Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common problem that can be difficult to treat. If you’ve ever dealt with it, you know that it often requires some kind of medical intervention to get rid of it.
Traditional treatments, like topical creams and oral medications, don’t always work, and some can have side effects. That’s why many people are looking for alternative ways to treat toenail fungus.
One promising option is laser treatment. This article will give you a detailed overview of how to remove nail fungus with laser therapy, what to expect, and whether it might be the right choice for you.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can affect anyone. It’s important to understand what it is and how it develops before talking about how to get rid of it.
Defining toenail fungus
Onychomycosis is the medical name for toenail fungus. It’s caused by a fungus that infects your toenail and the skin underneath it (the nail bed).
Fungi thrive in warm, moist places. You can get toenail fungus from:
- communal showers
- nail salons
- injuries to your toe
Symptoms of toenail fungus
If you have a toenail fungus, you might notice:
- thickening of the nail
- yellow or brown discoloration
- nails that are brittle or crumbly
- a distorted nail shape
- a bad smell
How Does Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus Work?
Laser treatments for toenail fungus are becoming more common. How do they work?
The Science Behind Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses focused light energy to target and destroy the fungus that’s infecting your toenail. The heat from the laser damages the fungal cells, preventing them from growing and spreading.
CO2 lasers and YAG lasers are two common types. Technicians may also use different wavelengths, such as 870 nm, 930 nm, and 1320 nm, although other options like Lunula lasers exist as well.
The Laser Treatment Process
First, the technician will clean and prep your toe. Then, they’ll pulse the laser over the infected nail.
The good news is that most people don’t need anesthesia for this procedure.
You’ll probably need about four treatment sessions to get rid of the fungus. Technicians usually space these treatments two to six weeks apart.
Are You a Good Candidate for Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment?
Laser treatment for toenail fungus isn’t for everyone. Generally, it’s most effective for those with mild to moderate infections or for people who haven’t had success with other treatment options.
To know for sure if laser treatment is right for you, you’ll need to talk to a podiatrist or dermatologist. They’ll examine your toenails, assess the severity of the fungal infection, and review your medical history to determine if you’re a good candidate.
Benefits of laser treatment
Laser treatment offers several advantages over other approaches to nail fungus. For example, laser therapy is generally safer than taking oral medications for a fungal infection, with a lower risk of side effects, and can be more effective than options like nail fungus band-aid patches.
Laser treatment is also effective. Studies show that people experience high rates of clinical improvement, with some research showing cure rates as high as 61% after 16 weeks.
Keep in mind that you won’t see results right away. It can take a year or longer for the nail to regrow completely, and you’ll likely need multiple laser treatments to fully get rid of the fungus. But if you’re patient, you may see a big improvement!
Who performs laser toenail treatments, and is it safe?
Provider qualifications
When you’re looking for laser treatment for toenail fungus, it’s important to choose a provider with the right qualifications. Cosmetic dermatologists often have experience with laser treatments.
Look for board-certified dermatologists and check to see if they have specialized training in laser nail fungus treatment.
Before you make an appointment, read testimonials and reviews, and schedule a consultation so you can ask questions.
Safety considerations
Laser treatment is generally considered safe, but it’s still a good idea to ask about hygiene and sterilization practices at the clinic. Make sure they follow strict protocols to prevent infection.
With a qualified provider and proper safety measures, laser treatment can be a safe and effective option for getting rid of toenail fungus.
Risks and side effects
Let’s be real, any procedure comes with risks. With laser nail fungus removal, you may experience a burning sensation or even some bleeding. But don’t freak out! Most people say the side effects are mild and don’t last long.
It’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor about any concerns you might have before you go ahead with the procedure.
Alternative Treatments for Nail Fungus
If lasers aren’t for you, you can also try topical antifungal creams like tioconazole. You can buy these over the counter, and they can help get rid of the fungus. There are also oral antifungal medications, such as Jublia, that you can take, but it’s worth understanding the Jublia cost with insurance before pursuing that treatment.
However, it’s worth noting that these treatments aren’t always as effective as laser treatment. Topical medications only have an improvement rate of around 45%. Oral medications have a slightly better success rate, ranging from 40% to 66%.
What to Expect During and After Laser Treatment
During the procedure
When you get laser treatment for nail fungus, you can expect it to take about half an hour. Typically, there’s no need for anesthesia, since the procedure is not painful.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care
After the procedure, be sure to follow your dermatologist’s instructions precisely.
It’s important to be patient and practice excellent foot hygiene.
It can take months before you see the full effects of the laser treatment. That’s because the laser is designed to kill the fungus, and then you have to wait for a new, healthy nail to grow in. Nails grow slowly, so it takes time to see improvement.
Does insurance cover toenail laser treatment?
Unfortunately, laser treatment for toenail fungus is usually considered cosmetic, so it’s generally not covered by insurance. You can typically expect to pay around $100-$400 per treatment session, so keep that in mind when considering this option.
The Bottom Line
If you’re dealing with nail fungus, laser treatment offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional remedies. Clinical studies have shown that lasers can be very effective in killing the fungus without harming the surrounding tissue.
If you’re considering laser treatment, it’s important to talk with a qualified professional, like a podiatrist or dermatologist. They can evaluate your specific situation and determine if laser treatment is the right option for you. Remember that nail fungus can be stubborn, so patience and proper foot care are essential for successful treatment.