Dealing with Improper Nail Growth: Should You See a Dermatologist or Surgeon?

The nails are not growing properly?

Previously, my nail broke, and the new growth is not healthy because it didn't break completely.
The new nail is growing underneath the old one, which is causing it to grow into the skin.
Should I have it removed? Should I see a dermatologist or a surgeon? Thank you.

sccot, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/06

Dr. Huang Junxiong reply Surgery

It is advisable for you to visit a hospital for a physician's evaluation to make an accurate assessment; it is recommended to see a surgeon.

Reply Date: 2002/11/06

More Info

When dealing with improper nail growth, particularly when a nail has broken and the new growth is not developing correctly—such as growing into the surrounding skin (a condition known as ingrown toenail or fingernail)—it is essential to seek appropriate medical advice. In your case, the best course of action would be to consult a dermatologist or a podiatrist (foot specialist) rather than a general surgeon. Dermatologists specialize in skin, hair, and nail conditions, while podiatrists focus specifically on foot and nail issues.
If the nail is growing into the skin, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and even infection. Ignoring this issue may result in more severe complications, including chronic pain or the development of an abscess. Therefore, it is advisable to address the problem sooner rather than later.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Diagnosis: A dermatologist or podiatrist will examine your nail and surrounding tissue to determine the extent of the problem. They will assess whether the nail is ingrown and if there is any infection present.

2. Treatment Options: If the ingrown nail is causing significant discomfort or has become infected, the doctor may recommend several treatment options:
- Conservative Management: In mild cases, soaking the affected area in warm water and keeping it clean may help. The doctor might also suggest using topical antibiotics if there is a risk of infection.

- Nail Trimming: If the nail is only partially ingrown, the doctor may be able to trim the nail to relieve pressure and allow it to grow out properly.

- Surgical Intervention: In more severe cases, especially if the nail continues to grow improperly or if there is recurrent infection, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary. This could involve removing part of the nail or, in some cases, the entire nail matrix (the tissue under the nail that produces new nail cells) to prevent future ingrowth.

3. Prevention: After treatment, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice on nail care to prevent recurrence. This may include proper nail trimming techniques, wearing appropriate footwear, and maintaining good foot hygiene.

4. When to Seek Help: If you experience symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, redness, or pus, these may indicate an infection, and you should seek medical attention promptly.

5. Self-Care: While waiting for your appointment, you can manage discomfort by keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding tight shoes, and using over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.

In summary, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or podiatrist for your nail growth issue. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. Ignoring the problem may lead to complications, so seeking professional help is the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Nail Issues: When to See a Dermatologist for Care

Hello Doctor: I usually have a habit of getting gel manicures, and recently when I removed the polish, I noticed that the tips of my nails seem to be slightly lifted (similar to an ingrown nail, but not as severe). I have a history of nail biting since childhood, so I’ve noticed ...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
First, consult a dermatologist for an examination to check for any abnormalities.

Understanding Toenail Issues: When to See a Specialist for Pain and Deformity

Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing a problem with my toenail (big toe) for some time, which I initially thought was a fungal infection like onychomycosis. Since it hasn't been painful often, I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, I noticed that the toenail ha...

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! Suitable specialties include dermatology, orthopedics, general surgery, and plastic surgery. The handling of your case is related to the patient population of the physician. It is recommended that you first visit the dermatology department at a local or regional hospital, ...

Understanding Thickened Nails: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello Dr. Lee: I previously had a friend who got his hand caught in a door, and when his nail grew back, it became very thick. He followed someone else's advice and used a nail file to grind down the nail until it was almost to the point of bleeding. However, the nail still ...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: I suggest that your friend consult a nearby dermatologist to determine whether the nail deformity is due to trauma, a fungal infection causing thickening, or another condition. Treatment should be based on the diagnosis. Thank you!

Understanding Skin Spots: Should You See a Dermatologist or Cosmetic Specialist?

Hello, Dr. Du. I previously visited a clinic regarding some spots, and the doctors advised against removing them due to potential side effects. I would like to hear your opinion. If I still want to remove the spots, should I first see a dermatologist or a medical aesthetics speci...

Dr. Du Zhiqiang reply Dermatology
Dear Joanna, Hello, whether to "remove" spots is a matter of aesthetics and personal preference; there is no absolute yes or no. However, it is essential to first visit a clinic to determine the type of spots, whether they can be removed, and what methods can be used f...