Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition affecting a large percentage of the population. If you’re one of those people, you know how frustrating and uncomfortable it can be to deal with.
But there’s good news! Laser treatment for nail fungus has emerged as a modern and effective solution. It’s a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments, offering convenience, safety, and high success rates.
So, what does it really cost to get laser treatment for nail fungus, and is it worth it? This article provides a comprehensive overview of the cost, the factors that influence that cost, and how it stacks up against other treatment options.
Understanding Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis)
Onychomycosis is the medical term for nail fungus, which is a fungal infection that affects your fingernails or toenails. The fungus gets under your nail and causes discoloration, thickening, and brittleness.
These symptoms can cause embarrassment and discomfort, and they can have a significant impact on your quality of life. You might feel self-conscious about your appearance, or you might find it difficult to wear certain shoes or participate in certain activities.
What is laser treatment for nail fungus?
Laser treatment is a non-invasive way to get rid of nail fungus. The laser uses targeted light to heat up the nail bed to kill the fungus living underneath. There are different types of lasers that podiatrists can use for this, such as the Nd:YAG laser and the Fotona 1064 wavelength YAG laser, but it is important to understand which laser is best for nail fungus.
How laser treatment works
The laser heats the area under your nail, which destroys the fungus. The laser light doesn’t hurt your nail or skin.
Benefits of laser treatment
Laser treatment is a great choice because it’s:
- Non-invasive (no surgery)
- Has a quick recovery time
- Works well for many people
How much does laser treatment for nail fungus cost?
Laser treatment for nail fungus isn’t cheap. A full treatment will typically run you anywhere from $500 to $1200. Keep in mind that this is an average range, and the total cost can vary significantly depending on several factors.
Many clinics charge per session, and a single session can cost anywhere from $200 to $400.
We’ll get into the specific cost factors in the next section.
One more thing to keep in mind: Because laser treatment for nail fungus is often considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance plans generally do not offer coverage.
What affects the cost of laser treatment?
Several factors can impact the total cost of laser treatment for nail fungus. Here’s what to keep in mind:
How bad is the infection?
The more severe the infection, the more laser sessions you’ll likely need. A mild case might clear up with fewer treatments, while a more advanced infection could require a longer course of therapy.
How many nails are affected?
The cost goes up with each nail treated. Some clinics offer a pricing structure where the first nail is the most expensive, and each additional nail is treated at a lower price. Be sure to ask about this.
Where’s the clinic located?
Just like with any service, location matters. Clinics in major metropolitan areas or upscale neighborhoods often have higher overhead costs, which can translate to higher prices. Demand also plays a role, as areas with more potential patients may see a price increase.
What kind of laser is used?
Different laser technologies come with different price tags. Some common laser systems used for nail fungus treatment include the Cutera GenesisPlus and the PinPointe FootLaser. Clinics that have invested in the newest, most advanced technologies may charge more for their services.
Will insurance cover it?
As mentioned earlier, insurance typically doesn’t cover laser treatment for nail fungus. However, it’s worth exploring alternative payment options.
You might be able to use funds from a Health Savings Account (HSA), Medical IRA, or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover the cost. Some clinics also offer financing plans to make the treatment more affordable.
Comparing laser treatment to other options
If you’re exploring ways to treat toenail fungus, you’ll find a range of options. Here’s what you should know about the costs and benefits of each.
Topical antifungals
You can buy antifungal creams and polishes at the drugstore for about $10 to $50 a month, but these are not very effective at getting rid of the infection, and medications like Jublia can be costly. You may have to keep using them for a long time, and they may not work.
Oral medications
Your doctor can prescribe antifungal pills that cost from $100 to $500 for a course of treatment. The course may last for months. These drugs can have side effects, and you’ll need to have blood tests to monitor your liver function. Even with those precautions, these drugs only work about half the time.
Surgical nail removal
You can have your nail removed surgically for about $300 to $1,000 per nail. However, this is an invasive procedure that requires recovery time. It may be an option if other treatments haven’t worked.
What’s the best value?
Laser treatment offers a good balance of effectiveness, safety, and convenience compared to the other options. While the initial cost may be higher, you may save money in the long run by avoiding the ongoing expenses and potential side effects associated with other treatments.
What to Expect During Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for nail fungus is pretty straightforward, and you can learn more about Lunula laser before and after results. First, you’ll have a consultation to make sure you’re a good candidate. If so, the technician will prep your toe or finger, then apply the laser. Most people find the treatment painless and quick.
Afterward, your doctor will probably recommend some aftercare steps. You’ll likely need multiple treatments spaced out over a few weeks or months to get the best results. You’ll also have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Maximizing treatment results and preventing reinfection
Laser treatment for nail fungus can be effective. But to ensure the best possible outcome, you’ve got to be proactive. That means practicing good foot hygiene.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Keep your feet dry.
- Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe.
- Disinfect your shoes regularly to kill any lingering fungus.
- Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your doctor.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your laser treatment is a success and prevent the fungus from coming back.
Is laser treatment right for you?
Laser treatment for nail fungus is a good option for people who want a non-invasive solution that works. If you’ve tried other treatments without success, or you’re simply looking for a long-term fix, laser therapy might be worth considering. It’s especially appealing if you’re willing to invest in a treatment that can offer lasting results.
The best way to know for sure if laser treatment is right for you is to talk to a podiatrist. They can evaluate your specific situation and help you decide if this is the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
The number of laser sessions you’ll need to kick that nail fungus to the curb really depends on how stubborn the infection is. We often see folks needing about 3-4 quarterly sessions to get things cleared up, or sometimes just 1-2 sessions after they’ve tried oral antifungal therapy.
Is the treatment painful?
Good news – laser treatment is generally a breeze! Most patients don’t feel any pain at all. Some might experience a little warmth, but that’s about it.
Can the fungus return after laser treatment?
Okay, let’s be real – there’s always a chance the fungus could try to make a comeback. That’s why prevention is key! We always stress the importance of good hygiene practices and suggest yearly maintenance sessions to keep those pesky spores from returning.
Closing Thoughts
Laser treatment for nail fungus can be a great option if you’re tired of dealing with topical treatments that don’t work. Talk to a podiatrist to find out whether you’re a good candidate for laser treatment and how much it might cost. With the right treatment, you can get back to having healthy, clear nails!