A podiatrist, a doctor, or a medical professional can remove a toenail.
Methods of Toenail Removal
Toenail removal is typically performed by a medical professional, such as a podiatrist or doctor. The procedure, often necessary for ingrown toenails, fungal infections, or trauma, involves several steps.
Professional Toenail Removal
- Doctor's Office: Surgical nail removal is commonly performed in a doctor's office. [Reference: Surgical nail removal can be done in your doctor's office.] This provides a sterile and controlled environment.
- Pain Management: Before beginning the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area, making the process painless. [Reference: Your doctor will give you an injection in the finger or toe to prevent pain.]
- Procedure: The doctor uses specialized instruments to carefully separate the nail from the surrounding skin. If only a portion of the nail is affected, only that part is removed. [Reference: Then your doctor will use a tool to loosen the skin around the nail and separate the nail from the skin. If only part of the nail is diseased, only the diseased part is removed.]
At-Home Toenail Removal (Not Recommended)
Attempting toenail removal at home is strongly discouraged. Improper techniques can lead to infection, excessive bleeding, and permanent damage. Always consult a medical professional for toenail removal.
