Dungannon Foot Clinic now offers toenail reconstruction provided by specialist Podiatrist Margaret Ward. A specialist gel that is layered on top of an existing unsightly or misshapen nail so that the nail is more aesthetically pleasing.

The length of time that the nail reconstruction lasts will vary from person to person. The new nail will generally last between 4 and 8 weeks after which another nail can be re-applied at a later date.

The nail created under toenail reconstruction is described as a prosthetic, it is not an acrylic nail, instead it is designed to look and feel exactly the same as a natural nail. Toenail reconstruction uses a specialised gel that is flexible, whereas the gel used in salons for fingernails is hard. The gel needs to be flexible to allow the toenail to move with the natural movements of the toe, this ensures the nail will last longer. The nail that is reconstructed will not damage the natural nail or restrict its growth, this allows the natural nail to grow beneath the prosthetic.

• Firstly, the nail is reduced to remove any loose fragments and reduce thickening.
• The toenail is cleaned to remove oil and the area is disinfected.
• A solution is applied to the nail plate to enhance bonding of the gel to the nail plate.
• The podiatrist will then apply the gel in layers, each layer is cured under a UV light. As soon as the desired look and thickness has been achieved the nail is then shaped and buffed smooth.

The reconstructed toenail can be treated exactly the same way as you would treat a natural nail, if you wish to you can apply nail varnish and use a nail varnish remover which is acetone free.

Toenail reconstruction is suitable for:

• Thick nails
• Men and women
• Nail tufts or spikes that have been left after nail surgery
• Discoloured nails
• Cracked nails
• Lifted nails
• Fungal nails
• Traumatised nails
• Psoriatic nails