Septimia
This might sound odd, but I wonder if consulting a chiropodist might be worthwhile. You'd have to give a full and careful explanation because, obviously, they normally deal with feet not hands! However, they do often have to treat problems with nails so might have more idea of what to do.
That's what I was going to say. Be aware there are three different levels of footcare people - the foot beautician level, the chiropodist level and the podiatrist level. The podiatrist level is the highest level.
So maybe a level 2 person - ie chiropodist - might be able to sort this out. To be on the safe side I'd personally choose a level 3 person (ie a podiatrist).
The set-up is very confused these days - with some podiatrists refusing to treat a patient for "nail surgery" unless they (the podiatrist) has someone with them and others still okay about being on their own and not expecting a "chaperone for themselves" with them.
I've been doing the rounds a bit recently myself and nail removal does count as "nail surgery" and some podiatrists do this "demand a chaperone for themselves" person in the room. I think that's what is going on - I find it very confusing...as they never used to and don't need one.
I have just had a big toenail removed by a podiatrist (they ain't cheap - it will be around £250-£300 for a nail) and, having learnt about the "wimp ones that demand a chaperone" I made sure I went to one that we both accept the "old-fashioned way" of it's just him doing the job and me having the job done. So that nail is now off and I'm re-dressing it daily and it cost me £300 (which I thought was worth it - as he's the best one I've found here and doesn't do the 'chaperone is necessary' malarkey). From what I've seen of him = he would do a fingernail if the customer explained that was what she wanted from him.