Ingrown Toenail Clinic Singapore
Dr Nieh - Foot Doctor specialising in ingrown toenail removal
Qualifications
MBBS (Singapore)
Master of Public Health (Epidemiology) (Singapore)
Master of Medicine (Surgery) (Singapore)
MRCS (Ireland) – Member of Royal College of Surgeons
Graduate Diploma of Family Medicine (Singapore)
ECFMG Certified
Advanced Trauma Life Support Provider
Advanced Cardiac Life Support Instructor
Professional Affiliations
Singapore Medical Council (SMC)
Member, Royal College of Surgeons (Ireland)
Professional Background
Dr. Nieh’s medical journey began with an MBBS from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, followed by advanced postgraduate training in public health, surgery, and family medicine. He has served as Senior Resident in Cardiothoracic Surgery at National University Hospital, and as a General Practitioner at leading healthcare groups including Raffles Medical Group, Fullerton Healthcare, and Parkway Pantai Hospitals.
As CEO and founder of Alpaca Health, Dr. Nieh specializes in the management and surgical treatment of ingrown toenails and complex nail disorders, earning recognition as the “Toe Nail King” among his peers and patients.
He has contributed to clinical education as a lecturer and tutor at the National University of Singapore and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (NTU), and has held examiner and curriculum roles in medical training.
Dr. Nieh’s clinical expertise is complemented by active involvement in medical research, with numerous peer-reviewed publications and presentations in both local and international forums. He is also dedicated to community service, volunteering as a doctor at Red Cross Home and Tzu Chi Free Clinic, and participating in grassroots health initiatives.
Areas of Expertise
- Ingrown toenail and nail surgery
- General and family medicine
- Cardiothoracic and vascular surgery
- Medical education and training
- Public health and epidemiology
Languages
English
Mandarin
Japanese (JLPT Level 2)
Safinah Kalifulla, Podiatrist
BSc Podiatry
Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition in Singapore, typically affecting the big toe when the nail edge grows into the surrounding skin, causing discomfort, swelling, and sometimes infection. Contributing factors include improper nail trimming, tight or ill-fitting footwear, trauma, fungal infections, and genetic predisposition. Early symptoms can range from tenderness and redness to swelling and pus, and if left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications, especially in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation. Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination by a podiatrist or orthopaedic specialist, who will assess the severity and recommend a tailored treatment plan.Choosing the right ingrown toenail specialist in Singapore can make all the difference in your recovery and long-term foot health. Our podiatrist is highly skilled in ingrown toenail removal and nail surgery, ensuring that each patient receives expert attention and optimal outcomes. We provide a full range of services, from initial assessment and ingrown toenail removal in Singapore to post-operative care and prevention strategies. If you are experiencing pain, redness, or swelling, it is crucial to consult an ingrown toenail doctor in Singapore early to prevent complications and infections. Our clinic is conveniently located in Novena, making it easy for patients across Singapore to access top-quality ingrown toenail treatment. Trust Alpaca Health for professional, compassionate care from a leading ingrown toenail specialist and podiatrist in Singapore. Book your appointment today and for the best in podiatric ingrown toenail removal and foot care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I need professional treatment?
If you have persistent pain, swelling, pus, or if home remedies are not working, see a podiatrist promptly.
Is ingrown toenail surgery painful?
Procedures are performed under local anaesthesia for your comfort. Most patients experience immediate relief and minimal downtime.
Will my ingrown toenail come back?
With proper podiatry care and, if needed, matrix ablation, recurrence rates are very low.
Can I claim insurance or Medisave?
Some procedures may be Medisave-claimable. Contact our 24/7 podiatry clinic in Singapore for details.
