dec-2007 19:00
Thanks for the detailed pictures!! You've got great sports for a doc & his staff, for letting them be posted on the web. Like some of the other comments and had pretty substantial parts of the outside of my nails removed 11 years ago. It's just not working out and I'm thinking of total removal too. Thanks again for the information including some of the names of the anesthesia and the growth area inhibitor. It will help when approaching my questions to my doctor!! KW in Colorado
Nailless 17-Dec-2007 13:07
How do you toes look with out nails? Anyone one there have them all removed. Mine were all removed , 8 recently, Sept 21 on this year. There are still some with scabs but it's because they got injuried while healing and will take a little longer ot heal completely. Rest have a callus like top now on them. Anyone else????
Nailless 14-Dec-2007 22:47
RE: Debs,
I soaked my toes, but didn't have stitches in them. I would follow Doc's orders. Wait for the healing. When she go back to be checked, they may tell her something diferent , like soaknig the feel-toes. If it's more painfull as days go by, then return to be checked. Just paly it safe. It all takes time.
Keep us posted...
debs 12-Dec-2007 22:52
my 15 yr old daughter had a big toe nail removed today and it looks really painful, what i can see of it1 its wrapped up in a bandage and is staying that way for a week when she has to return to the hospital to have the dressings changed. Its worrying me as im reading about other people soaking their toes etc ... her stitches are due out in two weeks ... boxing day
Jen 11-Dec-2007 12:05
bryguy my toenails were all growing in a circle. instead of a regular nail they were growing in a circle that was cutting in to may skin and hurt bad, i thought they could just cut both sides and keep the middle but he said they would grow back the same. i do not regret this surgrey at all, i am thankful i did,
ouch 11-Dec-2007 08:14
i accidentally lose my big toe's nail. It was crushed by a see-saw (not an ordinary see-saw..but a very big one.) it hurts a lot now. The doctor in our school just placed betadine on it and gave me some medication to drink. I don't know what to do.. help pls..
Nailless 09-Dec-2007 20:35
RE: Jen,
Sound like you have a bad infection starting in your toes. Call your foot Dr. or go the E-R and get medical help right away.. Don't wait!
bryguy 09-Dec-2007 16:50
why did you have all of them removed? how old are you?
Jen 09-Dec-2007 08:58
i recently had all of my toenails removed, yep all 10. and they put a acid on them where they will never grow back, well its been 2 weeks now and they were great and been taken care of until twodays ago. my toes are so swallon, puss coming out and red and red lines going from my toe to my foot, hurt and tingle, and get really numb. what in the heck is going on?
Guest 07-Dec-2007 03:48
I had my right big toe removed early this morning. The surgery was a breeze. Everything seemed fine until the freezing wore off. I've had two naisl removed before (not permanetly) and the pain Im feeling is incredible. I need to use crutches. It feels like my foot is in a deep fryer. I've had two hours of sleep in the last two days and can't seem to sleep because of the pain.

Im just curious if anyone else has had this experience? Im wondering if I should go to the hospital or not. Is it possibl the bandage was put on two tight?
Guest 03-Dec-2007 00:54
I ride motorbikes so i need to have my left big toe nail removed as the pain is to much. i have had them done 6 times before.. on friday its for good
Kim 01-Dec-2007 23:45
I had my right big toenail removed 2 weeks ago and it is just starting to heal. I Have soaked it twice a day in a white vinegar and water and kept triple antibiotic on it constantly. My Doc advised that the cleaner you keep it the better the healing. I'm finally adjusting to the fact that I will be nailess this summer, I love my sandels. In spring I will be joining the "press on" nail club with many other people in the same boat. I tell you, anything is better that the nail fungus I struggled with for 2 yesrs.
Guest 01-Dec-2007 22:48
hi all
informative site, thanks to ibliss for this.
had this done a few weeks back on both great toes. One is discharging stuff and not too painful. Other is really painful, kinda purple and has no discharge. Does this point to an infection you think?
bryguy 01-Dec-2007 16:15
i dont think the pain is much at all.. you can basically just do what you were doing before.. you can walk and all from what i remember.. its how they look after is what i don't care for.
bryguy 01-Dec-2007 16:14
i dont think the pain is much at all.. you can basically just do what you were doing before.. you can walk and all from what i remember.. its how they look after is what i don't care fot.
Guest 01-Dec-2007 00:10
I'm afraid to go through the procedure cause of the after pain I think. How long is the healing process and is it painful? I just have to get the inner corners of my big toes clipped but I'm scared i wont be able to walk properly.
bryguy 30-Nov-2007 15:07
for me its about being comfortable being barefoot. which im not.. so i thought hanging out with someone else who had no toenails would be a way i could be barefoot and comfortable.. didn't mean to bother anyone or get off topic on the board.
scot 30-Nov-2007 14:57
Am i missing something?
Guest 30-Nov-2007 14:53
I have been also contacted by a person who leaves a e mail address.
scot 30-Nov-2007 13:14
re: Nailless
Who is using it to "get off on them" as you put it?
As far as i am reading its just general chat about how people are feeling about their own toenails/feet and how they look.
scot 30-Nov-2007 13:02
re: Nailless
Who is using it to "get off on them" as you put it?
As far as i am reading its just general chat about how people are feeling about their own toenails/feet and how they look.
Nailless 30-Nov-2007 12:35
Guess some have Foot Festishes....
What turns people on about feet.
Mine are just normal nail less toes now, but to others they see more in them.
Not sure what! Thought this board was to talk about ones feet, and ask others for their help from what they did and knew on having their own worked on..
Not using it to get off from them.


