Frequently Asked Questions

How long does healing usually take?

Healing varies depending on:

  • Whether the procedure was temporary or permanent.
  • Your general health.
  • The presence of infection before surgery.
  • How closely postoperative instructions are followed.

Most patients notice steady improvement over the first few weeks, although complete healing following a permanent matrix procedure can take longer.

Is drainage normal?

Yes.

A small amount of clear, straw-coloured or lightly blood-stained drainage is expected after many permanent nail procedures.

This is part of the normal healing process.

Drainage that becomes thick, foul-smelling or is associated with increasing pain or spreading redness should be reviewed.

Can I wear socks?

Yes.

Clean, loose-fitting socks are generally recommended once advised by your clinician.

Avoid socks that place excessive pressure across the dressing during the early stages of healing.

What shoes should I wear?

Initially, comfortable shoes with:

  • A wide toe box.
  • Soft uppers.
  • Minimal pressure over the toe.

are usually the most comfortable.

Avoid narrow dress shoes or tight sports shoes until healing has progressed.

Can I travel?

Many patients can travel shortly after surgery.

However, long periods of walking, prolonged standing or lengthy flights may increase swelling.

If significant travel is planned, discuss this before your procedure so appropriate advice can be provided.

Can I go on holiday?

Yes.

Timing simply needs to be considered.

If your holiday involves:

  • Swimming.
  • Hiking.
  • Beach activities.
  • Long sightseeing days.

it may be preferable to schedule surgery after your trip or allow adequate healing time beforehand.

Will airport security be a problem?

No.

A partial nail avulsion does not involve metal implants or anything that would trigger airport security systems.

Will my toenail look normal in six months?

For most patients, yes.

Following a permanent partial nail procedure, the nail is simply slightly narrower than before.

Once fully healed, many people find the cosmetic appearance is excellent.

Should I keep covering the toe?

Your clinician will advise when dressings are no longer necessary.

Continuing dressings for longer than required is usually unnecessary, while stopping them too early may expose the wound to unnecessary irritation.

Follow the personalised advice you have been given.

When should I contact my clinician?

Arrange review if you experience:

  • Increasing pain.
  • Spreading redness.
  • Fever.
  • Heavy bleeding.
  • Persistent concerns about healing.
  • Any unexpected change that worries you.

It is always better to ask than to guess.

Evidence Update

Providing patients with detailed postoperative instructions and clear expectations has been shown to improve satisfaction, reduce unnecessary anxiety and encourage earlier recognition of genuine complications.

Patient Tip

Keep your postoperative instruction sheet somewhere easy to find. Many questions that arise a few days later are answered in the information you receive on the day of surgery.