Toenail Surgery
FOR FUNGAL NAILS

Fungal Toenail Removal Surgery

Say goodbye to severe fungal toe nail infections and hello to healthier and more beautiful toenails, with our expert fungal toe nail removal surgery at pod. 


our specialised and combined treatment options are designed to safely and effectively remove even the most severe and damaged of toenails, helping you to achieve clear, healthy nails and giving you the confidence and comfort you deserve.

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Fungal Toenail Surgery

What is Fungal Toenail Surgery?

Fungal toenail removal surgery is a minor medical procedure that can instantly remove discoloured, thickened and long-standing fungal infections.

This surgery is typically recommended for the more severe cases of infection that have not responded to other treatments.


Fungal toenail removal surgery removes the infected and damaged toenails under local anaesthesia. Our specialised approach combines toenail removal surgery with a course of laser treatment or, in some cases a short course of oral antifungal medication, this, combined with follow-up care instructions will help avoid a re-infection and ensure effective and long-lasting results. 

Why Combined Fungal Toenail Removal Surgery?

Shorter treatment time

Combining toenail removal surgery with laser or medication significantly reduces treatment time. the absence of a thickened nail or hidden biofilms makes treatment more effective, allowing for faster results by targeting the heart of the infection directly. 


Prevent further infection

Fungal toenail removal surgery not only removes the infected nail, but it eliminates the course of the infection. This, combined with the follow-up laser or medication treatment, prevents further infection and recurrence.

Minimal discomfort

Toenail removal surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, which minimises any discomfort during the procedure. Some soreness or tenderness may occur for a few days after, but this is typically managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Personalised care

At Pod, our podiatrist will evaluate your condition and recommend a personalised plan for the best outcome for you. we work closely with your to provide the care and attention you deserve throughout the treatment process.

Improved Quality of life

Severe fungal infections can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. By removing the infected nail and treating the underlying infection, you can enjoy an improved quality of life, you can wear open-toed shoes without feeling self-conscious.

Non-Invasive

The treatment plan is non-invasive and it does not require any major surgery or hospitalisation. The toenail removal surgery is performed in the clinic on an outpatient basis and the follow-up laser or medication is also non-invasive.

See our results for yourself

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What's the cost?

OPTION 1: Surgery + Laser Treatment


Consultation without a fungal nail test £35


Consultation with a fungal nail test £95


Fungal Toenail Removal surgery with Local Anaesthesia

From £270+ this will depend on how many nails require removal, up to 5 toenails can be surgically removed at one appointment. Cost includes 3 follow-up appointments and all dressings.


Lunula Laser is a course of 4-6 treatments £60-£100 per treatment depending on how many nails require treatment. No need to pay for the whole course upfront, pay as you go along.


Pod Hygiene & Prevention Pack - this includes the podiatrists recommended aftercare products and sanitisation of all of your footwear, this is vital to prevent the possibility of a re-infection £99




OPTION 2: Surgery + Prescription Medication


Consultation without a fungal nail test £35


Consultation with a fungal nail test £95


Fungal Toenail Removal surgery with Local Anaesthesia

From £270+ this will depend on how many nails require removal, up to 5 toenails can be surgically removed at one appointment. Cost includes 3 follow-up appointments and all dressings.


Private prescription for an initial 6 week supply of oral antifungal medication and baseline liver function blood test £200


Depending on the severity of the initial fungal toenail infection prior to the surgical removal of the nail, a further 6 week course of antifungal medication may be recommended, if so, a further liver function blood test will be carried out, along with a repeat private prescription £200


Pod Hygiene & Prevention Pack - this includes the podiatrists recommended aftercare products and sanitisation of all of your footwear, this is vital to prevent the possibility of a re-infection £99

How Pod Works

Step 1:

Book an appointment


This can be done over the phone, by email, or the easiest way is through our online booking system.


Step 2:

Meet your podiatrist


your podiatrist will review your medical history and lifestyle, examine your feet, then provide a diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you.