scot 30-Nov-2007 11:16
What is it that bothers you about yours?
Mine will look better as they were noticabley ugly and ingrown, discoloured and painful. Anything is going to be better than that.
I am 41, how old are you?
Guest 29-Nov-2007 19:03
had it done a while ago and yes.. do not like showing them off now. not sure how you think they will look better for you but if you are not bothered by them then that is cool. how old are you?
scot 29-Nov-2007 17:49
Re: bryguy
How long ago did you have yours removed? Was yours due to fungus?
I take it you are embarrased about how they look now?
scot 29-Nov-2007 17:44
Yep just had the two big toenails removed. They were very ingrown, ugly looking and painful. No nail fungus at all though thankfully. I know i am going to feel much better about showing my feet when they have healed.
bryguy 29-Nov-2007 16:18
so you just had 2 big toes removed because they were ingrown? did you have toenail fungus?
scot 29-Nov-2007 11:49
I would have thought having horrible infected or ingrown toenails would be so much more embarrasing and noticable than not having nails on your toes. I am looking forward to showing off mine next summer! :-)
Nailless 29-Nov-2007 03:20
Why be wmbassed about one's toes. Your personallity should shine brightly and other wouldn't even look down at one's feet... Relax so the nails are gone...
bryguy 29-Nov-2007 00:53
any guys embarrassed by their toes? email tbud4258@aol.com
Nailless 29-Nov-2007 00:48
RE: Scot,
I was able to start soakig my toes/feet the second day, as theat is when my foot docotor had me remove the first bandages. THen i soaked them twice daily in the dreft/water mixture. Allowing it to air dry after patting them partly dry. Make sure you use a clean towel too.. Grems can hide in a dirty one and start infection. I used small hand towels.. Then apply a coating of medication to the surface, but vaseline type meds hold moisture in them and that isn't good. Mine is water based and was from a wound care doctor. Cloth Band-Aid twice daily.. THey wil leak and be runny for awhile. I soaked them for the first week, 2 daily, then second week once daily.. Wore flip flops for abot 5 weeks or 6 , but i had several toes done at once.
Good Luck!
Guest 29-Nov-2007 00:47
to any guys who have had this done and are embarrassed by their feet, anyone want to email tbud4258@aol.com. the only thing that looks like it might work a bit are the false toenails but they are more for women i think.
scot 29-Nov-2007 00:15
re:nailless
How long after having your nails removed did you use the Dreft? Were you able to use it right away?
I have only to soak toes and change dressing every second day. Even though i had the dressing changed for the first time this morning, not long after i got home it started leaking all the way through. Don't want it to end up sticking to my toe (my biggest fear at the monent) so going to change it again today. Everyone seems to be given different aftercare advice for some reason.
Nailless 28-Nov-2007 17:56
RE' HELP!
My big toes are healed from removals coupl;e of years ago.. They look pinkish and aqlmost like a nail is kindaa still there. If the skin get a little dried out applying a thin coat of vaseline on the surface a couple of times a day helps that issuse, but that isn't a daily thing, only when they look dry.
If the fear of the removal is bothering you, remember i had all 10 done and one twice bacause of a regrowth in a corner area. Better in the long run wwith the end results.
I wear flip flops and sandle all the time in public and view of other and it's not and issue for me of ambarrassment for my toes to show with out nails. There are other good reason about me that shows more to those around me. :) Alway keep your chin up and step proudly in your daily walk in life!
Nailless 28-Nov-2007 17:49
RE: Scot
Soaking ones foot/toes in Dreft Laundry soap is what a foot doctor uses. This doctor is also a Wound Care Specialest. I used the salt water but it dried out my ankles and other areas of my feet, so I tried the Dreft and it works even better .
It's 1 tablespoon per dishpan of warm water, soak 15 - 20 minutes twice daily for a couple of weeks if that long. My bandages got changed twice daily here, cloth Band-Aids. Make ssure you run the band-Aid from your foot outword and then over the nail area and under the bottom side of the toes. It's easier to removed them and to apply them that way. Keep us informed how thigs are going for you and your toes?
Help! 28-Nov-2007 14:14
Re: Nailless

So what does the toe look like without the nail? Is it something that will also look bad? I've seen some women on this forum post that they just paint their skin with nail polish, but that is not an option for most men. Also considering I have a nail growing there...is there anything that can be done to restore it to normal? It shouldnt have been taken off in the first place. I wasnt having tons of ingrown toe nails...I only had 1, and the doctor took my nail off! That P.O.S. asked me an 8 year old, just after giving me that horrible injection (way worse when you are that small) if I never wanted to have that experience again. Of course I said no!
scot 28-Nov-2007 11:00
Thanks nailess.
Got the first dressing off this monring. As they have been on 6 days i thought they would be stuck and it would be sore to remove but was the opposite! Came off easy, got them cleaned and new much thinner dressing put on. Toes also looked better than i thought they would too. I have to bath them in salt water and change dressing every 2 days. I read about others bathing their toes in Deft washing detergent! Is that right?? I asked my chiropodist about it and she was horrified at the thought.
scot 28-Nov-2007 10:42
Thanks nailess.
Got the first dressing off this monring. As they have been on 6 days i thought they would be stuck and it would be sore to remove but was the opposite! Came off easy, got them cleaned and new much thinner dressing put on. Toes also looked better than i thought they would too. I have to bath them in salt water and change dressing every 2 days. I read about others bathing their toes in Deft washing detergent! Is that right?? I asked my chiropodist about it and she was horrified at the thought.
Nailless 28-Nov-2007 00:08
RE: Scott
Go back ad read some of the thing I posted about how I took care of my toes. Hope you have good luc kwith them and they all is well in the end for you. Keep us posted on heree of how your doing..
Nailless 28-Nov-2007 00:06
RE: Helps post 11-26-07
If I was you and had a stub looking like that I would see about finid another foot doctor or retrunnig to the one you have. Your family doctor's offivce will help you locate one if you ask.
Yuo should go and have that premenently removed off your tow if it's so embassing to you.
I now have 10 nailless toes. Just waiting for the scabs to come off the last 3 tt, as they has more damage since the surgery.. on Spt 21 07. Can'twait to see them completely healed up. HAPPY WITH MY TOES!! Flip flops etc. and they can be seen. :)
scot 26-Nov-2007 23:55
I had both big toenails removed 4 days ago. For anyone who is getting this done and is worried then let me tell you the surgery is not too bad. Like others have said the worst thing is the numbing jags, they do really sting, only lasts for about 10 seconds though. I took my ipod and a magazine in with me so it took my mind off what was happening but i didn't feel a thing. Was a bit painful after the numbness wore off but i took 2 nurofen and was fine. Havn't had anymore painkillers since then. Not sure what they will look like long term but got to be better than having swollen red painful ingrown toenails to deal with.
scot 26-Nov-2007 23:48
I had both big toenails removed 4 days ago. For anyone who is getting this done and is worried then let me tell you the surgery is not too bad. Like others have said the worst thing is the numbing jags, they do really sting, only lasts for about 10 seconds though. I took my ipod and a magazine in with me so it took my mind off what was happening but i didn't feel a thing. Was a bit painful after the numbness wore off but i took 2 nurofen and was fine. Havn't had anymore painkillers since then. Not sure what they will look like long term but got to be better than having swollen red painful ingrown toenails to deal with.
Help! 26-Nov-2007 21:17
I had this surgery done like 15 years ago. I cant remember exactly when. Im only 24 right now, had it done when I was very young. It has been the most horrible and dreadful decision of my life. An awkward looking stub grew back...it looks disgusting and discolored and I almost never take my socks off (very self-conscious about this..and for good reason, Ive had people laught and point). Worst thing is I live by the ocean and I never go to the beach..I just cant do it.

