What is Onyfix?
Onyfix is a non-surgical treatment that uses a hardened composite material to gently reshape ingrown or involuted toenails. It acts like a brace, guiding the nail to grow naturally into a healthier shape without pain or tension.
How does it work?
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Onyfix is molded to your toenail as it comes out from the skin. The toenail at this point is the flattest of its development.
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The device then over time (several months) pulls the toenail upward away from the skin fold where the ingrown toenail occurs.
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Pain typically resolves over about a months time.
What if the toenail looks infected?
Many times the toenail can get to the point that it appears infected (drainage, pain, swelling, and scab formation). In this situation often the corner of the toenail needs to be removed. There are two ways to go about this:
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Temporary removal: this involves a procedure where the toe is numbed, and the outer edge of the toenail is removed in the clinic.
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Permanent removal: this involves the same steps as above with the addition of a chemical (phenol) that is used to remove the nail root of the corner of the toenail so it permanently treats ingrowing toenails. This is utilized if you have repeat ingrowing toenails, and sometimes as first line treatment.
Afraid of Needles, or Procedures?
We have you covered. We offer nitrous oxide gas (ProNox) at our office to ease anxiety and pain associated with ingrown toenails surgery. We also provide buffered injections so these injections do not burn. We believe we offer the best experience for this procedure!
Take care of your ingrown toenail once and for all!
Onyfix FAQs
How does Onyfix work?
A foot care professional applies a composite material to the nail, which is shaped and hardened using an LED light. This brace fixes the nail in a natural shape, and as the nail grows, it retains this corrected form. The process is painless and promotes natural nail growth.
Is the Onyfix application painful?
No, applying Onyfix is completely painless. No local anesthetic is needed, and patients typically feel no discomfort during or after the procedure.
How long does the Onyfix band stay on the nail?
The composite band typically lasts 2–3 months or longer, growing out with the nail. It may stay in place until it reaches the nail’s edge or is removed by a professional.
Is Onyfix safe for everyone?
Onyfix is safe for adults, children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with diabetes. It’s not suitable for nails with active infections (which must be treated first) or certain conditions like suspected nail cancer or prior allergic reactions to Onyfix. Consult your foot care professional to confirm suitability.
How effective is Onyfix?
Onyfix is highly effective for correcting curled or ingrown nails, with clinical studies and positive patient outcomes confirming its success. Results vary based on nail condition and adherence to care instructions.
Can Onyfix prevent ingrown toenails from recurring?
By guiding the nail to grow in a natural shape, Onyfix can reduce the risk of future ingrown nails, especially if combined with proper nail care and footwear choices.
Is Onyfix covered by insurance?
Onyfix is not covered by insurance plans. However out-of-network billing may be able to cover some costs.
What conditions can Onyfix treat?
Onyfix is effective for ingrown toenails, involuted (curved or pincer) nails, and some split or detached nails. It’s best for nails that curl and dig into the skin but may not work for nails with spikes or very wide, flat shapes.
How long does the treatment take?
The application takes about 5–20 minutes per toe during a single appointment. Full correction may take 3–18 months, depending on nail growth and severity, with follow-up appointments every 2–4 months to monitor progress or apply additional bands.
Can I return to normal activities after Onyfix application?
Yes, you can resume most activities immediately, including work and wearing closed-toe shoes. Avoid swimming or soaking the toe for the first 24 hours and refrain from tight-fitting shoes to protect the band.
Can I apply nail polish with Onyfix?
Yes, you can use regular nail polish after 24 hours. Avoid acrylic or shellac nails, as they may interfere with the band.
What are the risks or side effects?
Onyfix is low-risk and hypoallergenic, with minimal chance of skin irritation. Rarely, the band may loosen or require reapplication. Infections are possible if the toe isn’t kept clean or if an existing infection wasn’t treated before application.
What if my ingrown toenail is infected?
An active infection must be treated and cleared (possibly with antibiotics) before Onyfix can be applied. Consult your foot care professional for proper treatment first.
Ingrown Toenail Removal FAQs
Why is phenol used?
Phenol is applied to destroy the nail root (matrix) in the treated area, making it less likely for the nail to regrow and cause problems again.
Does the procedure hurt?
A local anesthetic is used to numb the toe, so you don't feel pain during the surgery. As described above we use nitrous oxide gas (like at the dentist) to reduce pain and anxiety with this injection. Some discomfort may occur after the numbness wears off.
How do I care for my toe after surgery?
You will be provided a topical antibiotic cream to use for 1-2 weeks which is applied with a band-aid. Gently cleansing of the toe with hydrogen peroxide may be needed. Typically soaking is not required.
What are the risks or side effects?
Risks include infection, prolonged healing, or a small chance the nail could regrow. Some redness or drainage is normal but should improve over time.
Can I walk right after the procedure?
Yes, you can walk immediately, but you should avoid long walks or pressure on the toe for a few days to promote healing.
Is this procedure safe for everyone?
It’s generally safe but may not be suitable for people with certain conditions like poor circulation, diabetes, or allergies to phenol. Phenol cannot be used in pregnancy.
Will my ingrown toenail come back?
The use of phenol significantly reduces the chance of recurrence by about 90-95%
How long does the procedure take?
The surgery usually takes about 15–30 minutes, depending on the severity and whether one or both sides of the nail are treated
What should I expect during recovery?You may have mild pain, swelling, or redness for a few days. The toe typically heals within 2 weeks, but individual results vary.
Will I need to take time off work or school?
Most people can resume normal activities the next day, but you may need to avoid strenuous activities or tight footwear for a week or more.
Will my nail look normal after surgery?
The nail will be slightly more narrow. The appearance varies but is generally acceptable.
How effective is this procedure?
Using phenol for matrixectomy is highly effective, with a low chance (around 5–10%) of the ingrown nail returning in the treated area.
Will I need stitches?
No, as the procedure involves minimal cutting and the phenol helps seal the area. There is no scar.
Is this covered by insurance?
Our clinic is out of network with insurances, which means patients pay directly. Generally we can submit a claim to your insurance as out-of-network. Some patients have out-of-network (OON) benefits through their insurance.
Dr. Andrew Alward DPM
Board-Certified Podiatrist
A native of Illinois, after completing his medical training in Chicago, IL Dr. Alward relocated to Chattanooga, TN with his wife for the love of the outdoors, great hospitality, and community of Chattanooga! He is honored to serve the area!
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Rosalind Franklin University North Chicago, IL
Podiatric Medicine & Surgery Residency Sts Mary & Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago, IL
Board Certified American Board of Podiatric Medicine
Fellow of the American College of Podiatric Medicine
Special Interest & Post-Graduate Education in Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery
New Tread Podiatry PLLC
9 - 4:30 Mon, Tue, Thur
9-12 Fridays.