Step 3:

On your way to better feet!


Your foot treatment journey begins here, with advice and support along the way. 

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What our patients think

Great, professional, and a delight
Yusra Alageli

The first thing you notice, is how lovely Zoe's clinic is. Very clean and modern. Zoe herself was great, professional, and a delight. She talked me through everything, she's up to date with all the latest treatments and advises what's appropriate for you. Very reasonably priced. Will definitely be going to Pod Chiropody again. Thank you Zoe

Put me completely at ease
Rachael Kennedy

Lovely premises & a warm welcome. Zoe talked through all the treatment options & costs openly to allow me to make a decision on which course I wanted to take. Put me completely at ease & explained what was happening at each stage, which was reassuring. Can't recommend highly enough, thank you!

Comfortable, fresh and modern
Velmont Media

Over recent months I have had excellent attention for fungal nail infection .... Zoe is very thorough in her approach and the results so far are definitely pleasing. It is undoubtedly worth the 35 minute drive from Market Harborough. In addition...The clinic environment is  comfortable, fresh and modern. I have no hesitation in recommending Pod Chiropody and Laser Clinic.

My son is wart free
Laura Murfin

My son was extremely anxious and Zoe couldn't have been more patient with him, scheduling appointments around school times.... she explained exactly what she was going to do to him and won his trust.... pleased to say my son is wart free and I cannot thank Zoe enough..

Love this place, very clean and friendly
Shirley Jaques

I absolutely love this place, very clean and friendly.  Covid aware.  Zoe knows exactly what to do and explains why she does things.

Nicest people
Sean Oz

Really impressed with the professionalism of Zoe and the microwave treatment done on my varruca which had been a stubborn issue for a few years. Zoe is one of the nicest people you could meet and makes you feel very relaxed and comfortable. I am now free of varrucas and highly recommend this treatment

Knowledgeable, lovely and friendly person
Vendula Cremzova

Great Clinic and excellent service. Zoe is a very knowledgeable, lovely and friendly person. I could not get rid of a verruca for over 4 years which was very frustrating. I am finally free of it thanks to Zoe. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Relaxed atmosphere
Steph Stevenson

Lovely welcome, and very informative about the fungal nail treatment, relaxed atmosphere. Would recommend Zoe to anyone wishing to try out different  treatment for there fungal nail needs.

Professional
Samantha Winters

Sounds weird, but I actually ENJOYED having my verucae (is that the plural?) frozen to death. Zoe is terrific, extremely pleasant, utterly professional, and everything was SPOTLESS. 12/10 on every front.

Modern and well equipped
Sandra Waller

Delighted to have found Pod Chiropody. The surgery is very modern and well equipped. Zoe is friendly and welcoming and immediately put me at ease. She explained treatment options and carried out procedures so carefully and patiently that I felt very relaxed. I can definitely recommend Pod Chiropody if you have any foot problems.

Received great advice
Neil Selby

I had quite a few stubborn verrucae over both of my feet which I had tried all sorts of treatments over the years to cure. I also had a toenail that had become detached and infected when I first visited Zoe's practice. I received great advice from Zoe and along with use of the Swift Microwave treatment I am now clear of verrucae for the first time in many years. My toenail that I was expecting to lose has also fully recovered. Thank you so much for your help.

Great treatment options
Charlie Gresswell

Zoe is lovely and very patient. The practice is a relaxing space and has some great treatment options. If required I would definitely use her services again. Thank you!

Comfortable, fresh and modern
Jane MacDonald

Over recent months I have had excellent attention for fungal nail infection at Pod Chiropody where I have had the laser treatment. Zoe is very thorough in her approach and the results so far are definitely pleasing. It is undoubtedly worth the 35 minute drive from Market Harborough. In addition, the set up throughout Covid has been extremely safe with every sensible precaution being taken. The clinic environment is  comfortable, fresh and modern. I have no hesitation in recommending Pod Chiropody and Laser Clinic.