For years I have done nothing about it. Mostly because I have held a slight bit of hope that there was something that I could do about it...but I didnt want to find out that there is nothing. Please can someone tell me what I can do???
Nailless 24-Nov-2007 18:12
Does anyone still read this board here? No posts recently to view.. Share you thoughts poeple that is why it's here?....
Nailless 20-Nov-2007 22:06
RE: Grace...
Try soaking it in warm water with a dreft laundry soap, 1 tablespoon per gallon. Let it soak for 20 minutes or so, make sure yur water isn't to warm before placning your foot in. If that doesn't loosen your bandage, go to the nearest E.R. and seek help, don't wait becasue of infection that could happen. Then make sure you retrun to your foot doctor for her to recheck things.
Keep us posted on here please?
grace 16-Nov-2007 16:16
Hi, I had my great toenail removed two days ago, because of dropping a heavy glass bottle on it, and breaking my toe into many fragments. The toenail was like a dome on my toe, so swollen and bloody underneat. It was really easy for the podiatrist - she said it wasn't even attached anymore. Problem is, I can't get the bandage off and this is 2 days later. I have soaked for hours and hours and hours, poured hydogen peroxide on it and pulled and pulled, tenderly, due to quite a bit of pain. Does anybody have any more ideas. I have GOT to get this dressing off, and it seems like it just won't come off. Do I need to go back to the doctor? Thanks.
Nailless 16-Nov-2007 15:30
RE: Sam,
How are your toes doing? I'm starting my 9th weeks of recovery since my 8 toe nails got permanently removed. Been able to wear my sneaker this weeks. Makes two weeks since returnig to shoes again after wearing flip flops around.
My toes still have scabs on them and they are slowly but surely faling off. Not sure how many more weeks it will take for them to be completely healed.
I will do a week or so of vasile on the toes where the nails were to help take care of the dead skin areas.
Can't wait till this ordeal is over with, and I can look at my nail less toes with out anything on them. :)
Happy Holidays to all!
sam 13-Nov-2007 07:18
thank you Nailless, ill try that.
bryguy 12-Nov-2007 04:34
what is your email?
Nailless 11-Nov-2007 07:50
RE; Sam
Soaking daily in DREFT laundry soap will also soften feet and works better then eposalts does. The DREFT is to be use 1 tablespoon to each gallon of warm water. That is from a foot doctor him self. THE E-salt dries your feet out and will cause other problems..
sam 11-Nov-2007 02:56
in response to guest, i told my doctor that i wish not to have them grow back, but he said thats not up to me, on some people it will grow back and some it dosent, well i guess thats fine if they grow back normal, i just wonder if there are any tips that you guys know of to keep them growing back normal and healthy, its the two big ones, i soak my feet in warm salt water everyday for 20 minutes, u think this works?, thats what the doctor says, but id rather ask someone that have done this also, any tips would be greatly appreciated..thanks guys.
Nailless 10-Nov-2007 00:24
RE: Chuck
I'm not diabetic. Best thing you could do is have your family doctor line you up with a good foot doctor. You shouldn't be cutting your own nails etc., if your a diabetic, because of problems that can and are happening.
Better to be safe then sorry down the road.
Keep us posted on here please on how thing sare going. Good Luck to you!
Chuck 09-Nov-2007 05:16
are any of you diabetic? i am and have horrible ingrown toenails on both grand toes. they bleed all the time. any advice?
bryguy 06-Nov-2007 19:08
well i guess some people are not as comfortable with their barefeet and no toenails.
Nailless 05-Nov-2007 23:32

I agree with Joe Cool 100% read what I found and posted earlier (9-27-07) on faults nails and the dangers.

Fake nails, however, increase the danger of infection. Doctors and beauticians warn that acrylics, gel and even regular nail polish traps moisture in nails, encouraging fungal growth, particularly on toes, which are confined to dark, moist, warm shoes for hours each day. Fungal infections can color the nails brown and yellow; can cause an odor; and can cause the nails to grow up instead of out.

For this reason, some beauticians hesitate to apply acrylic nails to feet.

“We discourage people from wearing them,” said Gina Morgan, a nail technician and instructor at the International School of Skin and Nailcare in Atlanta. “The hard surface lifts the natural nail, separating it from the nail bed, and can do serious damage.”
Nailless 05-Nov-2007 19:11
Hi now in my 7th week since my nail removal surgery Sept 21 07. I had all my nail removed now, the two big toes had been done a year ago or more. Now the rest are off.
I got into a pair of workboots this past week after wearing flip flops and sandles around since the surgery and healnig has started.
The toes still have scabs on them and are looking better daily. The scabs are loosennig up on the ends of my toes but are held on where the nail bed is.
I can't wait till they are finally heal completely, and can see how my feet look since this has happened. I just hope that no part of any nails retruns, but my doctor said we will know in 12 weeks or so if that happens.
I wear flip flops in publis and sandles too and being nail less doesn't bother me a bit.
Proud of my nail less feet. :)
Joe Cool 05-Nov-2007 18:21
My Why would anyone wish to wear fake nails? Wouldn't it start other problems? I had the fungis nails removed to ride my big toes of a problem not start another one up. They don't bother me with out a nail so whats the big deal?
Joe Cool 05-Nov-2007 18:21
My Why would anyone wish to wear fake nails? Wouldn't it start other problems? I had the fungis nails removed to ride my big toes of a problem not start another one up. They don't bother me with out a nail so whats the big deal?
bryguy 01-Nov-2007 15:53
has anyone tried wearing false toenails?
Guest 10-2008 31-Oct-2007 11:59
Hi SAM,
If I were you I would ask the foot doc why he keep taknig off your toe nail and if it wouldn't be best to remove the whole thing premanently. It's a simple way to ride he nail completely and have the problem taken care of for good. Be careful that the fungis doesn't spread to the other toe nails.
Dr. Gott, say Vic Vapor Rub applied to nails with fungis will work in time if they aren't to bad. This take a long time to work but I guess it has help some. I never tried it personally.
Good luck.
bryguy 29-Oct-2007 13:59
Why do you have to get them removed like that. is it from fungus? how bad are they and do they grow back clear? i guess it just depends on how you feel about it. if you dont mind going without the toenails then i guess get them permanently taken off... but if you are embarrassed by it then try to keep them. Tbud4258@aol.com
sam 29-Oct-2007 07:45
Hey guys, i just had both big toenails removed couple of days ago, the doctor gave my lamisil to put on on a daily bases, my problem is that i get this done every few years and im really sick of it, i wish it wouldn't grow back at all but it does, the worst part of this really is getting that needle, what do u guys recommend for me to do to grow it back normal ........thank you very much
Nailless 28-Oct-2007 21:06
Has anyone had a nail removed other then the Grand./Big toe? Can you tell me what color the area is where the nail was since heating up?
Mine are still red looking after about 5 1/2 weeks. (Surgery Sept 21,07)

Please post?
Jenny 25-Oct-2007 13:45
I dont know about other people but my toe started to heal pretty good around the sixth or seventh day. I mean that it started to look more normal, skin color, and the tenderness went away. It has been almost two weeks and there is still some red near the base but 75% of my toe looks skin colored. I think alot of your recovery will depend on how you take care of it, if you work during your recovery time, and what type of work you do. I was fortunate enough to be able to take 10 days off, so that probably helped me. But I do work in heels so thats why I needed more time off. If I was wearing flat shoes I would have felt comfortable going back in 3-4 days. Just make sure you clean it, and take care of it, and it shouldnt be that long.
Guest 10-2007 24-Oct-2007 22:36
Just had nails off how long does it take for them to heal upad look like normal again.. UGH!! Anyone any answers? They said that they should never grow back either.
guest 23-Oct-2007 19:29
I have big time ingrown toenails. I have it on both big toes, and one of them has an ingrown on both sides. It's brutal.