Detailed FAQ
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, nail trauma, genetic predisposition, and fungal infections. This condition is especially prevalent in Singapore due to our climate and footwear habits
Pain or tenderness along the nail edge
Redness and swelling of the toe
Pus or yellowish discharge (if infected)
Difficulty wearing shoes or walking
Formation of extra tissue (granuloma) in severe cases
Seek professional help if you experience:
Persistent pain and swelling
Signs of infection (pus, warmth, fever)
Recurring ingrown toenails
Difficulty walking or performing daily activities
You have diabetes or poor circulation (higher risk of complications)
Conservative treatments: Soaking, proper nail trimming, cotton packing, nail bracing
Medical management: Antibiotics for infection (if prescribed)
Surgical procedures: Partial nail avulsion, wedge resection, total nail avulsion, chemical matrixectomy (phenolisation) for permanent solutions
Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the toe
The ingrown section of the nail is removed (partial nail avulsion)
Chemical matrixectomy (phenolisation) may be used to prevent regrowth
The procedure is minimally invasive, usually completed in 30 minutes, and allows for quick recovery
GP/Polyclinic: $150–$300 for basic removal
Podiatry clinics: $800–$1,500 for surgical procedures (partial nail avulsion with phenolisation)
Public hospitals: $343–$1,029 (subsidised day surgery)
Prices vary by clinic, severity, and procedure type. Some treatments may be Medisave-claimable.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so pain is minimal during surgery
Mild discomfort may occur after the anaesthesia wears off
Recovery takes 2–4 weeks for most, with dressing changes and follow-ups recommended
Most patients return to normal activities quickly
For mild, non-infected cases: soak feet in warm water, keep toes clean and dry, trim nails straight across
Do not attempt to dig out or cut the nail yourself if there is severe pain, swelling, or infection
Home remedies are not recommended for diabetics or those with poor circulation—see a doctor or podiatrist promptly.
Some of the well-known ingrown toenail doctors, clinics and podiatrists in Singapore are: Alpaca Health, Dr Nieh Chih Chiang an expert ingrown toenail removal doctor, Safinah Kalifulla an experienced Podiatrist, Dr Foot Podiatry Clinic, Straits Podiatry, East Coast Podiatry, Physio & Sole Clinic, My FootDr Singapore, The Foot Practice, Zenith Medical Clinic, TOPS Clinic (The Orthopaedic Practice and Surgery Clinic), Advanced Orthopaedics (Dr Poh Seng Yew), The Orthopaedic Clinic, Healthway Medical, Dr Poh Seng Yew (Advanced Orthopaedics), The Skin Doctors (The Skin Drs), Feet First Podiatry Clinic, Epi Dermatology, Spire Orthopaedic Group, Orthopaedics International, Atlas Podiatry, UFIT Clinic.
Trim nails straight across, not rounded
Avoid cutting nails too short or digging into corners
Wear well-fitted, breathable shoes with enough toe space
Maintain good foot hygiene and avoid trauma to the toes
Seek early treatment for any nail or foot problems
Podiatrists and foot doctors use sterile, precise techniques to minimize pain and recurrence
They offer advanced options like nail bracing and permanent solutions for chronic cases
Specialist care reduces risk of complications, especially for children, seniors, diabetics, and athletes
Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA)
Removal of the ingrown portion of the nail, often combined with phenolisation (chemical treatment) to prevent recurrence.
Total Nail Avulsion (TNA)
Complete removal of the nail in severe or recurrent cases.
Post-Surgical Care
Includes dressing changes, monitoring for infection, and follow-up visits.
Contact Our Clinic Today
Clinic Address:
Alpaca Health – Ingrown Toenail Clinic Singapore
10 Sinaran Drive
Novena Medical Centre Square 2
#11-20/21, Level 11
Singapore 307506
Phone: +65 8089 1839
Why See an Alpaca Health Podiatrist?
Our 24 hour podiatrists use minimally invasive techniques that preserve the healthy nail and tissue, ensuring faster recovery and lower recurrence rates compared to general surgical removal. We also provide post-treatment care and education to keep your feet healthy.