Amazing!
Steve Mason

3 Months of not being able to walk on my left heel due to verucca.  Went for the Swift Microwave treatment and within 1 week I was pain free! Amazing! Very professional, free checkup 6 weeks after treatment where she tidied it all up... no 2nd treatment needed, no hard sell. Amazing service, highly recommended!

Absolutely Brilliant
Karen Kalaway

Zoe was absolutely brilliant. I had to drive 40min to see her as she was the only chiropodist who did laser for a verruca.  She was well worth the drive.  Absolutely lovely, and very knowledgeable.  Highly recommended.

Friendly and professional!
Lee Matthews

After struggling with over the counter treatments for years I opted for the swift microwave treatment, which worked within weeks! So quick and easy, and Zoe is very friendly and professional!

Changed My Life!
Sheila Sahota

Excellent service at POD Leicester, very friendly and knowledgable of my issues and the treatment really did work. I would highly recommend visiting and discussing any issues you have. It has changed my life! Thanks POD.

Service was brilliant
Hamza Patel

The service was brilliant and the service offered.  Really beneficial advice and the practitioner very knowledgable and friendly.

First class
Karl Eyre

First class. Modern stylish relaxing premises possessing the latest chiropractic techniques and equipment. Welcoming and friendly hospitality. I suffered from a large painful verruca for nine years. Having tried nearly every treatment under the sun and at my wits end, I decided to explore Swift microwave treatment. I live in Nottingham and the nearest place for Swift microwave treatment was Pod Chiropody & Laser Clinic. I made an appointment for a consultation and was so impressed with Zoe Zavery and her practice I went ahead with the treatment. After only one treatment using Swift microwave my verruca has now gone. I would highly recommend this treatment for anyone with a verruca. There is no pain or inconvenience immediately after the treatment. Thank you, Zoe.

Life changing treatment
Abubakr Mohammed

I would recommend this Clinic, Excellent service, friendly delivery, very clean atmosphere. Had a wart the size of a penny removed within a few months, life changing treatment. very friendly staff

Very professional
Ben Weston

Really pleased with the service, the treatment they use is amazing. Friendly approach and very professional. Would highly recommend Pod chiropody to anyone A+++

Professional
Neil Garner

I can thoroughly recommend Pod Chiropody. The service they provide is professional and has been highly effective in treating my infected nail.

Friendly service
Admin Zeus Photoshoot

Highly professional and friendly service

Kim Kearns
Ollie Patterson
James Tilford
Great, professional, and a delight
Yusra Alageli

The first thing you notice, is how lovely Zoe's clinic is. Very clean and modern. Zoe herself was great, professional, and a delight. She talked me through everything, she's up to date with all the latest treatments and advises what's appropriate for you. Very reasonably priced. Will definitely be going to Pod Chiropody again. Thank you Zoe

Put me completely at ease
Rachael Kennedy

Lovely premises & a warm welcome. Zoe talked through all the treatment options & costs openly to allow me to make a decision on which course I wanted to take. Put me completely at ease & explained what was happening at each stage, which was reassuring. Can't recommend highly enough, thank you!

Comfortable, fresh and modern
Velmont Media

Over recent months I have had excellent attention for fungal nail infection .... Zoe is very thorough in her approach and the results so far are definitely pleasing. It is undoubtedly worth the 35 minute drive from Market Harborough. In addition...The clinic environment is  comfortable, fresh and modern. I have no hesitation in recommending Pod Chiropody and Laser Clinic.

My son is wart free
Laura Murfin

My son was extremely anxious and Zoe couldn't have been more patient with him, scheduling appointments around school times.... she explained exactly what she was going to do to him and won his trust.... pleased to say my son is wart free and I cannot thank Zoe enough..

Love this place, very clean and friendly
Shirley Jaques

I absolutely love this place, very clean and friendly.  Covid aware.  Zoe knows exactly what to do and explains why she does things.