I've scheduled a meeting with the doctor for this thursday to finally rid myself of the problem but I'm concerned on the cost issue and don't know how much something like this would run. It seems like a fairly simple procedure so you wouldn't think it was insanely expensive but you never know the way some doctor visits go. Anybody know a general price range?
bryguy 22-Oct-2007 15:41
everyone should post their email addresses here so maybe we can email sometime.
Guest 20-Oct-2007 19:10
would be nice to be able to get barefoot again and just relax.. but i still think its embarrassing.
Jenny 19-Oct-2007 13:18
I guess I never used Lamisil because at the time I didnt really know what it was and stupidly I was too embarrassed to show anyone my feet, even the doctor! I thought it would go away on its own by the nail falling off and a new one regrowing. After I started doing alot of research, my infection was too bad to be cleared by something like lamisil topical. My podiatrist said the pills only have a 30-50% success rate, and its hard on your liver etc. so I had to get it removed. Its my 7th day now and I'm healing pretty good! My wound is mostly all skin colored already, aside from one red spot, and I had no leaking, infection or bleeding (aside from the first day)
bryguy 19-Oct-2007 00:17
Why did you not use Lamisl instead of getting them removed? I know what you mean about the swimming and everything... alot of people say..its just feet and blah blah but really..it does bother some of us more than others i guess.
Jenny 18-Oct-2007 15:10
Thanks for the info Nailess.. well I'm on my 6th day post op and my toe is starting to feel alot better now. I never did do the toothbrush and qtip thing. I called my doc and they asked me if I was doing it and I said no way. I'm just sticking to putting the amerigel in the morning and neosporin at night, and soaking for 5 min. It seems to be healing up pretty good now. I go back to that doc for a check up tomorrow. I actually have to get 3 other nails removed too but the first time I did only the one big toenail because I was kinda nervous and wasnt really sure what to expect. I will do the other 3 but Im not looking forward to it as I've had to take the week off of work (since I work in heels) and the post op was very uncomfortabe. But I guess in the end if I can walk around wearing sandals it will all be worth it. It has been so hard for the past 10 years, especially being young, having to cover my feet all the time. I cant wear sandals or open toe shoes, go swimming etc, because it has always been to embarrasing. It really is cosmetically debilitating, I dont think people really understand how horrible it is always having to hide your feet. I can't wait till they are all done and I should have nice toenails this summer. It will be such freedom. I really should have got this done years ago, but I was always procrastinating, trying out different herbal remedies that never really worked. I think the herbal remedies might be okay if you have a slight infection, but I dont think they work for major infections in the toenail. I really regret I didnt do this sooner, but I guess better now then never. I might have to wait a few months till I do the other nails as I need to go back to work!
Nailless 17-Oct-2007 12:20
RE: Jenny
Not sure who your doctor is thinking.. I would go get another one and fast!

I had all my nails now removed. Here is what I was told to do to them.. Soaks of 15-20 minutes twice daily with warm tap water and Dreft Laundry soap, (one tablespoon per gallon of water, I used one pre dishpan ful of water).
A triple antibortic onment for the first week or so and a band-aid ... changed twice a day, after feet have aired 5 minutes after being soaked. Never dry the nail bed by rubbing only pat or let it air dry completely..
Tooth brushing the nail I think he must be a quack Dr. LOL!!
Maybe you should go to the E-R at a local hospital and let them check your toe out and make sure everything is ok and ask them for a referal to another foot doctor. Don't wait!
Jenny 15-Oct-2007 13:42
Hey y'all:) Well... this is my story. I'm a 30yr old female and I had my big toenail removed, without the phenol, 3 days ago. The actual procedure was fine but the 3 days since then have been pretty bad. The first night I needed painkillers and day 2 and 3 I've used some painkillers and ibuprofen. The area is so tender and when I soak my toe it burns pretty bad, and then when I put the ointment on it afer (amerigel) it burns really bad for about 30 min. I'm wondering if anyone else gets the burning too. Also I've had this weird sensation of pressure build up in my toe. The first few days the pressure build up feeling was in my entire foot as well as pins and needles, but now its just in my toe when I stand on that one foot. My podiatrist gave me post op instructions to twice daily soak my toe in epsom salt for five min, then take a soft toothbrush and lightly scrub it for ten min, then take a qtip and go underneath the cuticle area, then put the amerigel ointment on, then bandaid. I havent done the toothbrush or qtip thing as I think the doc must be out of his mind as that would be way too painful. Has anyone else been instructed to do this? I dont care what he says, Im not doing it, since it hurts too bad already with the soaking and the ointment. I'm hoping the burning sensation lessens soon. I word in heels so I'm guessing it will be another week till Im back to work. Can anyone answer my questions? I'd appreciate it.
Nailless 13-Oct-2007 16:38
RE:Vickie McKinney

Best of luck.. I would go on a search about the problem your having at google or something. What i found from reading was a shot under the nail or removal. I'm not in to the shots thing.
Now at 10 nails off on my feet premently now.. Still recoverying from the last 8 off.
Vickie McKinney 10-Oct-2007 16:14
I have psoraisis in my fingernails and toenails. The two big toenail are going to be
removed next week due to the nail being detached from the nail bed. And yes I'm
scared to death. I'm just curious about whether or not its going to be worth it, I'm afraid the psoraisis will grow back before the nail will and then the pain and removal will all be in vain. What do you think
Nailless 08-Oct-2007 12:47
Hi i'm starting out in my third week since my last 8 nails got remove on Sept 21 of this year. Still not in my shoes yet, but flip flops as they have opened toes. Still some draining at times but not bad. A gentle shower rinsing and a short soaking in the morning cleans the toes back up. No Band-Aids or Meds at this point in time.
Anyone remember how long it is before one can wear their shoes again and with out draining toes? Had my grand toes down ,but can't remember how long afterwords it took before I was able to dress my feet once again.
Michelle 04-Oct-2007 23:50
OK im home and Im still numb but it wasnt as bad as I thought. Now I am still numb but the surgery part was not that bad but the shots were not something I would want to do daily..ouch...

