An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a nail presses into or grows into the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause pain, swelling and redness, especially when walking or wearing shoes. If the problem keeps returning, becomes increasingly painful or produces discharge, a medical assessment is advisable.
At Republikas laukuma klīnika in central Riga, surgeon Dr Jānis Opincāns assesses ingrown toenails and recommends treatment based on the condition of the nail and surrounding tissue. Mild cases may be managed without surgery. In more advanced or recurrent cases, a minor procedure under local anaesthesia may be appropriate. Removing the entire nail is not always necessary.
Dr. Jānis Opincāns
Surgeon’s consultation: €60. Surgical treatment of an ingrown toenail: from €100. The final treatment plan and price are confirmed after assessment.
What causes an ingrown toenail?
Several factors can contribute to an ingrown toenail:
- cutting the nail too short or rounding its corners;
- tight shoes that press on the toes;
- repeated pressure during work or sport;
- an injury to the toe or nail;
- a strongly curved nail shape.
More than one factor may be involved. An ingrown toenail can also recur after the initial symptoms improve.
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail
Common symptoms include pain or tenderness along the side of the nail, redness, swelling and discomfort when walking or wearing shoes. As inflammation develops, fluid or pus may appear, and the skin beside the nail may thicken or overgrow.
If pain, swelling or redness is increasing, arrange a medical assessment rather than repeatedly cutting into the painful nail edge yourself.
What should you do if a toenail is ingrown?
The appropriate treatment depends on how deeply the nail has grown into the skin, how inflamed the toe is and whether the problem has happened before. In a mild case, a clinician may recommend reducing pressure on the toe, wearing wider shoes and caring for the nail and surrounding skin. Avoid digging into the corner of the nail or trying to remove part of it with non-sterile instruments.
Antibiotics are not needed for every ingrown toenail. A doctor will decide whether there are signs of a bacterial infection and whether medication is indicated.
When might surgical treatment be needed?
A minor procedure may be recommended if the nail is deeply embedded, pain persists, inflamed tissue has developed, conservative care has not helped or the condition keeps returning. The surgeon chooses the method after examining the toe.
Under local anaesthesia, the surgeon may remove the troublesome edge of the nail and treat the affected tissue. In selected cases, the nail growth area may also be treated to reduce the risk of recurrence. The whole nail does not have to be removed in every case.
Does the procedure hurt?
The local anaesthetic injection can cause brief discomfort. Once the toe is numb, you may feel touch or pressure, but you should not feel sharp pain during the procedure. As the anaesthetic wears off, some tenderness is possible. The surgeon will explain suitable pain relief and aftercare for your situation.
Recovery and care after treatment
After a procedure, a dressing is applied. Follow the surgeon’s instructions on keeping it clean, changing it and returning to normal activities. Shoes that do not press on the treated toe are usually more comfortable during recovery.
Contact the clinic or seek medical advice if pain, swelling or redness gets worse, pus appears or you develop a fever.
When should you see a doctor promptly?
Do not delay an assessment if redness is spreading, there is pus, pain is worsening, you have a fever or you cannot walk comfortably. Seek advice promptly if you have diabetes, reduced sensation in your feet or poor circulation, as a foot wound or infection may need closer attention. Do not cut into the affected skin yourself.
How can you reduce the chance of recurrence?
Cut toenails straight across without trimming them excessively short. Avoid digging out the corners and choose shoes with enough room for your toes. If the same nail repeatedly becomes painful or inflamed, a surgeon can assess whether further treatment is needed.
Ingrown toenail treatment cost in Riga
The surgeon’s consultation costs €60, and surgical treatment of an ingrown toenail starts from €100. The exact procedure and price depend on the findings at the appointment. When booking, ask the receptionist how the consultation and procedure charges apply to your visit.
For more information about the clinician and other minor procedures, see our surgeon service page.
Frequently asked questions
Can an ingrown toenail heal without surgery?
Mild cases can sometimes be managed without a procedure. If the nail is deeply embedded, the inflammation returns or symptoms persist, a surgeon may recommend a minor procedure.
Will the whole toenail be removed?
Not necessarily. In many cases, only the troublesome side of the nail needs to be treated. The surgeon will explain the proposed approach after examining the toe.
Can I have the procedure at my first appointment?
That depends on the assessment and appointment availability. When booking, tell the receptionist that you may need treatment for an ingrown toenail so the visit can be planned appropriately.
Do I need a referral?
A referral from a family doctor is not required for a private surgeon’s consultation. If you plan to use health insurance, check your policy’s requirements.
Book an ingrown toenail consultation in central Riga
Republikas laukuma klīnika is at Republikas laukums 3–18, Riga, on the ground floor of the Centra nams building. The entrance is on the side facing the Ministry of Agriculture.
