For the first time in 20 years I am going to see a Doctor about my condition (I'm now 30 yrs old). When I was a child I developed dry flaky skin under both heels and most of my toenails fell off and never regrew. I only have 4 toenails left. Two of which are normal, the other two are of normal colour but an irregular shape. Specialists at the time didn't know how to help me. So I have spent most of my life in constant fear that others will see my feet - they are so ugly. My anxiety and embarrassment has prevented me from living a normal life and I am..... tired.

I have spent the last 3 days surfing the net and have found only one helpful site. A Dr (in America) is in the process of pre-trialing toenail implants. I ache for the trial to be successful.

I live in New Zealand (NZ) and we are not the medical capital of the world. I worry that even after all these years the Dr's here still wont be able to help me. While I wait for the outcome of the implant trials in the states, I hope that at the very least, I will be able to find a Dr here that can clear up the flaking skin on my heels - which sometimes itches.

Should I see my own general practicioner first? Or should I skip the GP and find a podiatrist? Have you ever heard of a condition like mine? Do you know of any procedure similar to toenail implants? Do you have any advice?

Most people would give anything to win the lottory, travel, have a successful career etc.. I would give anything to walk barefoot on a crowded beach.

Maybe you should see a Pod. Do you think you have some type of infection? Is your skin on your heel very dry?

I have the same issue about feeling anxiety and embarassed I had one toenail on my right big toe removed completley due to chronic ingrowns and infection and one on my left big toe partially removed. I put fake nails on in the summer when it comes time to wear sandals which I dread, but they don't stay on long at all and it's a hassel I wish there was a procedure now that would fix this problem. I have spent the last few months doing research here and there but no such luck other thatn the fact that a Dr. Robert Brodkin in Texas is in the process of designing a surgery for an artificial nail replacement. If you find anything new let me know and vice a versa.