Toenail Surgery: Post-Op Instructions

Day of Surgery

You may expect any of the following:

There may be bleeding through the bandage. This is no cause for alarm.
Some soreness may be present when the anesthesia wears off. Two (2) Aspirin, Tylenol, Motrin, or similar tablets, will relieve the discomfort
The toe may begin to drain slightly, with some procedures, and may continue to do so for a couple of weeks. This will stain the adhesive strip. The toe may appear to be infected, red, and sore. This is normal.
The area of the toe just behind the cuticle may turn red and swell slightly with some procedures. This is no cause for alarm.
Dr. Thomajan will continue to see you regularly until you are healed.

Remove the dressing in 24 hours. If the adhesive strip sticks, soak your foot in warm water (not hot). If needed, you may also apply hydrogen peroxide, only to loosen dried blood, to the toe to remove the dressing.
Begin to soak your foot in Epsom Salt using the following formula - First, fill a basin with warm water until the water level will just cover your toes. Next, mix ¼ cup Epsom Salts into the water. Then, place your foot in the water and soak for 10 minutes. You may repeat this procedure twice daily for a week.
After soaking your foot, pat it dry with a clean cloth. Let the toe air dry for 3-5 minutes and apply any medications that Dr. Thomajan may have prescribed at this time. You may also use Neosporin or Triple Antibiotic. Cover your toe with an adhesive strip.

If you are looking for foot care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.