How long does nail surgery take to work for melanonychia?

Melanonychia is a brown or black band or area of nail pigmentation. Surgery may involve sampling or removing nail tissue so a dermatologist can examine the relevant area. The procedure does not instantly replace the discoloured nail. Tenderness, swelling, or a dressing can affect the early appearance, while healthy nail growth gradually moves changes toward the tip.

The time needed depends on which nail is involved, how much tissue was treated, and whether the pigment comes from the nail plate, nail bed, or nearby skin. A dark band can have harmless causes, but a new or changing band deserves assessment rather than self-treatment.

Follow the dressing and wound-care instructions from your clinician. Keep the area protected, avoid picking at a scab, and limit pressure or friction while it is sore. Do not apply nail polish or cosmetic products until the treated area has been cleared. Attend any planned review so the wound and, when applicable, the tissue result can be discussed.

Contact the treating clinic if pain is worsening instead of settling, redness is spreading, drainage develops, or the dressing becomes soaked. Seek prompt assessment for fever, marked swelling, loss of feeling, or a finger or toe that becomes unusually pale or blue. Arrange review if pigmentation extends into surrounding skin or the band changes after the procedure.

Ask which part of the nail will be treated, when the dressing can be changed, what finding would count as normal healing, and when you should expect the tissue result. You can also ask how nail regrowth will be monitored and whether the pigment requires follow-up after healing.