Does nail surgery treat nail separation?

Nail separation, also called onycholysis, occurs when the nail plate lifts away from the skin beneath it. The detached portion cannot be reattached by an operation; it generally has to grow forward and be trimmed away. Common triggers include repeated trauma, tight footwear, irritation from chemicals or water, skin conditions, and infection. Surgery may have a limited role when a loose or damaged nail is catching, when a growth needs removal, or when a clinician needs tissue to clarify the diagnosis. The appropriate treatment depends on what is keeping the nail lifted.

Keep the nail short by trimming only the free edge, and do not pull off attached nail. Protect the fingertip or toe from knocks, keep it clean and dry, and use gloves for wet or chemical work. Choose footwear with enough space around the toes. Arrange an examination if the separation persists, spreads, or affects several nails, because treating an infection or skin condition may be more useful than removing the nail.

Seek prompt care if the lifted area is painful, foul-smelling, green or darkening, or surrounded by redness and swelling. Bleeding, pus, fever, or a new lump needs timely assessment. A sudden change in one nail without a clear injury should also be examined, especially if the colour change continues as the nail grows.

Ask what may have caused the separation, whether a sample is needed, and whether the nail should be left in place. Clarify safe trimming, protection during regrowth, and which changes mean the treatment plan should be reviewed.