Nicest people
Sean Oz

Really impressed with the professionalism of Zoe and the microwave treatment done on my varruca which had been a stubborn issue for a few years. Zoe is one of the nicest people you could meet and makes you feel very relaxed and comfortable. I am now free of varrucas and highly recommend this treatment

Knowledgeable, lovely and friendly person
Vendula Cremzova

Great Clinic and excellent service. Zoe is a very knowledgeable, lovely and friendly person. I could not get rid of a verruca for over 4 years which was very frustrating. I am finally free of it thanks to Zoe. I cannot recommend her highly enough.

Relaxed atmosphere
Steph Stevenson

Lovely welcome, and very informative about the fungal nail treatment, relaxed atmosphere. Would recommend Zoe to anyone wishing to try out different  treatment for there fungal nail needs.

Professional
Samantha Winters

Sounds weird, but I actually ENJOYED having my verucae (is that the plural?) frozen to death. Zoe is terrific, extremely pleasant, utterly professional, and everything was SPOTLESS. 12/10 on every front.

Modern and well equipped
Sandra Waller

Delighted to have found Pod Chiropody. The surgery is very modern and well equipped. Zoe is friendly and welcoming and immediately put me at ease. She explained treatment options and carried out procedures so carefully and patiently that I felt very relaxed. I can definitely recommend Pod Chiropody if you have any foot problems.

Received great advice
Neil Selby

I had quite a few stubborn verrucae over both of my feet which I had tried all sorts of treatments over the years to cure. I also had a toenail that had become detached and infected when I first visited Zoe's practice. I received great advice from Zoe and along with use of the Swift Microwave treatment I am now clear of verrucae for the first time in many years. My toenail that I was expecting to lose has also fully recovered. Thank you so much for your help.

Great treatment options
Charlie Gresswell

Zoe is lovely and very patient. The practice is a relaxing space and has some great treatment options. If required I would definitely use her services again. Thank you!

Comfortable, fresh and modern
Jane MacDonald

Over recent months I have had excellent attention for fungal nail infection at Pod Chiropody where I have had the laser treatment. Zoe is very thorough in her approach and the results so far are definitely pleasing. It is undoubtedly worth the 35 minute drive from Market Harborough. In addition, the set up throughout Covid has been extremely safe with every sensible precaution being taken. The clinic environment is  comfortable, fresh and modern. I have no hesitation in recommending Pod Chiropody and Laser Clinic.

Amazing!
Steve Mason

3 Months of not being able to walk on my left heel due to verucca.  Went for the Swift Microwave treatment and within 1 week I was pain free! Amazing! Very professional, free checkup 6 weeks after treatment where she tidied it all up... no 2nd treatment needed, no hard sell. Amazing service, highly recommended!

Absolutely Brilliant
Karen Kalaway

Zoe was absolutely brilliant. I had to drive 40min to see her as she was the only chiropodist who did laser for a verruca.  She was well worth the drive.  Absolutely lovely, and very knowledgeable.  Highly recommended.

Friendly and professional!
Lee Matthews

After struggling with over the counter treatments for years I opted for the swift microwave treatment, which worked within weeks! So quick and easy, and Zoe is very friendly and professional!

Changed My Life!
Sheila Sahota

Excellent service at POD Leicester, very friendly and knowledgable of my issues and the treatment really did work. I would highly recommend visiting and discussing any issues you have. It has changed my life! Thanks POD.

Service was brilliant
Hamza Patel

The service was brilliant and the service offered.  Really beneficial advice and the practitioner very knowledgable and friendly.

First class
Karl Eyre

First class. Modern stylish relaxing premises possessing the latest chiropractic techniques and equipment. Welcoming and friendly hospitality. I suffered from a large painful verruca for nine years. Having tried nearly every treatment under the sun and at my wits end, I decided to explore Swift microwave treatment. I live in Nottingham and the nearest place for Swift microwave treatment was Pod Chiropody & Laser Clinic. I made an appointment for a consultation and was so impressed with Zoe Zavery and her practice I went ahead with the treatment. After only one treatment using Swift microwave my verruca has now gone. I would highly recommend this treatment for anyone with a verruca. There is no pain or inconvenience immediately after the treatment. Thank you, Zoe.

