Had ingrown toenail surgery, on side of surgery there is chalky white skin. What is it; how do I treat it?

I had a part of my toenail removed and the doctor used phenol to kill the matrix to prevent growth and possibly future ingrown toenail infections etc. I have been putting excessive antibiotic ointment on the exposed flesh, as well as around it as my doctor ordered. I am not sure if the chalky white skin is cause for alarm, but it seems very odd to me. I have been using my feet sooner than my doctor intended, as I could not miss the UGA game the day after surgery. But I don't see how physical exertion could cause the skin to turn chalky white. It is very limited in area, and is on the side of the toe the surgery occurred on. I've been researching for some time with little to no results. Anybody able to shed some light on this?

Had ingrown toenail surgery, on side of surgery there is chalky white skin. What is it; how do I treat it?
i don't think it's all bad....unless it's hurting you or something. make sure you go low on the "excessive oinment". If it's moist or something let it dry/leave it uncovered...but if it's hurting, you should go to your dr.
Reply:I've been through that procedure several times and ended up having the toenail completely removed, so I know just what you're talking about.





Don't worry, the phenol may have killed part of the skin there or it's white and shrivelly because it hasn't been allowed to breathe since it's bathed in antibiotics. Fret not, it will mend and come back.
Reply:I too had this surgery today.I have to say it the lidocaine was killer. The skin around it can be from the phenol they rubbed on it. I have taken my bandage of to look at it yet but I'm sure I have it too. Just take your happy pills and lay down and all should be well. Soak it in betadine and water. The doctor told me to make sure the water is a dark yellow color. Good luck!