At H & D both our podiatrists are very experienced in nail surgery procedures.
The most common operation performed for ingrown toe nails, involves the removal of wedges from the side of the nail under local anaesthetic. Phenol is then applied so that the nail is permanently narrowed. This operation leaves no scar (in the absence of complications which are rare) and a perfectly normal looking nail.
This procedure is often covered by medical insurance so check with your provider.