Learn about Subungual Hematoma Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Subungual Hematoma and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Subungual Hematoma

A subungual hematoma is a collection of blood under a fingernail or toenail, often caused by trauma like a crush injury or stubbing. When performed by a dermatologist, the primary procedure to treat this condition is called trephination. This involves creating a small hole in the nail plate to drain the trapped blood, which provides immediate relief from the intense pressure and throbbing pain. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically performed in the dermatologist's office using a sterile needle, electrocautery device, or a specialized heated wire. It is a highly effective method to prevent permanent nail damage and alleviate discomfort, allowing the underlying nail bed to heal properly as the nail grows out over time.

Key Highlights

    Provides immediate relief from pressure and pain.Minimally invasive, in-office procedure with no stitches required.Helps prevent permanent nail deformity or loss.Quick procedure, often completed in just a few minutes.Low risk of complications when performed by a specialist.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Significant pain and throbbing under the nail due to blood accumulation.
  • A visible, dark red or black discoloration covering more than 25-50% of the nail.
  • Recent trauma to the finger or toe (e.g., crush injury, heavy object drop).
  • Suspicion of an underlying nail bed laceration that may require further evaluation.
  • Prevention of secondary infection or permanent nail dystrophy.

How to prepare

  • The dermatologist will visually examine the nail and may use a light to transilluminate it.
  • The affected finger or toe will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution like iodine or alcohol.
  • Local anesthesia (a numbing injection) is often not required but may be offered for sensitive patients.
  • No special fasting or medication adjustments are typically needed for this minor procedure.

Risks & possible complications

  • Minor pain or discomfort during the procedure.
  • Small risk of infection at the trephination site.
  • Potential for temporary or permanent nail plate deformity as it grows out.
  • Rare recurrence if bleeding continues.
  • Incomplete drainage if the hematoma is old and clotted.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Pain relief is usually immediate after drainage.
  • Keep the area clean and dry; a bandage may be applied for a day.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can manage any residual soreness.
  • Monitor for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, fever).
  • The nail will grow out over several months, and the discolored portion will gradually move forward and be trimmed away.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient procedure)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-2 days for pain resolution; 6-9 months for complete nail regrowth

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering subungual hematoma in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for subungual hematoma compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 9 – USD 33 0 days (outpatient procedure) ~ 1-2 days for pain resolution; 6-9 months for complete nail regrowth Know More
Turkey USD 66 – USD 246 0 days (outpatient procedure) ~ 1-2 days for pain resolution; 6-9 months for complete nail regrowth Know More

Top hospitals for Subungual Hematoma in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated dermatology teams and experience managing patients undergoing subungual hematoma.

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Manipal Hospital Jaipur

  • IconJaipur, India
  • Icon55 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Ananya Kumar, a 28-year-old software engineer...

Ananya Kumar, a 28-year-old software engineer and avid hiker, dropped a heavy dumbbell on her right big toe during a home workout two days ago. The immediate, intense pain was followed by rapid discoloration. Now, her toenail is a deep, purplish-black, and the throbbing is constant, making it impossible to wear her closed-toe work shoes. She's worried it's broken and anxious about an upcoming hiking trip. The dermatologist, Dr. Lee, explains it's a classic subungual hematoma, a traumatic blood blister under the nail. Given the size (covering >50% of the nail) and significant pain, she recommends immediate trephination (drainage) to relieve the pressure. Ananya is nervous but agrees. After a quick topical anesthetic, Dr. Lee uses a sterile heated needle to painlessly create a small hole in the nail. Dark blood immediately wells up, and the pressure relief is instantaneous. Ananya is amazed at how quickly the severe pain vanishes. She keeps the area clean and covered for a few days. The discoloration fades over weeks as the nail grows out. Emotionally, she shifted from anxiety about a serious injury and ruined plans to immense relief and gratitude for such a simple, fast solution. She felt heard and was back in her hiking boots in no time.

Dermatologists for Subungual Hematoma

Explore experienced dermatologists who regularly perform subungual hematoma and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Somnath Das
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1200
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospitals Broadway, Kolkata

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Dr. Shantini Vijayasuriar
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Arti Sarda
  • 16 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata

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Dr. Chanchal Bhar
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata

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Dr. Simantini R. Sakhardande
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Goa , Panaji

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Dr. K R Sharmatha
  • Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Consult Charge ₹ 800

MediFyr Plus SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai

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Dr. Piyali Chatterjee
  • 18 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salt Lake, Kolkata

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Dr. Jayanta Kumar Barua
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata

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Dr. Jaidev Yadav NC
  • 19 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Millers Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Sai Lahari Rachumallu
  • 3 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

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Dr. Souvik Sardar
  • 13 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata

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Dr. Vijender Kumar Saini
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1500
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Jaipur, Jaipur

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Dr. Chandrashekhar C. R.
  • 40 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 2000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Goa , Panaji

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Dr. Jaidev Yadav
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore

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Dr. Shouvik Ghosh
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

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Dr. Ritika Shanmugam
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore

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Dr. Sharanya Padma
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Dermatologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 800
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore

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