Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that affects about 10% of Americans. It can cause your nails to thicken, discolor, and even crumble. If you’ve ever dealt with it, you know it’s not just unsightly; it can be painful and persistent.
Over-the-counter treatments often don’t cut it, and prescription oral medications, while sometimes effective, can come with unwanted side effects. That’s where laser therapy comes in. It’s emerged as a promising alternative for treating toenail fungus, offering a potentially more effective and less risky approach.
This article provides a comprehensive look at laser treatment for toenail fungus. We’ll explore how it works, how well it works, what it costs, and what you can expect when you visit a podiatrist for laser nail fungus treatment.
What is toenail fungus, and why treat it?
Defining onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is the medical term for a toenail infection caused by fungi. If you have it, your toenails may be:
- Thickened
- Discolored
- Brittle
- Distorted
Reasons to seek treatment
You should treat toenail fungus because, left untreated, it can cause you pain and discomfort. The infection may also spread to other nails or skin. Plus, unsightly nails can affect your self-esteem.
How does laser therapy work to treat toenail fungus?
If you’re seeking treatment for toenail fungus, your podiatrist may discuss laser therapy as an option.
The science behind laser treatment
Laser therapy, including blue light nail fungus lasers, uses a specific wavelength of light to vaporize the fungus. The goal is to destroy the fungus while doing as little damage as possible to the surrounding tissue.
One type of laser commonly used is the PinPointe FootLaser. This patented treatment targets only the infected tissue, leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
What are the advantages of laser therapy?
The best part is that laser therapy is non-invasive, so there are no incisions or excisions.
Also, laser therapy avoids the need for oral medications that can sometimes have side effects. For example, some oral medications for toenail fungus can cause liver damage.
What to expect during laser therapy
If you and your podiatrist decide that laser therapy is right for you, here’s what you can expect.
Before your appointment
Be sure to remove all nail polish and decorations the day before your treatment.
During your appointment
A typical laser treatment session takes less than 30 minutes, so you can easily schedule it during a lunch break or on your way home from work.
You don’t have to worry about any pain because the procedure is safe, quick, and requires no anesthesia.
After your appointment
You can get right back to your usual activities after your laser therapy. There’s no recovery time needed.
It takes 6 to 12 months for a new nail to grow back, so you’ll have to be patient.
Depending on the severity of your nail fungus, your podiatrist may recommend one to four treatments.
How effective is laser therapy compared to other treatments?
Laser therapy vs. topical treatments
If you’ve ever had nail fungus, you’ve probably already tried over-the-counter topical treatments, like clotrimazole lotion. Unfortunately, these treatments are often ineffective because they can’t penetrate the nail to reach the infection.
Laser therapy vs. oral medications
Prescription oral antifungal medications are more effective than topical treatments, but they don’t always work. Also, oral medications can have side effects, including liver damage.
Clinical studies show that laser therapy is successful in over 88% of cases. With laser therapy, there are typically no side effects, and the procedure is quick and painless.
Risk of reinfection
Keep in mind that reinfection is possible with all treatment methods. Preventing nail fungus requires good hygiene and nail care, including exploring natural remedies like eucalyptus oil.
Cost and insurance coverage for laser therapy
Before you book a laser treatment, you’ll want to know how much it costs and whether your insurance will help pay for it.
Cost of laser treatment
Laser therapy typically costs between $750 and $1,500 per treatment. However, the exact amount depends on a few things, including the podiatrist you choose and the type of laser they use.
Insurance coverage
Unfortunately, laser therapy is usually considered an aesthetic procedure, which means it is typically not covered by health insurance.
Medicare and many health insurance plans don’t pay for aesthetic procedures. It’s best to check with your insurance company to be sure.
Payment options
Even if your insurance won’t cover laser treatment, you still have options. Many podiatrists accept credit cards and cash payments. Talk to your podiatrist’s office to see what options are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Absolutely not! You should never attempt to remove a toenail yourself, even if it’s infected with fungus. This can lead to serious complications like infection, bleeding, and improper nail regrowth. Always consult a podiatrist for safe and effective treatment options.
How many laser sessions are needed for nail fungus?
The number of laser sessions needed varies depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors. Typically, patients require between 3 to 6 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Your podiatrist will assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan.
Does Medicare cover toenail fungus removal?
Unfortunately, Medicare typically doesn’t cover routine toenail fungus removal, especially if it’s considered cosmetic. However, coverage might be available if the infection poses a significant threat to your overall health, such as in cases of diabetes or compromised immune systems. Check with your Medicare provider for specifics.
Does toenail fungus come back after laser treatment?
While laser treatment is highly effective, there’s a chance toenail fungus can recur. Maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding shared public spaces like showers and pools can help prevent reinfection. Regular follow-up appointments with your podiatrist are also crucial.
How much does it cost to have laser treatment for toenail fungus?
The cost of laser treatment for toenail fungus can vary widely depending on the location, the number of nails affected, and the specific laser technology used. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1200 for a complete treatment course. It’s best to get a quote from your podiatrist during your initial consultation.
In Closing
Laser therapy is an effective, non-invasive toenail fungus treatment that requires minimal downtime. However, it’s important to discuss all your treatment options with a podiatrist to determine the best course of action for you.
When considering treatments, weigh the pros and cons of each based on your individual circumstances. Think about the cost, how well it works, and any potential side effects.
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to explore your options and get started on the path to healthier nails.