I will update you tommorrow about how I am feeling. Thanks for all the kid words...

Michelle
vanmini1968 04-Oct-2007 02:01
ok, I had my toenails removed on both big toes in march. And there was little pain. But, guess what...they are growing back! Yepp, I am in that small %. Yuck! Now I have to go have another surgery, but more intense...I am a little leary of this one. Anyone have any info on it? I have tried looking it up online but have no luck. Please email me with any info @vanmini1968@yahoo.com. Thanks!!
bryguy 02-Oct-2007 13:06
Hey Chris, how many did you have done?
Chris 01-Oct-2007 23:16
to Michelle--absolutely no pain! lie back, relax, and listen to the music. I think we imagine it will hurt because we know from experience the nail bed is a sensitive place and we know what is being done. But, relax assured, no pain at all.

to guest--no, no worries about going barefoot
Jade 01-Oct-2007 19:41
wow, it brings back memories from this past June.. in june 3 days after my missions trip I went to the doc and had a physical, we brought up the situation with my ingrown nail and she had an appointment made for right after the physical to get it taken care of. I thought that I would just be getting the sides cut out again but nope, I got the whole thing removed.. but not the root... it is growing back and honestly, I think it is growing crooked! if it is, I am going to be so mad.... it is already taking long enough to grow..... and to top that off, my other toe I had the sides cut out, well I think they are growing back in to... urgh! : ( the numbing needles are so so painful.. i hate it! I hope this whole thing is over soon....
Nailless 01-Oct-2007 15:54
RE: Michelle
I just had 8 remove but in a Hospital setting as I have other health problems that they wanted to watch. My 1 grand toe nail came came off in the office. THe numbing shot is the worst thing that happens during the entire ordeal, but nothing to worry about. Make sure you have lots of Band-Aids etc. on hand to use later on down the road. (Check with your doc to see what you may need).
There was a part of one nail that regrew on the one garand toe and my family doctor took that off completely last summer.
I'm dealing withthe second week of the last 8 toe healing this week. Anyone know how long the nail beds drain before they completely dry up and stop draining. I'm soaknig the feet daily for 20 minutes now and not twice a day. Using Dreft at 1 tablespoon per gallon of warm water. Only Band_aids at ngiht time when sleeping because of the sheets. No shoes yet, just flip flops during the day to allow the toe nail beds to air and not rub in a pair of shoes.
Can't wait till they are all healed. Then the waiting game starts to make sure that they killed the complete nail beds and no part of the nail regrows, as that was the palan when it happened, the removal.
Michelle 30-Sep-2007 14:21
I am having this done on Thursday and I am freaking out. I dont know what is bothering me so bad. I am very pain tolerant and am usually not scared of anything but for some reason I really dont want to do this. Pls tell me it isnt that bad. plssssssss. I am having it removed but where it will grow back i guess ti is the some thing as you had done. Thanks for all your info.

Michelle
Guest 29-Sep-2007 14:51
is anyone embarrassed to be barefoot? that is the one thing with this i think. Tbud3458@aol.com
George 29-Sep-2007 12:42
Hi,
Had one side on each toe removed and then "phenolized". Doc said one of the toes was the deepest he'd seen..Took Lamisil for 4 months, and nails are growing in very nicely. Hope to have pain free decent looking nails for once. Felt just a slight pinch of the needle, but had to have increased doses of numbing. But felt no pain....going very well so far. Thanks Dr. C-great job! email any comments if desired.
Chris 29-Sep-2007 02:07
Hi Everyone,
First, thanks to the creator of this webpage for sharing her experience--her knowledge was helpful in several ways. About a week ago I had both my big toenails permanently removed. I go hiking for an extended period every summer and though I keep my nails clipped short and have tried a variety of boot/sock combinations, every summer my big toenails get traumatized on the descents and separate from the beds. This caused both pain at the time it happened and inconvenience later when the old nail was detaching and the new nail was growing in. So, in part because of reading of othersf experiences, I decided on a surgical solution. I had both toes done at the same time and rather than phenol, the doctor used electricity to treat the matrices to hopefully prevent regrowth. There was absolutely no pain during the procedure. However, as the anesthetic began to wear off in the hours after the operation, there was some discomfort. The evening of the day of the operation was the worst and the NSAID I was prescribed was insufficient. I recommend requesting a strong, possibly opiate-based analgesic for the first couple days. Walking was possible though slowly and carefully for a few days, and within four or five days without problem, I have to date worn only thongs on both feet, though, so no idea how it might have felt in shoes. The one surprising thing is the healing time\my toes are still draining a bit. As I normally heal quickly without complication from skin injuries, had I not read here that continued drainage even a week after the operation is typical, Ifd have been a bit concerned. The doctor confirmed this is to be expected, so Ifm just keeping the wounds moist (yes, wet heals better than dry) with topical antibiotic gel and a thin bandage and letting nature do the rest.
Nailless 27-Sep-2007 16:45
I found this on the will looking around today. I'd rather my toes to be nailless like they are then to worry about another problem starting so my feet look better for just there looks.
Nailless and naked toes....

Fake nails, however, increase the danger of infection. Doctors and beauticians warn that acrylics, gel and even regular nail polish traps moisture in nails, encouraging fungal growth, particularly on toes, which are confined to dark, moist, warm shoes for hours each day. Fungal infections can color the nails brown and yellow; can cause an odor; and can cause the nails to grow up instead of out.

For this reason, some beauticians hesitate to apply acrylic nails to feet.

