Toenail Reconstruction: Revitalize Your Feet

Do you dread sandal weather because of your toenails?

Cosmetic toenail reconstruction is an emerging part of the world of Cosmetic Podiatry. For many people, the look of their toenails is a problem, especially in summer, for holidays and the two days of sun we get here in the UK each year!

Your feet are in the firing line for damage (how many times have we knocked our toenails on furniture, or lost a nail after a long walk or run?). They can also be prone to problems caused by underlying medical issues like psoriasis or fungal infections.

With toenail reconstruction, we have a cosmetic fix to rebuild damaged and discoloured nails. It’s not a medical cure, it won’t get rid of any fungal infections for example. But it can improve the appearance of your nails in the short term. It’s a perfect solution for holidays, special events like weddings, spa trips, days at the races, where your choice of footwear might mean putting your nails on display. The reconstructions last about 6 weeks until they can become loose and the nail beneath starts to grow.

What is Toenail Reconstruction? 

Toenail reconstruction involves rebuilding damaged toenails using a UV gel system. These toenail reconstruction gels offer a temporary cosmetic fix for unsightly or damaged nails.

In our clinic, we use the Wilde Pedique system, which is specifically designed for toenails. It is more elastic than the gels used for building fingernails, to allow for the movement and wear and tear that your feet go through daily.

The Wilde Pedique UV gel system allows nails to be reshaped, discolouration to be masked and damaged and deformed nails to be reconstructed.

Can anyone have a toenail reconstruction?

Ideally, you need to have a small amount of nail there to attach a reconstruction to. The less existing nail there is to anchor it to, the shorter time any reconstruction will last. The nail is reconstructed with a light-cured acrylester resin. It’s different to a finger nail acrylic, as it has different flexibility and is designed specifically for toes.

How long does Toenail Reconstruction last?

Once applied, it is recommended that the reconstruction is removed, and replaced, if necessary, every 6-8 weeks. This allows for checking of the natural nail beneath as it grows underneath the reconstruction.

Can you still apply nail varnish? 

Yes! After 24 hours, normal or gel polishes can be applied over the reconstruction.

Case Studies - Toenail reconstruction before and after

Case study 1 

This was a recent reconstruction we have carried out. It was quite a simple one, but for a very special occasion – our patient was going on honeymoon and wanted her nails to look as great as they could for the beach. We performed a big toenail reconstruction to ensure it matched the length and shape of the other foot and disguised the damaged portion, ready for nail polish application.

Case Study 2 

Cosmetic nail reconstruction can be great as a temporary cover-up for unsightly fungal nails. In this case we were covering up the nail for a holiday. Fungal nail reconstruction" is not a cure for fungal nails, but in the short term, it can significantly improve their appearance, making it perfect for holidays and special occasions.

We love doing the reconstructions, because they can make such a huge difference to the appearance of your feet, which is a big deal for many people.
If you have any questions about the reconstructions, or to find out if they would be suitable for you, then contact us and we will be happy to advise.