Will It Hurt? Common Fears About Nail Surgery—Answered Honestly

Will It Hurt? Common Fears About Nail Surgery—Answered Honestly

June 30, 20252 min read

Let’s cut straight to it: the idea of someone slicing into your toe isn’t exactly comforting.

We get it.

At Prime Foot Clinic, we’ve heard it all:

“Will it hurt?”
“Will I be able to walk?”
“Do you use pliers or what?”

So here’s the real deal—no fluff, no sugar-coating. Just honest answers to the questions that keep you up at night while your toenail throbs like a drum solo.

First Off: Why Do People Even Need Nail Surgery?

Usually, it’s because of one nasty little issue—ingrown toenails. The kind that swell, bleed, get infected, and make you swear under your breath every time you put on socks.

Sometimes nails grow thick, weird, or infected enough to need more than just a trim. That’s when surgery steps in.

But “surgery” sounds scarier than it actually is.

Let’s Talk Pain (The Bit You’re Really Worried About)

Does it hurt?
Here’s the truth: you won’t feel a thing during the procedure. We use a local anaesthetic—think of it like a numbing jab. A quick sting, then you’re completely pain-free. You’ll feel pressure, maybe, but no pain.

And if your practitioner’s any good (hint: ours are), you’ll be talking about football or your last holiday while your nail’s being sorted.

What about after?
We’ll be honest—once the numbness wears off, it can feel sore. Think of it like a bruised toe. But we’ll give you painkillers, and most people say it’s nowhere near as bad as the pain they had before the surgery.

In fact, most clients tell us:
“If I’d known it was this easy, I’d have done it ages ago.”

Will I Be Able to Walk?

Yes. You might not be skipping down the street immediately, but most people walk out of the clinic—literally.

You’ll leave with a padded toe and clear instructions. No mystery. No drama.

You might need to rest a bit more than usual for a day or two. But you won’t be bed-bound.

What If I’m Nervous?

That’s normal. We’re not robots here—we know this stuff makes people anxious.

At Prime Foot Clinic, we take time to talk you through everything. No rushed appointments. No surprises. And if you’re worried? We’ll work at your pace.

Last But Not Least… Will It Grow Back?

Depends.

We offer two options:

  1. Temporary Fix – nail may grow back

  2. Permanent Fix – we treat the root so that part of the nail doesn’t return

We’ll help you choose what’s right for you.


Bottom Line

If you’re putting off nail surgery because you’re scared it’ll hurt—stop.

It’s quick, clean, and honestly, a relief. That throbbing, swollen, sore toe? It’s not going to fix itself.

Book in with Prime Foot Clinic in Ramsbottom, Prestwich or Denton, and let’s sort it properly. No pain. No hassle. Just results.

👉 Call now or book online. Your feet (and your sanity) will thank you.

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