General FAQs

Do I need a GP referral to see a Podiatrist?

No referral is needed! You can book directly with us for fast and effective treatment of painful ingrown toenails. However, if you are on a Medicare Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM), your GP will need to provide a referral for you to claim the rebate.

Yes. If you have podiatry cover with your private health insurance, you can claim your rebate on the spot using HICAPS, and only pay the gap.

Medicare does not routinely cover podiatry. However, if your GP has placed you on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for a set number of visits each year. Please bring your referral and paperwork with you if this applies.

Bring any referral letters (if you have one), your Medicare or private health card, a list of medications you’re taking, and the shoes you wear most often. This helps us provide the most accurate and tailored treatment.

Absolutely. At Ingrown Toenail Doc, your safety is our priority. All instruments are sterilised using hospital-grade autoclaves and our processes fully comply with Australian standards for infection control and sterilisation.

Yes, please remove nail polish or shellac before your visit. This allows us to properly assess your nail and surrounding skin. If you are unable to remove it, let us know—we can take care of it during your appointment.

Ingrown Toenail FAQs

How long does an ingrown toenail surgery take?

The whole procedure takes around 45 mins including preparation and post-care instructions. If more than one toe is required to be treated it may take up to 90 mins.

The toes that have been treated will be numb for around 90 mins to 2 hours. You will still be able to walk and ambulate after the procedure.

It is recommended that the toe is kept dry for the first 48 hours after the procedure. After that period of time, ocean swimming only would only allowed after 7 days post-procedure. No static bodies of water exposure such as rivers, lakes, ponds are recommended within the healing period.

Full recovery would normally occur with 4 weeks. Return to work would generally be within 2 days. Open-toed shoe usage for 7 days afterwards is recommended.

No crutches are required, and you will be able to walk afterwards. However, wearing loose footwear or slip-on open shoes are recomended to wear to the appointment. You are able to drive but it is recommended to have someone accompany you.

Depending on the type of work that you perform, a minimum of 48 hours off work is recommended. In the event you have a relatively sedentary role, you can return to work duties sooner. A medical note for work can be written by your podiatrist.

If the procedure is performed using a chemical matrixectomy – the likelihood of success is 98.5%. The amount of nail taken off will be factored in to resolve the ingrowing issue but also create an aesthetically pleasing result. In the unlikely event the nail regrows, the procedure will be performed at a reduced rate to ensure your satisfaction.

A total nail avulsion removes the entire nail, however the choice to perform this type of procedure is based on what the issue is., with limited scarring.

A partial nail avulsion involves removing a small section of the nail, and it achieves a good balance of cosmetic and therapeutic results, with extra special attention paid to ensure the best possible cosmetic result.

For the first two days, it’s best to wear open-toed footwear to keep your toe comfortable and allow it to heal. Try to avoid tight or restrictive shoes until the nail has fully recovered, as this will help ensure the best outcome.

To give your toe the best chance to heal properly, we recommend waiting about two weeks before getting back into strenuous physical activity.