Reconstruction and Over Grown toenail

Toenail reconstruction is a cosmetic as well as medical procedure. Toenail reconstruction is performed by a podiatrist using a specialist gel that is layered either directly onto the nail bed if no nail is present (due to trauma or surgery) so that a brand new nail is created, or, on top of unsightly or misshapen nails so that the nail is more aesthetically pleasing. Toenail reconstruction is a very similar process to gel nails in the way that a gel is layered and then hardened using a UV light. Toenail reconstruction however is very different, and this is where the similarities end. Toenail Reconstruction is different to gel nails carried out by beauticians in salons for the following reasons: 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 is very important as the nail will then last longer and will not 'lift' The gel used has antifungal properties; meaning that any nails which have a fungal infection will be treated whilst wearing the nail Nail reconstruction is performed by a university trained podiatrist The gel we use is suitable for those who have no nail available and diabetics The nail that is reconstructed will not damage the natural nail or restrict growth, this means that the natural nail is able to grow un affected