How Effective Is Laser Fungus Removal

How To Treat Toenail Fungus

Traditional remedies for toenail fungus include creams and ointments, both over the counter and prescriptive. But the efficacy of these preparations is limited. The dermatophyte fungi burrow between the layers of your nails. Because those nails are nonporous, its difficult for ointments to penetrate enough to take effect. The success rate for topical ointments is therefore quite low.

Systemic medications, taken orally, use a more direct approach to address the fungus. You take the pill, the medication is absorbed into your bloodstream, and the fungus is attacked within the nail formation process.

Treatment Covered By Insurance

Toenail laser therapy is the most effective way to eliminate a fungal nail infection. Unfortunately, this procedure is currently not covered by medical insurance since it is considered aesthetic. However, there are ways you can help manage the cost of a laser therapy. Some work places offer a flex spending account as a benefit, so you can set aside money tax-free for medical expenses. You may be able to have your claim costs reimbursed through your FSA under your offices plan. Country Foot Care also offers Care Credit to qualified patients, which gives you 6 months interest-free to pay for laser treatment for fungal nail infection.

If youre tired of looking at unsightly nails, or feeling embarrassed to walk around in open-toed footwear, then let Country Foot Care help you eliminate the infection. To make an appointment with Country Foot Cares experienced and knowledgeable doctors, call our offices or submit a request online by clicking on the MAKE AN APPOINTMENT button at the top of this page.

Read Also: How Long Does It Take To Heal Toenail Fungus

Number Of Nails That Require Treatment

The cost to treat toenail fungus with laser therapy will go up if you have to treat multiple toenails.

The higher the number of toenails with the fungus infection, the more the amount of resources that go into the treatment.

For instance, the laser equipment used for the treatment will require more power. Theres a type of laser that works with CO2. If you are getting treatment on multiple nails, the medical spa will have to arrange for more CO2. Typically, this will reflect in the cost of treatment.

Furthermore, the more toes that need treatment, the more time it will take for the medical aesthetician to complete the treatment. Hourly cost is one of the variable costs that constitute the overall cost of laser therapy for toenail fungus in Canada.

Also Check: How Does Vicks Work On Toenail Fungus

Is This Treatment Safe

YES. Throughout clinical studies, performed since 2007, no adverse reactions, side-affects or injuries have been reported with LASER treatment of fungal toenails. Unlike currently available oral antifungal medications, there are no risks to the liver or other organs. The treatment is safe for adults and children and there are no age restrictions.

What Toenail Fungus Treatment Is Available

So youre wondering how to treat toenail fungus. Until relatively recently, toenail fungus treatment has been limited to topical anti-fungal creams/nail lacquer and oral medication. Theyve had some success but come with many downsides.

The antifungal cream/lacquer has the lowest success rate. Unless you have mild toenail fungus, it will likely not be able to reach the infection in or under the nail. Prescribed oral medications work better but have medical risks and react with other prescription drugs.

Side effects may include elevated liver enzymes that can lead to liver failure, headaches, stomach discomfort, loss of taste, and lupus-like symptoms.

Both topicals and oral meds require long-term applications and topicals can get quite expensive. Topical antifungals can take up to a year to show results. With oral medication, you may need to take up to a four-month course.

Another treatment option is to have your entire nail surgically removed. This, however, hasnt proven to be successful.

Since these treatments are lacking, people began looking for toenail fungus alternative treatments. Enter laser therapy. Studies show its success in clearing fungal infection and so it was FDA cleared and began to be a top-pick in treating toenail fungus.

Don’t Miss: Can Tinactin Cure Toenail Fungus

How Does Laser Treatment Work

The laser treatment used in our offices are FDA-cleared, quick and painless. Your first visit involves a consultation with one of our podiatrists, who will confirm the diagnosis of nail fungus and lay out a treatment plan. You may also receive a regimen to help prevent toenail fungus problems in the future.

Your next six visits are when you will receive your personalized laser treatment. The treatments take place one month apart, over the course of six months. One of our trained laser technicians will perform your nail fungus treatment. The visit should take approximately 30 minutes and is a virtually painless procedure. You will feel warmth on your toes, but no pain. Anesthesia is not necessary for laser treatment, and there is no down time after the procedure. You should be able to return to your normal daily routine immediately after receiving this safe and effective treatment.

After the final round of laser treatment, you will need a follow-up appointment with your doctor three months after recieving your last laser treatment.

What Is The Traditional Treatment Of Onychomycosis

Because most of these infections are relatively superficial, it would seem that topical treatments ought to work well. This is not the case because the nail unit is relatively impenetrable. In addition, it is common for these infections to be entirely asymptomatic , which doesn’t seem to diminish the patient’s distress with the unpleasant appearance of the nail. A perfect treatment modality would be inexpensive, very effective, and very safe. Sadly, we have not achieved this perfect situation yet.

