What you are describing can be caused by an ingrown toenail or an infection around the toe caused by cutting the skin during a pedicure. The infection resulting from an ingrown toenail should be treated not only with oral antibiotics but also meticulous removal of the portion of the nail that is cutting into the adjacent skin.

I do not recommend partial permanent removal of the toenail, which is frequently done by foot doctors. I recommend removing only the portion of the nail that is causing the problem on the side of the nail. I try to keep the growing portion of the nail intact. This requires careful microsurgery for the involved area and vigorous topical treatments to heal the damaged skin. The longer the condition has lasted, the longer it may take to completely resolve. Usually healing from this method results in a totally normal nail.

– Dr. Bussell

Beverly Hills Dermatology Consultants

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