“We discourage people from wearing them,” said Gina Morgan, a nail technician and instructor at the International School of Skin and Nailcare in Atlanta. “The hard surface lifts the natural nail, separating it from the nail bed, and can do serious damage.”
bryguy 27-Sep-2007 14:39
Hey Auburnguy.. im looking for the same thing.. there are artificial toenails out there.. but i haven't tried them yet. i know what you mean though about being barefoot. email if you want man. tbud4258@aol.com
kim 27-Sep-2007 07:42
i had bilateral surgery on both big toes. the injections are extremelly painfull but after those its only pressure i felt.i had an infection in the left toe but its now gettin better.i had it done 3 weeks ago i still have to bathe them daily in salt and dress them.its very painful for about the first two weeks but now they just feel sore and a bit bruised.they wanted to remove all the nail but being a woman i would have felt very self confident.i had ingrowing nails inside and out the toes. i would recomend it to anyone who suffers with ingrowing nails, best of luck
Nailless 26-Sep-2007 21:57
auburnguy
Have you ever applied vaseline in thin coats daily to your nail bed? It helps take the dry looking skin way and they look better. Soaking daily in DREFT laundry soap will also soften feet and works better then eposalts does. The DREFT is to be use 1 tablespoon to each gallon of warm water. That is from a foot doctor him self.
Good luck1
auburnguy 25-Sep-2007 23:47
does anyone know if there are ways to get a toenail to cover up where mine was removed, i hate being bear foot in front of people
nailless.. 24-Sep-2007 21:57
As of Friday the 21st of Sept, my last 8 nails where taken off for good. The grad toes nails came off in two different times. Because of health issues, they had to come off and for good.
Part of one grand toe nail grow back but my family doc took care of that for me...
I enjoy being in sandles and my flip flops. Time will tell how the 8 newly removed toes will look and feel down the road. There are more important thing to worry about then the way my toes look. If ya don't like them don't look then.. LOL!
Feet and toes showing ...
bryguy 07-Sep-2007 13:42
hey.. anyone out there?
Guest 04-Sep-2007 03:05
would really like to talk to other people about it.. especially other guys who may feel the same about being barefoot after having this done. thanks.
Guest 04-Sep-2007 02:22
Hi. I had my toenails removed also... its been something though as i have not been comfortable now being barefoot in front of people.. has anyone else felt this. i know that woman have fake toenails they can wear but what can a guy do if anything? if anyone wants to email me they can do it at tbud4258@aol.com. thanks.
Guest 03-Sep-2007 19:25
recently in the UK permanent false toenails have becoming more and more popular due to these operations. i had this operation done around 4 years ago and I reacted to some of the ointments used in the operation. As a result both my toenails fell off and have regrown distorted. one is small and very thin whilst the other big toe is large and very thick. as a result i cant wait to research permanent false nails!!
lbliss01-Sep-2007 21:50
Kerry, sorry I can't help you with the cost of the procedure. Call your local podiatrist and just ask. Don't forget to include all costs like medications and follow-up appts.

Powell, I'm not at all self-conscious about my feet. I wear sandals all the time. I much happier running free of the toenail problems than in painting my nails a pretty color. To each her own. That's just me.

James, you said your doc "removed my big toe." I'm sure you mean he removed the toe nail!! In that case, yep, it'll grow back in time.

Thanks, everyone, for tall the comments.
James 31-Aug-2007 05:50
Hi, so a few weeks ago I broke my big toe by kicking something really hard. It was getting way better, but then last night I dropped a 45lb weight on the same toe and destroyed it pretty well. Today the doc removed my big toe because blood had gotten all underneath it and he was afraid of infection. I didn't even think to ask him, but is there any chance of my toenail growing back? For some reason I just kind of assumed that it would grow back, but I really should have asked him to make sure. I'll see him again soon, but do any of you know? I'm kind of freaking out about this. And good God, these pictures made me want to vomit. Bad, bad memories.
Guest 30-Aug-2007 15:18
What a great multiple series of images of the procedure! Really good photography. Thank you.

I was sorry to see you were a woman, as the women I've known seem rather self conscious of their feet, and I imagine toenail problems (of which I suffer) is hard as they typically have fun painting them and showing them off. Thank you for sharing a part of your life that might be hard to share.

Hope everything workds out well and your running goes back to being pain free.

Powell
cindy 25-Aug-2007 02:43
I had this procedure done a few years ago and this sounds strange but I superglue fake toenails onto my big toes. You cannot even tell they are fake and they stay on for weeks with no problems.
Kerry 22-Aug-2007 04:15
I've really been looking into this procedure on both of my big toes. I get horrible ingrown toe nails and do "at home surgery" to correct it most of the time. I don't have insurance that would cover the operation. I was wondering about how much it costs to have just the big toe nails removed on both feet.
Guest 15-Aug-2007 22:45
I had part of my toe nail and nail bed removed today after a year of thinking my ingrowing toenail would sort itself out on it's own!!
the most painful thing was the injections but after that it was all very quick and i didn't feel a thing just hope it all heels ok!!
if you're worried about getting this done - don't be..it's nothing compared to the doscomfort of a ingrowing toenail
Bill 15-Aug-2007 18:23
Yesterday day I had similar surgery but the center portion of my toenail was left in place. I had the surgery because of the toenail being ingrown on both sides. I only had two injections of local anesthesia, and after that I didn't feel a thing. In fact, I'm only starting to get feeling back in my toe now (12 hours later). I agree with the author that the injection is the most painful part of this procedure. However, my DR used some sort of spray that is extremely cold on my toe before inserting the needle, which helps numb the stick of the needle. I could still feel the needle though. In any case, having this surgery is FOR SURE better than putting up with a painful ingrown tonail for weeks or months. I recommend it. My doctor did it in his office in about 30 minutes total!
Bill 15-Aug-2007 18:23
Yesterday day I had similar surgery but the center portion of my toenail was left in place. I had the surgery because of the toenail being ingrown on both sides. I only had two injections of local anesthesia, and after that I didn't feel a thing. In fact, I'm only starting to get feeling back in my toe now (12 hours later). I agree with the author that the injection is the most painful part of this procedure. However, my DR used some sort of spray that is extremely cold on my toe before inserting the needle, which helps numb the stick of the needle. I could still feel the needle though. In any case, having this surgery is FOR SURE better than putting up with a painful ingrown tonail for weeks or months. I recommend it. My doctor did it in his office in about 30 minutes total!
Guest 04-Aug-2007 00:19
how much does it cost to have all ten toe nails removed
Guest 02-Aug-2007 22:52
ANGI-
I have been looking for over five years for "fake" permanent toenails. I had both of my big toenails removed as well. As far as I know there is NOTHING. I have even asked my foot doctor, who just laughed and said "why would you want fake toenails" men just don't understand!

Kelly
Vicki 31-Jul-2007 16:52
I had my both of my big toenails removed because I am diabetic. The right toe looks bad. The left toe is not as bad looking as the right toe. Even though it has been over 3 years ago I still continue to soak them to keep them from looking so cursty. I know there is something out there I can do to make them look a little more presentable, but what. I want to be able to wear open toe shoes but cannot because I am embarrassed by my toes. Do anyone have any suggestions? Please email me if you have any ideas.
KIM 28-Jul-2007 20:12
IM MY NAILS REMOVED IN SEPTEMBER AND AM VERY SELF CONCIOUS OF HOW THEY WILLLOOK WHEN THEY ARE HEALED.AND WAS ALSO WONDERING IF ANYONE KNEW IF YOU COULD BUY FALSE TOE NAILS.IM ALSO REALLY DREADING THE INJECTIONS COS I HAVE HEARD THAT THEY ARE REALLYPAINFULL.
Angi 27-Jul-2007 14:42
I have both big toenails removed and both second toenails removed. Does anyone know if there is a procedure to put permanent fake nails on? I have seen the fake toenails in the store but they do not stick to sking very.
Lou 24-Jul-2007 14:10
I had both my big toenails removed four weeks ago due to fungus. They are still so sore and oozing!!! How long may I expect this to continue?
Kelly 21-Jul-2007 16:38
Sharon,
What exactly does the "wedge" procedure do to your toenail? Do they just remove the sides of the nail? My husband has had the side of his toenails removed, and I am wondering if this is the similar procedure to what he had.

