Expert diagnosis and treatment of nail deformities, infections, and trauma by Dr. Ali Soueid, specialist plastic and hand surgeon across Qatar, Dubai, London, and Beirut.
Dr Ali Soueid is a UK Certified & Trained Plastic Surgeon
We only use the best safest techniques and best material on the market
We use evidence based practices to improve outcomes.
Nail problems can affect the appearance, structure, or health of the fingernails or toenails. While some are cosmetic, others indicate underlying medical or surgical issues.
Common conditions include:
Ingrown toenails
Fungal infections (onychomycosis)
Nail trauma or detachment
Nail ridges, pitting, or deformities
Paronychia (nail fold infection)
Tumours (glomus tumour, melanoma under nail)
Nail changes due to systemic diseases
| Condition | Description | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Ingrown Nail | Nail grows into the skin, causing pain/infection | Conservative care or nail avulsion |
| Fungal Nail | Yellow, thickened, brittle nail | Topical or oral antifungals |
| Paronychia | Infection of the nail fold | Drainage, antibiotics |
| Nail Trauma | Crushed or lifted nail | Repair, nail bed reconstruction |
| Tumour (e.g. glomus) | Painful, under-nail mass | Surgical excision |
| Clubbing | Enlarged curved nails | Often related to lung or heart disease |
Trauma (crush injuries, nail biting)
Infection (fungal, bacterial)
Poor footwear or pedicure habits
Autoimmune conditions (psoriasis, lichen planus)
Tumours or cysts
Systemic diseases (thyroid, anaemia, lung disease)
Persistent pain or swelling
Discolouration (black, brown, yellow)
Nail lifting off the bed
Bleeding under the nail
Sudden changes in shape or thickness
Types of
If you've had multiple episodes of: Ingrown toenails that do not respond to conservative care. Chronic paronychia (nail fold infection) despite antibiotics or home remedies. Fungal nail infections that haven’t improved with medications. …you may benefit from procedures such as partial nail removal, nail fold reconstruction, or biopsy to rule out underlying causes.
You may be a candidate if you’ve experienced: Nail crushing or detachment due to direct trauma Split, ridged, or non-growing nails following injury. Nail bed lacerations that were not properly repaired. In these cases, surgery may involve nail bed repair, removal of scar tissue, or matrix reshaping to restore nail growth and appearance.
Surgical assessment is advised if you notice: Painful masses under the nail (e.g. glomus tumour). Brown or black discolouration not linked to trauma. Rapid changes in nail shape or thickness, especially on one finger or toe. A biopsy or excision is often required to confirm the diagnosis and rule out serious conditions like subungual melanoma.
Not all nail problems require surgery, but certain conditions may benefit from specialist surgical intervention. You may be a candidate if your nail issue is persistent, painful, or interfering with daily life. Here’s what we evaluate:
Finger Examination
Medical History
Expectations
What are the
Reduces pressure, throbbing, or tenderness caused by ingrown nails, infections, or tumours. Allows you to walk, write, or work without constant irritation.
Prevents progression to deep tissue infections, abscesses, or cellulitis. Reduces the risk of permanent nail deformity or loss. Early removal of suspicious lesions helps detect serious conditions like melanoma.
Improves cosmetic appearance by treating thickened, yellowed, or damaged nails. Reconstructive surgery can restore a smooth, natural-looking nail plate.
A Consultation helps you give your desires to us and helps us take a thorough history, do an examination and order investigations.
The day of the procedure is a big day for the patient and we take every measure to make sure your are comfortable and safe.
We will support in this essential part of your journey to make it as smooth as possible.
Follow these instruction to prepare for your procedure and to have a smooth post-operative recovery.
Before surgery, Dr. Ali Soueid will assess the affected nail and surrounding tissues. You may be asked to: Stop certain medications, such as blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin) if medically safe. Trim the nail gently, but do not attempt to cut it yourself if infected or ingrown. Clean the area with mild soap and water. Inform the clinic if you have: Diabetes or poor wound healing. History of keloid or abnormal scarring. Allergies to anaesthetic or antiseptics. For complex cases (e.g. tumours), you may need: Blood tests, Imaging (ultrasound or MRI), Pre-op consent discussion and paperwork.
To reduce the risk of complications: Do not apply nail polish or artificial nails in the week before surgery. Avoid pedicures or manicures at salons, especially if the nail is infected. Do not shave or apply creams to the affected area the day of the procedure. Avoid smoking 24–48 hours before and after, as it impairs healing.
