What do most podiatrists do to fix an ingrown toenail?

Remove the nail edge: The procedure is painless.

Remove ingrown nail: Some ingrown nails can be removed with simple trimming of the ingrown portion. Most require surgical removal. A matrixectomy is also done sometimes as well for chronic ingrown nails, which kills where the nail grows and prevents future ingrown nails. The nail surgery is usually done in the office after anesthetizing the toe. After care involves soaking and antibiotic cream with a bandaid.

Podiatrist: A podiatrist usually removes the offending nail border.

Removal of border: The doctor may need to get into the corner to get the ingrown nail out. Your pain may be minimized by use of a cold spray or use of a local anesthetic. There are some permanent procedures available to minimize the chance of recurrence. Discuss you options with your podiatrist.