Ingrown Toenails

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Sore, red, or infected toenail? Get fast relief for ingrown toenails in San Mateo. Same-week care, gentle procedures (partial nail removal, matrixectomy), and clear aftercare to prevent recurrence.

An ingrown toenail happens when the nail edge grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling—often along the big toe. If bacteria enter, it can become infected and very tender.

Common symptoms

• Pain along one or both nail edges
• Redness, swelling, or drainage
• Overgrown, tender skin (“proud flesh”) at the corner
• Trouble wearing shoes or walking comfortably

Why it happens

• Nails cut too short or curved at the corners
• Tight shoes or repetitive pressure (sports, long shifts)
• Past trauma to the nail
• Natural nail curvature or pincer nails
• Higher risk with diabetes or poor circulation

Most ingrown toenails are diagnosed with a focused exam. We assess the depth, presence of infection, nail shape, shoe fit, and contributing factors (gait, activities). X-rays are rarely needed unless there’s concern for deeper infection or bone involvement.

We start with the least invasive option that still gets you comfortable:

Conservative care (mild cases)

• Warm soaks and topical care
• Protective padding or a temporary nail-edge lift
• Shoe and trimming guidance to reduce pressure

Office procedures (for moderate–severe, infected, or recurrent cases)

• Partial nail avulsion: removes the painful nail edge under local anesthesia; relief is typically immediate
• Partial matrixectomy (phenol/chemical or surgical): permanently narrows the nail to prevent the edge from growing back into the skin—ideal for recurrent ingrowns
• Drainage & antibiotics when infection is present (only if indicated)

We’ll review which option fits your toe, goals, and medical history. Procedures are quick, done in-clinic, and you can usually return to normal activities within 24–72 hours with simple wound care.

1. Evaluation: Exam and discussion of options; local anesthesia if a procedure is needed.
2. Treatment: Conservative care or a brief, in-office procedure.
3. Aftercare: Written instructions (soaks, dressing changes); follow-up to ensure smooth healing.

• Spreading redness, significant drainage, or fever
• Severe pain or inability to wear a shoe
• Diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation with any signs of infection
• Recurrent ingrowns that keep returning despite careful trimming

• Board-certified podiatric care led by Hannah Lee, DPM
• Gentle, numbing-first procedures with clear aftercare
• Matrixectomy options to reduce recurrence when appropriate
• Same-week availability and shoe/trim coaching to prevent future issues

Will it hurt?
We numb the toe first; most patients feel pressure, not pain, during the procedure.

How long is recovery?
Many people are back in regular shoes within 1–3 days. Keep the area clean and follow the dressing plan.

Will it come back?
It can. For repeat cases, a partial matrixectomy permanently narrows the nail edge to lower the chance of recurrence.

Do I need antibiotics?
Only if there’s a true infection—we’ll decide based on your exam.

End the cycle of pain and home “bathroom surgery.” Get it treated safely and comfortably.