Life changing treatment
Abubakr Mohammed

I would recommend this Clinic, Excellent service, friendly delivery, very clean atmosphere. Had a wart the size of a penny removed within a few months, life changing treatment. very friendly staff

Very professional
Ben Weston

Really pleased with the service, the treatment they use is amazing. Friendly approach and very professional. Would highly recommend Pod chiropody to anyone A+++

Professional
Neil Garner

I can thoroughly recommend Pod Chiropody. The service they provide is professional and has been highly effective in treating my infected nail.

Friendly service
Admin Zeus Photoshoot

Highly professional and friendly service

Kim Kearns
Ollie Patterson
James Tilford

We've helped hundreds of patients win back their confidence. Book a consultation with an expert podiatrist and see how we can help you

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FAQ’s

It's important to discuss these questions with your podiatrist to understand the best course of treatment for a fungal toenail infection.

      What is the purpose of the surgery?

          Surgical removal of a nail might be necessary with severe fungus, recurring fungus or when a large section of a nail is diseased or damaged. After medical removal, the nail bed is exposed, allowing treatment with Laser and topical medications to reach any deeper, underlying fungus, without any barriers in the way. 

      How is the surgery performed?

          Surgical nail removal can be done in your podiatrist’s clinic. Your podiatrist will give you an injection in the affected toe to prevent pain. Then your doctor will use a tool to loosen the skin around the nail and separate the nail from the skin to gently remove the entire nail. 

      How many nails can be removed at one time?

          Up to five toenails can safely removed at one appointment, if multiple toenails are affected, we usually try and treat one foot at a time. We will always wait for initial recovery to take place, before carrying out any further surgery.

      How long is the procedure?

          This depends on the number of nails being removed, 1-2 nails usually takes approximately 2 hours, this time allows for completion of consent forms and final checks, the local anaesthesia to take effect, the removal of the toenail(s) and all dressings to be applied. 

      Is the surgery painful?

          The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the affected toe, reducing the risk of pain during the procedure. Some people may experience some mild pain and discomfort after the surgery, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.


          It's important to keep in mind that the goal of the surgery is to remove the infected toenail and allow for the growth of a healthy nail. While there may be some temporary discomfort associated with the procedure, most people find that the benefits of having the infected toenail removed outweigh any temporary discomfort or pain.

      How long does the recovery take?

          Overall, the length of recovery after fungal toenail removal surgery can vary, but most people can return to their normal activities within 10 - 14 days. However, it can take several months for the new toenail to fully grow in and replace the removed toenail.

      What is the success rate of the surgery?

          The success rate of fungal toenail removal surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the severity of the fungal infection, the type of procedure performed, and the person's overall health. In general, fungal toenail removal surgery has a high success rate, with most people experiencing significant improvement in the appearance of their toenails after the procedure. Your podiatrist will often combine surgery with a course of laser treatment and, or, a short course of the oral antifungal medication, this combination accelerates results and increases results to 89% - 95%!


          However, it's important to note that fungal toenail infections can be stubborn and difficult to treat. In some cases, even after successful surgery, the fungus can return. To help reduce the risk of recurrence, it's important to take steps to prevent future infections, such as keeping the feet clean and dry and wearing appropriate footwear.

      Will I need rehabilitation after the surgery?

          In most cases, physical therapy or rehabilitation is not required after fungal toenail removal surgery. The procedure typically involves removing the affected toenail and allowing for the growth of a healthy nail.


          After the procedure, you may need to avoid strenuous activities for a few days to a week, but most people can return to their normal activities relatively quickly. You may need to follow some basic care instructions, such as keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding soaking the foot in water for too long, such as long baths or in swimming pools and wearing appropriate footwear.

      Will I need time of work after the surgery?

          The amount of time you will need to take off work or your regular activities following toenail removal surgery can vary depending on factors such as the extent of the procedure, and the type of work or activities you normally perform.