Most nail surgeries are minor and performed under local anaesthetic as a day case. After the procedure: Keep the dressing dry for 24–48 hours. Elevate the hand or foot to reduce swelling. Use simple painkillers (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen) as advised. Return for dressing change or suture removal if required. Watch for signs of infection: redness, pus, increased pain or warmth. You may also be given: Topical or oral antibiotics (for infected nails). Instructions on when the nail will grow back – typically 6–12 months for full regrowth. Most patients return to work and light activity within a few days, depending on the procedure.
Problem:
Nail edge grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and infection.
Surgical Treatment:
Partial Nail Avulsion: Only the ingrown portion of the nail is removed
Matrixectomy (chemical or surgical): Destroys part of the nail root to prevent recurrence
Performed under local anaesthesia as a quick day procedure
Problem:
Crushed or split nail bed from direct injury (e.g. door slam, sports trauma), often with bleeding under the nail.
Surgical Treatment:
Evacuation of subungual haematoma
Nail removal followed by delicate repair of the nail bed using fine absorbable sutures
Temporary nail substitute may be used to protect the nail bed as it heals
Problem:
Painful or pigmented growth under or around the nail. May be benign or malignant.
Surgical Treatment:
Nail removal to access the tumour
Complete excision or biopsy of the lesion
Histological analysis to confirm diagnosis
Further surgery if needed for tumour clearance (especially melanoma)
What to expect
Knowing what to expect before, during, and after your nail procedure can help reduce anxiety and ensure a smooth recovery. At Dr. Ali Soueid’s clinics in Qatar, Dubai, London, and Beirut, nail surgery is performed with precision, comfort, and long-term results in mind.
Initial consultation to assess the nail condition and discuss treatment options
Explanation of the procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes
Most surgeries are done under local anaesthetic — no need for hospital admission
You’ll be advised on how to prepare (see Pre-Op section), including any medication adjustments
The procedure typically takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on complexity
Local anaesthetic is injected at the base of the finger or toe
You may feel pressure but no pain
The nail or part of it is carefully removed, repaired, or biopsied
A sterile dressing is applied, and you can go home shortly after
Mild discomfort or throbbing is common for the first 24–48 hours
You’ll be given instructions for wound care, pain relief, and follow-up
Dressing should remain dry for 1–2 days
Most patients return to work or light activities within a few days
Full nail regrowth (if applicable) may take 6–12 months
You’ll have a follow-up appointment to monitor healing and review results (especially if a biopsy was taken)
We Use
Aesthetics You Trust is our motto. We will treat you with respect always and provide you with the best care we can.
The first rule of medical ethics is to never knowingly do something to a patient that could harm them.
We only offer treatments that are backed by evidence and based on our experience. We do not follow trends.
We continuously educate ourselves, attend conferences and courses to stay up to date and use the best products.
No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Some mild discomfort or throbbing may occur after the anaesthetic wears off, but this is usually well-controlled with simple painkillers.
It depends on whether the entire nail or only a part of it was removed.
Fingernails: regrow in 4–6 months
Toenails: may take 9–12 months
In some cases (e.g. matrixectomy), the nail may not regrow at all — this is planned and discussed in advance.
Yes. Many patients experience pain at the base of the affected finger or thumb, especially during gripping or hand use. The discomfort may radiate to the palm or worsen with pressure.
Some procedures require fine absorbable sutures, especially for nail bed repair or tumour excision. Others, like partial nail removal, often heal well without stitches.
There is a small chance of recurrence, especially with ingrown nails. However, techniques like matrixectomy significantly reduce this risk. Surgical removal of tumours or abnormal tissue also lowers recurrence compared to conservative treatment.
You’ll receive full instructions, but generally:
Keep the area clean and dry
Change dressings as advised
Avoid trauma or pressure during healing
Watch for signs of infection
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure proper healing.
Yes. Changes in the nail — such as pigmentation, rapid thickening, or deformation — can sometimes indicate tumours, autoimmune diseases, or systemic illnesses. Dr. Soueid may recommend a biopsy or further testing if there are any concerns.
Yes. Dr. Ali Soueid offers expert nail problem assessment and surgery in all four locations. You can book a consultation in Qatar, Dubai, London, or Beirut depending on your convenience.
Yes. Many nail issues respond well to non-surgical treatments such as antifungal medications, antibiotics, warm soaks, or changes in footwear. Surgery is typically reserved for persistent, painful, or structurally damaged nails that do not improve with conservative care.
Yes, but it requires specialised care. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation are more prone to slow healing and infections. Dr. Soueid will assess your overall health and may coordinate with your GP or endocrinologist to ensure safe and effective treatment. Nail surgery can still be performed safely with the right precautions. a quick recovery or long-term relief, a tailored treatment plan will be offered to suit your needs.
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