Do you suffer from ingrown toenails or verrucae?

Health and Sport Central offers a diverse range of podiatric surgery treatments for a variety of conditions.

Having trained as a Podiatric Surgeon, Ben's knowledge and experience in advanced surgical management allows him to be well equipped to offer you insight and advice on how best to manage your concerns.

Toenail Surgery

Do you have problems with your nails curving down into the skin? Ingrown nails commonly occur along the sides of the toenails, most frequently in the big toenails but they can occur in any of your toes. Sometimes there is inflammation, which causes the toe to become red, swollen, hot and painful but for many people there can be pain without inflammation as well.

Most frequently, ingrown nails occur with poor nail cutting technique. However they also happen with trauma, where the nail is stubbed or has something dropped on it. They can also be hereditary.

Surgical management of ingrown nails involves a short procedure under local anaesthetic. The portion of irritating toenail is removed, and a chemical solution is applied to the base of your nail to help prevent regrowth.

Health and Sport Central has a 99% success rate with this type of procedure.

Verruca Surgery

Verrucae are small wart-like lesions on the soles of your foot. When over a pressure point they can be quite painful. Verrucae usually have a rough circular shaped appearance, and small black dots can be seen within the rough skin. These are not roots, as commonly believed, but bleeding within the wart from pressure. You may have a single verruca, or they may appear in clusters.

Surgical management of verrucae is one form of treatment for verrucae. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, and the verrucoid tissue is dissected out. A special machine called a hyfrecator is then used to treat the surrounding tissue.

If you have been diagnosed with verrucae, or are unsure about painful lesions on your feet, come in and see us for consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your individual needs.


FAQ

Why should I have surgery?

Conservative management will often provide temporary relief, but if pain persists surgery can provide you with a more complete solution for your needs. However surgery is not always right for everyone, so you are best to talk to us to find out if it is right for you.

Will it hurt?

Most of our in-house procedures are well tolerated, and over-the-counter pain relief is enough to settle any post-operative pain.

How long does a procedure take?

We allow an hour for minor procedures.

How will I know how to look after my surgical site?

After you have had your procedure we will run through how to manage it yourself, and give you written advice to take home with you. Should you have any concerns we are more than happy to help you deal with these.

Will I have to see you again?

We like to see all our patients one week after the procedure. You may have subsequent visits following this as well.

Can I drive?

It is advisable for you to have someone drive you, since your foot will continue to be numb for a few hours after surgery, and you are required to elevate the foot.

Do I have to take time off work to have surgery?

Usually we recommend that you have the afternoon off for our minor procedures, though this may depend on your individual occupation and will be discussed with your Podiatrist.

When will I be able to return to sport?

Usually with minor procedures you will be able to return to sport after approximately 7-10 days.

How much will it cost?

The cost varies dependent on your individual needs. Minor surgery is usually around $300-$400.

Will medical insurance cover it?

This will depend on your individual policy. It is best you discuss this with your insurance provider directly.

What are the success rates?

Our ingrown toenail surgery has a success rate of 99%. Verruca success rates vary depending on the size, location and type of verruca. You are best to come in and discuss your individual concerns.

Can I eat and drink before my procedure?

Absolutely. Prior to coming in for your procedure, you do not need to do anything different from your usual routine.