Currently accepted treatments include relatively ineffective topical therapies and oral treatments which are reasonably effective but are associated with some degree of risk. Both approaches require a long duration of treatment and the topical therapies in particular are somewhat costly. Most experts agree that surgical approaches like removing the nail plate are ineffective.

Don’t Miss: How To Get Foot Fungus Out Of Shoes

The Procedure Takes Less Than One Hour

Theres no need to be worried if you run a very tight schedule. Individual treatment sessions of laser therapy for toenail fungus usually take less than an hour. This is enough to fit into your tight schedule.

Comparing this treatment to other treatments, a session is simple and fast. However, in some cases, you may need to undergo two sessions or more.

Can The Fungus Return Or Not Go Away

• The fungal infection is expected to improve with just one treatment. Clinical reports to date have been encouraging with most patients noticing significant improvement. As with all medical procedures, a 100% guarantee is not possible. In addition, since fungus is present everywhere in the environment, reinfection may occur. Dr. Penn will recommend preventative strategies to reduce the chance of reinfection. Changing socks and shoes frequently is helpful, as well as controlling perspiration if present.

Recommended Reading: How Do You Kill Fungus In Your Yard

Toe Fungus Treatment Recovery And Timeline

While there is no recovery period following this procedure, patients must take proper care of their toenails to prevent a recurrence. This includes lifestyle changes, such as no longer getting pedicures in unsanitary nail salons and only wearing dry shoes.

Patients will also be instructed to use a topical fungal treatment for three weeks. This treatment is put directly on the nail plate. Patients are also encouraged to throw out their old footwear. As an additional precaution, patients can purchase ultraviolet light inserts to place in their shoes. These inserts are available at SpaMedica and reduce the risk of getting another nail fungus from contaminated footwear.

Toenail Fungus Onychomycosis Is A Very Common Condition Affecting One In Ten Canadians

The appearance of toenail fungus is not only unsightly but can lead to embarrassment and a lack of self confidence. It is estimated that upwards of 10% of the North American population suffer from toenail fungus, with the number dramatically increasing as people age.

Toenail fungus does not generally pose any serious risks in people who are in good health, however, it rarely goes away on its own, and must be medically treated.

What Is Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is a medical condition called onychomycosis and is a very common infection found in the toenail. It is typically identified by a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of the toenail. There is generally no pain associated with toenail fungus, however, debris is often found under the toenail and may cause the nail to thicken, crumble, and spread to several other toenails.

Toenail fungus is most often caused by dermatophytes, fungal organisms which surface as infections of the hair, skin, and nails. Because dermatophytes are spread through direct contact, toenail fungus is deemed contagious.

Further, toenail fungus can also be caused by untreated athletes foot, exposure to yeast and molds, and is very common in people with poor circulation in the feet and compromised immune systems.

Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

Conditions Treated By Laser Fungal Toenail Therapy

• Toenail Fungus / Onychomycosis
• Changes in toenail shape

How Does The Laser Fungal Toenail Therapy Procedure Work?

When Will I See Results?

Recommended Reading: How Long Does It Take To Heal Toenail Fungus

Words From Our Patients

• “Definitely a premier foot & ankle operation and I would highly suggest Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care to anyone who needs to get back on their feet.”

  Max H.

• ” I highly recommend Castle Rock Foot and Ankle Care to everyone! I will be taking my parents there for their foot care as well!”

  Steve J.

• “My experience with Dr. Herzog and all the staff was an extremely good one! I highly recommend Dr. Herzog!”

  Gary L.

• “My experience with Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care has been exceptional and I would highly recommend them for everything from orthotics to surgery.”

  Gail H.

• “My feet issues will require lifelong care and I’m finally confident and stress free in knowing I have someone I can trust to do that. Thx Dr. Herzog.”

  Andrew D.

• “The office staff is all very nice to deal with. I’ve been very happy with him and would highly recommend this practice.”

  Wendy A.

• “The staff at Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care are as nice and caring and competent as I’ve seen and together, they made a nasty ordeal as good as it could possibly be.”

  Don B.

• “Definitely a premier foot & ankle operation and I would highly suggest Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care to anyone who needs to get back on their feet.”

  Max H.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Laser Toenail Fungus Removal

Pros

• Research shows that laser treatment can be effective at improving toenails affected by fungal infections.
• Laser treatment is fast and painless.
• It requires no downtime. Youll be able to wear nail polish and shoes and return to everyday activities right away.
• Laser treatment may be a safer treatment option than prescription oral antifungal medication, which is considered more effective but comes with a potential risk of liver toxicity and requires monitoring with blood tests.

