Ingrown Toenail
Treatment of ingrown toenails by experienced dermatologists at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Ingrown Toenail
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Severe pain, inflammation at the edge of the nail or discomfort while walking: treatment and gentle removal of ingrown toenails – right in our minor surgery room in Zurich – Sihlcity, without hospital stay.
Examinations
Dermatological examination
Procedure
Dermatological examination
outpatient treatment with local anesthesia
wound care with dressing
Duration
15 minutes
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when the side of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This often causes pain, pressure, swelling or an infection, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes.
The big toe is affected most often. If not treated, the condition can worsen and lead to an infection of the nail bed.
A medical check-up is recommended if you …
- regularly feel pain in your toe when walking, running or wearing shoes
- notice the side of the toenail growing into the skin
- see redness, swelling or pus at the nail edge
- have had a nail bed infection before or experience repeated issues
What Happens During the Diagnosis and Treatment?
The dermatologist carefully examines the affected toe, including the nail edge, any signs of infection and changes to the nail bed.
The goal is to assess how severe it is and decide whether a non-surgical treatment is enough, or if the ingrown nail needs to be removed.
How Is an Ingrown Toenail Removed?
In many cases, a small outpatient procedure is needed:
- With the wedge excision method, the ingrown part of the nail is removed under local anesthesia.
- If the problem keeps coming back, Emmert procedure may help: a small part of the nail root is treated to stop the nail from growing in again.
The procedure is done in our certified minor surgery room. The wound is treated, and you may receive pain-relief ointment or medicine if desired. Most patients feel clear relief the next day.
How Is an Ingrown Nail Removed?
Initial consultation & examination:
We start by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and possible causes (e.g. incorrect nail trimming, tight shoes). Then the dermatologist examines the affected area and decides whether a procedure is needed.
Treatment plan:
Depending on the findings, we will either apply antiseptic ointments or perform a procedure onsite.
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis in our own surgery room. The wound is treated with special ointment and covered.
Follow-up care (if needed)
Pain medication is usually not necessary. Many patients already feel better the next day. In most cases, healing is quick. If requested, we offer a follow-up appointment, especially if you have recurring problems.
At Derma Medical Clinic, ingrown toenail treatments are performed exclusively by experienced dermatologists:
- Benjamin Miller, specialist in dermatology and phlebology
- Markus Dendorfer, specialist in dermatology and expert in pediatric dermatology
Both have many years of experience in diagnosing and treating nail conditions – from painful ingrown nails to chronic infections.
Link to Benjamin’s page
Link to Markus’s page
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What You Can Expect from Us
Quick relief for acute discomfort
Many patients feel much better shortly after the procedure. The ingrown part of the nail is gone – pressure and inflammation can subside.
Outpatient procedures in our own surgery room
If the ingrown nail needs to be removed, we carry out the procedure directly in our clinic – with local anesthesia and no hospital stay.
Gentle, precise technique with local anesthesia
The affected nail section is removed – gently, with little pain and usually no stitches. Thanks to local anesthesia, the treatment is well tolerated for most people.
Everything under one roof
You receive diagnosis, medical treatment and skin therapy in one place. This gives you reliable contact persons, short waiting times and consistent care, from first appointment to aftercare.
Are you experiencing pain near your nail or think your toenail is ingrown?
Book an appointment now for a dermatological examination at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Ingrown Toenail Treatment
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown nail forms when the edge of the nail grows into the skin – usually on the big toe. This can lead to pain, redness, swelling and sometimes pus.
How do I know if my nail is ingrown?
Early signs include tenderness, redness and swelling around the nail. Later, infection, pus or thickened skin (so-called ‘proud flesh’) may follow.
What causes an ingrown toenail?
Common causes include cutting nails too round, tight shoes, minor injuries or inherited tendencies. Toe deformities can also play a role.
What helps with an ingrown nail?
For mild symptoms, foot baths, antiseptic creams and proper nail care can help. If there is pain or infection, treatment by a dermatologist or podiatrist is advised.
When should I see a doctor for an ingrown nail?
See a doctor if the pain increases, pus forms or walking becomes painful. If you have other conditions like diabetes or poor circulation, you should seek care early.
How is an ingrown nail treated?
Depending on severity, conservative treatments such as packing or ointments may help. In worse cases, the ingrown part of the nail is removed (e.g. wedge excision) under local anesthesia.
Is surgery for an ingrown nail painful?
The procedure is done with local anesthesia and is usually well tolerated. Some patients may feel slight discomfort for a few days afterwards.
How long does it take to heal after nail treatment?
After a minor correction, the toe is often fine again within a few days. After full nail removal, healing usually takes two to three weeks.
How can I prevent ingrown toenails?
Cut your nails straight – not too short and not too round. Avoid tight shoes and keep your feet well cared for. If the problem keeps coming back, medical foot care may help.
Is an ingrown nail dangerous?
If left untreated, the infection can spread and damage the surrounding tissue. Early treatment is especially important if you have diabetes.
