The treated strip of nail is not designed to grow back, because phenol treats the growth cells that produce it. The rest of the nail keeps growing normally, so the toe looks slightly narrower rather than bare. A small amount of regrowth happens in a minority of cases, which is one reason your podiatrist reviews the toe as it heals. Regrowth can be retreated if it occurs.

Most people return to desk work or school within a day or two, wearing an open or roomy shoe. Jobs that involve steel-cap boots, long periods standing or wet environments usually need longer. Swimming, sand and contact sport wait until the wound has closed. Your podiatrist gives you a return date at your review rather than at the procedure itself.

Yes, both big toes, or more than one nail edge, can often be treated in the same visit. Your podiatrist will talk through whether that is sensible for you, since doing both at once means both feet are dressed and you may find walking more awkward for the first day. Appointment length and cost differ when more than one toe is treated.

No referral is needed to see a podiatrist. You can book directly and claim through private health extras if you have that cover. A referral matters only for specific funding pathways, such as a Chronic Disease Management plan through Medicare, DVA or an NDIS plan. Bring any relevant paperwork with you so the front desk can check what applies.

It can be, but the assessment is more detailed. Your podiatrist checks blood flow and nerve sensation in the foot before deciding, because both affect wound healing. In some cases the safer path is conservative nail care with closer monitoring, or coordinating with your GP or a high-risk foot service before any procedure. If surgery goes ahead, dressing checks are scheduled more frequently until the toe has fully healed.

Plan not to drive yourself home. The anaesthetic leaves the toe numb for a few hours, which can affect pedal feel, and the toe is dressed with a bulky bandage on the day. Bring an open-toed shoe or sandal for the trip home. Most people are back in roomy enclosed shoes within days, guided by comfort and your podiatrist’s dressing advice.

And the ACF block: