Why Post-Surgery Infection Risk Isn't Zero and How We Minimise It

One thing every patient worries about when considering private ingrown toenail surgery in London is the possibility of infection. Even with the treatment of experienced podiatrists, in a sterile environment, and with all the right precautions, it is a risk that is never completely eradicated.

The skin around the nail has already been irritated or broken by the ingrown toenail itself; therefore, the area is far more vulnerable than it normally would be. What counts is understanding why this happens and how Harley Street Nail Specialist Clinic works to keep that risk as low as possible.

Why Infection Can Still Happen?

Once a piece of the nail has pierced the skin, bacteria can enter the surrounding tissue. By the time a patient arrives in the clinic, the toe may already be swollen, tender, or slightly infected.

Surgery immediately removes the cause of the problem, but the tissue still needs time to settle. That is why mild redness or clear discharge during the early days of healing can be normal.

It is only when the toe becomes increasingly painful, hot, or produces coloured discharge that problems arise. Those are the signs that bacteria have taken advantage of the vulnerable site.

How Harley Street Nail Specialist Clinic Reduces Risk?

The clinic follows strict infection control protocols. The surgical room is fully sterilised, equipment is single-use or professionally disinfected, and the toe is carefully cleansed prior to any work commencing. Local anaesthetic allows the podiatrist to work with precision, keeping unnecessary trauma to a minimum.

After the procedure, dressings are applied in such a way that the wound is protected without moisture being trapped. Patients are given clear guidance on how to keep the area dry and when to change dressings, and when to return for follow-up.

Good aftercare is one of the strongest protections against infection, so the clinic makes sure no one leaves with unanswered questions.

When to Seek Help?

Most patients heal without any issues; however, one should always be aware in case something goes wrong. If the pain increases rather than decreases, if swelling increases, or if discharge turns yellow or green, for example, the clinic wants to know about it immediately. Early advice can help stop a minor issue from developing into something more persistent. This is also a reason private ingrown toenail surgery in London is carried out with follow-up appointments already scheduled. Monitoring recovery helps to ensure the toe continues improving.

Need Personal Guidance?

If you are dealing with an ingrown toenail that continues to flare up or want a clear understanding of the infection risk, then the team at Harley Street Nail Specialist Clinic can help. Book an appointment or speak to a specialist for tailored advice.

If you seek urgent attention outside of clinic hours, kindly contact NHS 111 or visit your nearest A&E.