Ingrown toenail? Laser surgery in Berlin, precise and targeting the cause

At Dr. Homssi's practice in Berlin, a narrow strip of the ingrown nail edge is removed under local anaesthetic. The corresponding growth zone of the nail root is then precisely ablated with a medical laser. The laser works precisely, with little bleeding, and reduces germs. As a result, the wound usually heals quickly.

No. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you will not feel any pain during treatment. Most patients only need a mild painkiller for 1 to 2 days.

The procedure itself takes about 15–25 minutes per toe. Including the pre-procedure consultation, the time for the Oberst nerve block to take effect, laser ablation and dressing, you will be at our Berlin practice for around 45–60 minutes.

Most patients are able to go about their daily lives again by the next day. Complete wound healing usually takes 1–2 weeks. Sport and closed shoes are possible again after about 2–3 weeks.

No procedure can rule out regrowth completely. According to our practice's own evaluation, after targeted laser ablation of the nail growth zone (matrix cauterisation) the nail does not grow in again in around 9 out of 10 patients. This is not a promise for the individual case; the course depends on the findings and aftercare, among other things. According to a Cochrane review, surgical procedures that ablate the growth zone prevent recurrence better than treatment without surgery.

The dressing must be kept dry for the first 48 hours. After that, daily antiseptic foot baths (e.g. with octenidine or povidone-iodine) and dressing changes. After about a week you send us photos of the wound via the personal link in our email; an appointment at the practice is usually not necessary. The wound is usually fully covered with new skin after 10 to 14 days.

Yes. The procedure is carried out as an outpatient under local anaesthetic (Oberst nerve block). You are awake throughout and can leave the practice immediately after treatment. Please do not drive yourself on the day of treatment: the toe is numb and bandaged. Plan to travel home by taxi, public transport or with someone accompanying you.

Yes. The laser method is particularly advantageous for people with diabetes: minimally invasive, with little bleeding and with an antibacterial laser effect, which is a key point in diabetic neuropathy and angiopathy. A stable metabolic condition is a prerequisite; we coordinate aftercare closely with your GP or diabetologist.

We usually perform laser matrix cauterisation from around the age of 10. Younger children can also be treated if they are willing and cooperate well; we discuss this at the initial consultation. In mild cases, conservative methods such as nail braces are considered first. The method is suitable for adults of all ages.

The price depends on the extent, mainly the number of nail corners treated: around €600 for one, around €700 for two, around €800 for three and around €900 for four nail corners. Dr. Homssi will tell you the exact price after the medical consultation. You will receive a written cost estimate in advance. Local anaesthetic, laser matrix cauterisation, dressing and a follow-up check are included. Billing follows the German medical fee schedule (GOÄ); private health insurers often reimburse the costs.

Most people with office jobs can return to work the next day. For jobs that involve standing or walking, we discuss the length of time off work individually; it is usually only a few days.

Both procedures ablate the nail growth zone and avoid stitches. The laser seals small blood vessels during the procedure. We will discuss which procedure suits you in the consultation.

Yes, in many cases laser treatment is the appropriate next treatment after an Emmert procedure. We assess the findings during the examination.

A local anaesthetic is generally possible. If the procedure is not urgent, we often start with conservative treatment and plan the laser treatment for after the birth.

No, you can book an appointment directly. A referral may only be necessary if your health insurance provides for a GP-centred care model.

We work with a CO2 laser. It precisely ablates the lateral growth zone of the nail (matrix). That is why no stitches are needed and the wound area stays small. The device is serviced by the manufacturer once a year and undergoes regular safety checks.