          In general, toenail removal surgery is an outpatient procedure that can be performed in the podiatry clinic, and it usually takes less than an hour to complete. 


          You may experience some discomfort and swelling for the first few days after the procedure, but most people are able to return to their regular activities, including work, within a few days to a week after surgery.

          Your podiatrist will provide you with specific instructions for care and follow-up after the procedure, which may include keeping the affected foot elevated, applying ice, taking pain medication, and avoiding certain activities until the toe has healed. It is important to follow your podiatrist’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

      Are there any risks with the surgery?

          Like any surgical procedure, toenail removal surgery, carries some risks and potential complications. However, the risks are generally low, and the vast majority of people who undergo this procedure do not experience any significant problems. Some possible risks and complications of toenail removal surgery include:

          1. Infection: There is a small risk of infection following toenail surgery. To reduce the risk of infection, your podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics, provide you with specific instructions for wound care, and advise you to keep the affected foot clean and dry.
          2. Bleeding: Toenail surgery may cause bleeding, particularly if a large portion of the nail is removed. Your podiatrist will apply pressure to the site of the surgery to help stop any bleeding.
          3. Nerve damage: Toenail surgery can potentially damage nerves in the toe, leading to numbness, tingling, or other sensory changes. This is a rare complication.
          4. Regrowth of the nail: In some cases, the nail may grow back thicker or misshapen following toenail surgery. This is more likely if the nail bed is not fully removed during the procedure.
          5. Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the anesthesia used during the procedure.

          It is important to discuss any potential risks and complications of toenail removal surgery with your podiatrist before the procedure to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared. Additionally, be sure to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

      Will my insurance cover the cost of the surgery?

          The coverage for fungal toenail surgery or toenail avulsion may vary depending on your insurance plan and your particular situation.

          In general, most health insurance plans do cover medically necessary toenail removal surgeries, including those related to fungal infections, if they are deemed medically necessary. However, coverage may be subject to deductibles, co-payments, or other out-of-pocket expenses that you may be responsible for.


          To determine whether your insurance will cover the cost of fungal toenail surgery, you should check with your insurance provider and review the terms of your policy. 


          It is important to note that cosmetic toenail removal surgeries, which are performed solely for the purpose of improving the appearance of the toenail, are usually not covered by insurance. If you are considering toenail removal surgery for cosmetic reasons, you should check with your insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage.

      Is there a non-surgical option for a fungal nail?

          Yes, there are several alternatives to surgery for treating a fungal toenail infection, including:

          1. Topical antifungal medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams, lotions, and nail polishes can be used to treat new or mild fungal toenail infections. These medications work by killing the fungi that cause the infection.
          2. Oral antifungal medications: For more severe fungal toenail infections, your podiatrist may prescribe an oral antifungal medication, which you take by mouth. These medications are more potent than topical treatments and may require several weeks or months of treatment to be effective.
          3. Laser treatment: Laser therapy is a relatively new treatment option for fungal toenail infections. The laser targets the fungus, killing it without damaging the surrounding tissue. This treatment is performed  in the clinic and requires several sessions to be effective.
          4. Home remedies: Some people try home remedies for fungal toenail infections, such as applying tea tree oil, vinegar, or garlic to the affected toenail. While these remedies may help to reduce the symptoms of the infection, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.

          It is important to consult with your podiatrist before attempting to treat a fungal toenail infection, as untreated infections can lead to complications and spread to other nails or parts of the body. Your podiatrist can help you determine the best treatment approach based on the severity and underlying cause of your infection.

      Can I still have a toenail after the surgery?

          Typically takes several months for the new nail to grow back. If the toenail was removed due to a fungal infection, it is important to treat the underlying infection to prevent the new nail from becoming infected as it grows back. Your podiatrist may prescribe antifungal medication or combine other treatments such as laser to prevent the infection from returning.


          It is important to follow your podiatrist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. In most cases, you will be able to resume normal activities within a few days to a week after toenail removal surgery.

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