Thanks Kelly
Sharon 18-Jul-2007 19:14
its been 3 and half weeks since i had the side of my toenail "wedged". i am very frihtened at dthe moment as there is still a scab on one area. i think the op may hav been a complete failure nd that my surgeonleft a piece of nail untreated. do u know if some areas of the toe are supposed to heal slower than others??i wud greatly appreciate help as i am not sure as to whether i could go through all that pain again
Kelly 17-Jul-2007 02:07
I had both of my big toe nails removed five years ago. My nails were very brittle and cracked on the top, thus my skin would pinch through the actual toenail. I do not remember it really hurting that much. There was a lot of drainage for a week or two, but for me the worse part of the procedure was having all the nerve blocking shots in my two toes. I was given liquid antibiotics and put band aids on them for a few weeks and that was that. Does anyone know if there are prosetic toe nails? I am looking for something permanent. I hate painting the skin, as with other posts it only lasts a few days, and it looks dry and cracked on the top. I would like something that would look natural that I could polish. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Shussi 02-Jul-2007 19:59
I had all 10 toenails removed 9 years ago and yes the healing pain was horrible for
at least a month RedBud8.
Cliff 01-Jul-2007 15:13
Lisa, thanks for posting the pictures of your surgery. They are excellent! I just had ALL of my toenails permanently removed due to repeated trauma, fungus, and some other complications. You can view some before-and-after pics of my toes at www.geocities.com/ckhsjs/Cliff_Ho_Toes.htm.
RedBud8 23-Jun-2007 00:21
My big toenail some how became detatched from the nail bed and I had to have it removed last week. It has been 10 days and it is still killing me. Anyone else experience pain for this long post-op? I am getting horrible sharp, shooting pains which I figure is nerves healing. The worse part is the incredible pressure. I have never experienced pressure like this. It feels as if it will just explode! Any ideas on this?
Mars 17-Jun-2007 22:04
After several ingrown nail removals I opted to have the entire nails removed. It would have been better if I opted for the entire nail removal the first time as scar tissue caused me more damage then normal and pain as well.
Mine were burned with silver nitrate sticks.
lbliss01-Jun-2007 05:14
Even as the nail bed healed, I had areas of tenderness. Some spots seemed to heal slower than the others. I also had a lot of drainage for a long time. I don't remember exactly, maybe 4 weeks, though it certainly lessened over time. After my right toenail removal, I had one area that just didn't seem to heal at all. It was boggy and never dried out. I returned to the podiatrist for a recheck on it, suspecting a slight infection under the skin, and sure enough, that's what it was. He did a quick "sharps debriding" (removed the thin layer of skin) so that it could drain and heal, and it healed up very quickly after that. WHEN IN DOUBT, RETURN TO SEE YOUR PODIATRIST. A simple infection is very easy to take care of. A simple infection that doesn't get treated can have serious consequences.
Leza 23-May-2007 17:34
I had the big toenail removed on May 17, just last week ..have been doing epsom salt soaks twice daily and then applying Gentamicin antibiotic cream and a bandaid. The drainage has been bad the past two days, the toe seems inflamed ... has anyone else had this happen? If so, what did you do? Call the doctor? Any help is appreciated. Thank you.
Annette 16-May-2007 03:26
I had my big toenail removed permanently 5 days ago. I was given a special ointment, and told to keep it covered with the cotton gauze they gave me and a band-age wraped around it. I remove the band-age in the morning, shower (keetping it out of the way of the full water), then pat dry and re-wrap. I saw the Dr. two days ago as a follow-up and he said it looked good. However, it feels really,reallysore on one side when I touch the band-age...almost as bad as when it was in-grown. I am starting to obsess that maybe he somehow left a piece of nail at the edge or something. Can anyone tell me if pain is normal 5 days post-surgery? I had been keeping a loose sock over the foot (we live in hot Florida, so mostly in sandals and wanted to protec it from dirt), but I found tonight that without the sock on, it really feels better with nothing even lightly touching the bandage. Does any pain mean it is getting infected? Thanks for any words of advise/
lbliss12-May-2007 19:56
Linda, I'm not sure what you mean by "toenail replacement treatments." I don't know of anything like this.

Sam, yes, you can paint the skin though it won't be as smooth as a toenail. How good it looks and how long it stays on will depend on how smooth the skin underneath. Unless you are real picky about how your nails look, you would probably be satified with painting the skin. I have painted mine and it looks bumpy and lasts only a couple of days before it starts to chip/peel off. To me, it's fine....but I have never been big into painting my toenails.
SAM 12-May-2007 13:49
I'm having my toenail permanently removed. Can you use nail polish over the skinned area?? WIll it look good??
Linda (Scotland) 08-May-2007 15:57
I had this procedure done on both big toes about 15 years ago and I still remember the pain! I would be interested to hear about any toenail replacement treatments available as mine look really ugly as stubby bits grew back and I cant wear open toe shoes or sandals because I get really embarrased by them.
lbliss30-Apr-2007 03:12
Hi chefbonnie - What an unfortunate experience you had. I too hope you are good an done with the problems from this. No surgery is without risks and one of those risks is always infection. Bummer it happened to you. Thanks for posting your experience here. It's a good warning to all of us.
chefbonnie 26-Apr-2007 18:44
You were so fortunate to have such a smooth procedure. I had my big toe nail removed in ambulatory care February 6, 2007 and ended up with infection even after babying the darn thing. I was put on oral antibiotics for a month and this did nothing. After an x - ray I was told I now had osteomyelitis and had to have a picc line inserted and have 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics 3 times a day. I had this line removed from my arm last week and now have another month of antibiotics orally. Been off work for almost 3 months now, New x - ray shows no sign of the osteomyelitis so I am crossing my fingers that this is finally over. Would I do it again??? NO WAY LOL
DJ 18-Apr-2007 22:17
Thanks for the photo. How long do they take to look like that? Is it long until the feet arent soar
Alex 18-Apr-2007 22:15
It went quite well the pain was not that soar afterwards. They're still in the healing process. The right one looks quite good but the left had an infection in it so its taking longer to heal. It's still very sensitive, both of them. Thanks for the photo, mine dont look like that yet. There was no pain like the injections. They were by far the worst
lbliss16-Apr-2007 04:14
The toenails look fine now. Just kinda skinned over. It's not smooth but that doesn't bother me at all. Nobody notices except if I get a pedicure. Here's a picture: http://www.pbase.com/lbliss/image/58436912.

