Final answer:
It takes about 6 to 12 months for a replacement toenail to fully grow out after it is lost through injury. The process involves stages such as hemostasis, inflammation, growth, and remodeling. Good nail hygiene and protection of the injured area are important during this regrowth process.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a toenail is lost through injury, it takes about 6 months to 12 months for a replacement nail to fully grow out.
The growth of a new toenail is a process that involves several steps:
- Hemostasis: Immediately after the nail loss, the body begins the process of stopping bleeding and initiating wound healing.
- Inflammation: This stage involves the release of inflammatory cells and the removal of damaged tissue to prepare for regeneration.
- Growth: During this stage, new cells in the nail matrix begin to produce the components of a new toenail.
- Remodeling: The new nail gradually replaces the damaged tissue and matures over time.
Throughout this process, it's important to maintain good nail hygiene and protect the injured area to aid in the regrowth of the toenail.