I had my left big toe done over 15 years ago. It didn't really hurt until the numbing meds wore off. Then it throbbed so bad. It bled for a while as well. The best advice is keep the toe elevated for hours when is starts to throb. I had this procedure done because of chronic ingrown toenail. Even though it was painful for a weekend, and sore until it healed, I had no more ingrown toenails after that. It was and still is great!