How'd it go, Alex? I didn't get back to you in time. Sorry. The pain of burning the corners is nothing. That burns the nail so that it doesn't grow back. The pain of burning the skin - the nail BED - is more. That prevents the entire nail from growing back. I told Dr. M to "burn the hell outa the bed" since I wanted to be sure that sucker wasn't going to grow back, which does happen sometimes. So, he did that and for me, the pain was about a 6/10 the first night. I had to take pain meds, but raising the foot and ice actually helped the most. Of course, it didn't help that I was on my feet at a party for a couple of hours right after the procedure. Pain started when local anesthetic wore off. The next day it was not so bad. I went to work and was on my feet for 10 hours/day the next week. I also couldn't wear sandals at work. Those things - sandals, open to air, and getting off my feet for a while during the day - would have greatly sped up my recovery. Still, it was more like a nuisance than anything the first few weeks, mostly due to drainage. I was able to run within a couple of days....just not downhill.

Just having the toenail removed - but not permanently (i.e. with the burning of the nail bed) is not painful and requires no recovery time except for a sensitive toe (esp in the shower!). The only painful part of this is the shots to numb the toe. But once that's done, the rest is cake.....tho it is good to keep the top of the toe covered with like a bandaid in the shower because it's sensitive even to the water pounding down.
Alex 02-Apr-2007 19:35
On a scale of 1 to 10 how soar was the pain afterwards? I'm having the whole nail removed in 2 weks.
Nathan 02-Apr-2007 19:32
Was the procedure painful? i had the corners of mine off and there was no pain whatsoever, barely. How much more painful is it?
DJ 02-Apr-2007 19:28
Hi, I'm having the same surgery done tomorrow and I was feeling quite bad about it and how it might look after. But after looking throught the gallery its made me feel much better about it. How does it look now? thank you!
lbliss25-Feb-2007 20:14
Thanks for pointing out the difference between the 2 procedures, Mandy (partial vs whole removal). The partial procedures for ingrown toenails are much less painful and easy to recover from.
-Lisa
Mandy 25-Feb-2007 07:36
I just had a very similar surgery done yesterday but mine was because I get chronic ingrown toenails on both my great toes on both sides, so they just cut down both sides of each toenail, and put that acid down in there w/ the q-tips and everything.

The only thing that hurt me was the lidocaine injections, but after that I didn't feel a thing! I sure hope my toenails heal correctly and the parts they burn never come back!

To that Ian guy: Its definately not as bad as it looks. ;D I was up and walking around that day, just a little tender. They just gave my Tylenol to take for the pain and it feels perfectly fine!
lbliss08-Feb-2007 04:33
Kate, Your phobia sounds so troubling. I'm not sure removing the toenails would be the best solution. You may want to consider seeing a psychologist who can help treat the phobia directly before ungoing such a drastic procedure. Good luck.
lbliss07-Feb-2007 04:49
Ian,
The procedure took about 30 minutes start to finish, but some of that time was because the lidocaine local anesthetic does not numb me up. It's always been that way. So, we'd wait and then he'd start and I'd have to stop him to try a different local anesthetic, which he did (marcaine) - with a tourniquet! - and then it worked fine. You should feel nothing but maybe a little pressure. And if you don't like blood or think you might pass out, then just dont watch. Bring someone with you to keep your mind busy. My toe stayed numb for about 2 hours during a Christmas party, then the marcaine slowly started wearing off. Then it was actually quite painful. The nail bed is burned with phenol and I think that's why it's painful. (I had also asked the doc to use a lot of phenol to burn the nail bed to ensure that the nail wouldn't grow back). I did take some pain meds the first night and being on my feet all day at work the next day was uncomfortable. If I were to do it again, I would take a pain pill before the anesthetic wore off and I would GENTLY wrap some ice around the bandaged toe. I think that would have helped more than anything. The subsequent soaks and leaving the wound open to air as much as possible when directed by your podiatrst are keys to quicker recovery. Good luck!
Ian 05-Feb-2007 17:58
You have alot of guts documenting your procedure, I don't think I could have done that. I'm dreading having this done, hopefuly it looks worse then it actually is. I have a badly curved nail on my large toe which is causing me pain. Two questions for you, first how long was the procedure (from the first injection to having your toe bandaged) and two did you need post-op pain meds for any pain?
Kate, Somerset (England) 13-Jan-2007 22:42
I have an embarrasing phobia of toenails. It sounds really stupid, but I feel physically sick to look at my own feet, and generally avoid this. Every month I dread the thought of having to clip them; luckily I have a very caring boyfriend who now does this for me. I have had counselling as I have several phsycholgical issues that I am working through, but this is something that I can't seem to get over. Although it sounds incredbly painful, I really believe this would be something that could improve my life no end.
Does anyone know if it is possible to pay for this surgery for a reason other than infection? I have asked several GPs but they seem to feel it would be a waste of time, and that I should try to "get over it."
Sandy 13-Jan-2007 08:54
Well i actually have a toenail that has fungus and also maybe a ingrown nail...Im suppose to be getting my toenail removed on Tues Jan. 16 and im kind of nervous how long does the process take? Does the process hurt?
lbliss19-Nov-2006 00:25
Dan, if it won't fall off on its own, then you can get it removed. You do not need to have it permanently removed (which entails the painful burning of the nailbed), so you do not have to go through this entire process. See a podiatrist. They remove toenails all time, very often for infections and for exactly what you describe. You may need to have only part of it removed too. It will probably grow back fine in any case. Good luck!
dan 14-Nov-2006 03:34
I understand what you mean now. Im just curious what i should have done, I stubbed my big toe very bad several years ago. the nail became infected and then it grew and deattched from the nail bed. About half of the nail is attached to the skin and the other part just isnt attached causing it to look discolored. Im wondering if i have it removed, if it will regrow attached to the nail bed and look fine? I got the doctors opinion but it hasnt been real helpful, would you know? Thanks a lot , I appreciate it., p.s. sorry to be gross
lbliss11-Nov-2006 21:58
Dan, I did not have infections. My big toenails had endured quite a bit of trauma over the years from ultrarunning. I'd often lose them, which was not a problem in itself, but they started growing back downward into the nailbed and there was no way I could prevent it. This necessitated having them removed a couple of times. The process was so unpleasant that I decided to have it done permanently so that I'd never have to go through with it again. To date, I am very pleased I had it done (despite the longer than expected recovery).
-Lisa
Dan 07-Nov-2006 22:49
I have a question regarding the removal. You said you had the nail removed twice in the past. Is that because the nail kept rewgrowing as a infected nail?
Thanks a lot
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