Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a frustratingly common condition that affects an estimated 10% of people in the United States, and some may seek alternative treatments, such as bee venom. It can be difficult to get rid of, and there are many different treatment options available, ranging from over-the-counter remedies to prescription medications and even surgical procedures.
But when you’re dealing with a stubborn case of toenail fungus, one of your first questions is likely to be: “How much is this going to cost me?” This article provides some answers by exploring the costs associated with various toenail fungus treatments, with a special focus on laser therapy and how much it might cost to remove a fungus toenail using this technology.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail. It can be tricky to get rid of.
If you have a toenail fungus, your nail might:
- change color
- thicken
- crumble
The structure of the nail makes it hard to treat toenail fungus with creams or other medicines you put on your skin. Fungal infections can also be stubborn and need consistent treatment to go away completely. As such, the costs of treatment can vary widely.
Cost of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Toenail Fungus Treatments
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, the good news is that you can find creams, lotions, and nail polishes at your local drugstore, including options like Kerasal Nail Repair. These are usually topical treatments that you apply directly to the affected nail.
The cost for these over-the-counter treatments is generally less than $20, making them an affordable first step.
However, keep in mind that these treatments often aren’t strong enough to tackle severe infections. They can be a good option for mild cases, but if your toenail fungus is more advanced, you’ll likely need something stronger from your doctor.
Prescription antifungal pills: Cost and considerations
Sometimes, a topical treatment isn’t enough to get rid of a toenail fungus. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication. These medications work from the inside out to kill the fungus.
Common oral antifungals are terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox), but there are also topical versions of similar medications, such as itraconazole cream, available. Generic versions are much more affordable than brand-name versions. For example, a 90-day supply of generic terbinafine can cost as little as $10 at some pharmacies. On the other hand, a brand-name drug like Lamisil could cost $500 or more.
Keep in mind that oral antifungal medications can have side effects, such as liver toxicity, so your doctor will need to monitor you closely. They can also interact with other medications you’re taking.
It’s also worth noting that even oral prescription antifungals don’t always work.
Laser Therapy for Toenail Fungus: Cost Breakdown
If you’ve got toenail fungus, laser therapy is one option for getting rid of it.
How Laser Therapy Works
Laser therapy uses a laser that emits a specific wavelength of light to vaporize the fungus. The procedure is designed to minimize damage to the tissue surrounding the toenail.
Average Cost of Laser Treatment
Laser treatment for toenail fungus typically costs between $750 and $1,500 per treatment. Keep in mind that the cost varies based on:
- the podiatrist
- the geographic location
- the specific laser technology used
Number of Treatments Required
You’ll probably need more than one treatment to resolve a toenail fungus infection. Make sure you get a detailed quote from your podiatrist that includes the number of treatments they expect you to need.
Insurance Coverage
You’ll also want to check with your insurance company to see if laser therapy is a covered treatment. Medicare and some health insurance plans may not pay for laser therapy to treat toenail fungus.
Laser therapy: Does it really work?
Laser therapy is considered the most effective treatment for toenail fungus, and it has a 60% to 80% chance of permanently resolving the infection.
What to expect
Laser therapy is usually painless, and it’s quick, too. Treating one foot typically takes only 10 to 20 minutes.
Recovery and nail regrowth
After laser therapy, it takes a new nail 6 to 12 months to grow in. You may need to schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor to be sure the treatment worked, and you don’t have a recurrence of toenail fungus.
If you’re interested in laser therapy, be sure to ask your doctor about the success rate and the number of treatments needed.
Factors Influencing Treatment Choice and Cost
The type of toenail fungus treatment you ultimately choose will depend on several factors, including:
- How severe the infection is
- Your overall health and medical history
- Your budget and insurance coverage
- Your preferences and tolerance for possible side effects from the treatment
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a medical pedicure?
A medical pedicure, which addresses foot health issues like fungal nails, typically costs more than a standard pedicure. Prices vary depending on location, the practitioner’s expertise, and the specific services included, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $200 or more.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide may have some antifungal properties, but it’s generally not considered an effective treatment for toenail fungus. While it might help to clean and disinfect the area, it usually doesn’t penetrate the nail sufficiently to eradicate the infection. More effective treatments are typically needed.
What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long?
Leaving toenail fungus untreated can lead to several complications. The infection may spread to other nails or skin areas, cause pain and discomfort, and even affect your ability to walk comfortably. The nail can also become thickened, discolored, and deformed over time.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
You should not attempt to cut your toenail off yourself. This can increase the risk of infection and injury. A podiatrist may debride (trim and file) the nail as part of treatment, but complete removal is a medical procedure best left to professionals.
How much does it cost to get toenail fungus removed?
The cost of toenail fungus removal varies significantly. Topical medications are generally the least expensive option, while oral medications and laser treatments can be more costly. Surgical removal is typically the most expensive and ranges from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the case and insurance coverage.
To conclude
Toenail fungus treatment costs vary widely. Topical treatments are less expensive than oral medications or laser therapy. Surgical removal is another option.
Talk with a podiatrist to get an individualized recommendation about the best treatment for you. Then, weigh the costs and benefits of each treatment option to decide what makes sense for your situation.