Cons

• Most people need a series of laser treatments, for the best results.
• Toenail fungus is very difficult to eradicate. Even when effective, its not uncommon for the fungus to return.
• Laser treatment is expensive , and it isnt usually covered by health insurance.

You May Like: How To Remove Nail Fungus Fast

Fungus On Skin On Back Pain Relief For Toenail Fungus

Does Sunlight Cure Toenail Fungus Fungus Killer Stick Nail Is Laser Toenail Fungus Removal Effective. How Use Coconut Oil To Kill Toe Fungus Toenail Fungus And Getting A Pedi. Best Fungus Powder To Prevent Toenail Fungus How Long Does It Take To Get Rid Of Fungus On The Skin. Fluconazole And Skin Fungus Foot Fungus Ketoconazole.

Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda For Nail Fungus Toe Fungus Laser Treatment Denver. Foot Fungus Wet Shoes Otc Toenail Fungus Creams Removing Fingernail Fungus. Athlete Foot Parasitic Fungus Cleaning Foot Fungus With Vinegar.

Why Choose Spamedica For A Toe Fungus Treatment

Dr. Mulholland is a leader in the use of non-invasive lasers and has developed numerous techniques to make laser treatments more effective, achieving optimal results overall. Dr. Mulhollands gentle approach and overall success rate treating toenail fungus is the reason why he and his skillfully trained staff at SpaMedica remain the experts in the industry and have offered laser toenail treatments longer than any other Toronto Centre.

Recommended Reading: What Over The Counter Medicine Is Good For Toenail Fungus

Skin Fungus Thigh Eliminating Toenail Fungus With Vaseline And Saran Wrap

Eselsun Blue As Skin Fungus Treatment Cost To Cure Toe Toenail Fungus Is Laser Toenail Fungus Removal Covered By Insurance. Nail Fungus Do I Have To Get Rid Of My Nail Polishes What Clears Up Foot Fungus Cause Of Liver Spots On Skin Agingt Fungus. Nail Fungus Prescription Lamisil Cash Price Nail Fungus Removal Surgery Defense Body Wash Antifungal Reviews Foot Fungus.

You May Like: How To Cure Fungus On Big Toe

Laser Therapy For Fungal Toenails

Now, by many requests from patients, WE HAVE ACQUIRED THE FDA APPROVED LASER THE HYPERBLUE 1530 SYSTEM. This is approved for temporary clearing of fungus of the nail. The laser light penetrates through the nail and soft tissue to both kill fungus in its path, and promotes new nail growth. Once the living fungus is zapped by the laser, healthy nails begin to grow from the cuticle of the nail. This utilizes infrared radiation which is not painful and it is safe to gently heat the base of the nail. This area of the nail is where the fungus survives.

This system eradicates the fungus. It will require repeat visits for treatment over a 3 month period. The treatment is typically 5-15 minutes, spaced 30 days apart for 3 months. As the nail grows slowly, it can take approximately 6-12 months for the new nail to replace the old infected nail. It is VERY EFFECTIVE.

Clinical studies show that the laser kills toenail fungus and promotes clear nail growth with a single treatment in better than 80% of cases. The laser treatment is safe, effective, and most patients improve usually after their first treatment.

There are several advantages of applying laser treatment to toenail fungus. They are:

• Safe, painless treatment

• No side effects or drugs

• No liver enzyme test required

• No recovery time – just walk in and walk out

• Only 15 minutes required to treat the toenail fungus on both feet, if all 10 nails are being treated.

Don’t Miss: Can Toenail Fungus Go Away On Its Own

Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment Long Island Is Acetone Good For Nail Fungus

Can Treat Toe Fungus With Triple Antibiotic Is Toenail Fungus A Bacteria. Can Lemon Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus What Is The Best Medicine For Toe Nail Fungus African Toe Fungus. Natural Way To Kill Toenail Fungus Youtube Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus Family Care Clotrimazole Anti Fungal Cream Toenail Fungus.

Podiatrists Located In Castle Rock Co

Toenail fungus gives toes an unsightly appearance that can cause self-consciousness. Its also a condition thats difficult to get rid of. At Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care, Dr. Jessica Herzog, Dr. Scott Carrington, and Dr. Paul Stone offer innovative laser toenail fungus treatment. This type of treatment provides a safe and effective way to improve the health and appearance of toenails.

You May Like: How Much Is Laser Nail Fungus Removal

Over 20 Percent Of Us Adults Or Approximately 23 Million People Suffer From Toenail Fungus Infection

Unfortunately, those treatments that have been around a while toxic oral medications and expensive topical creams or nail polish often dont really work. Topical treatments are less than 5% effective. Yes, that’s correct – only 5% effective and only when the fungus is caught very early and only treats the surface of the nail. Not to mention, oral medications are very toxic to the liver, have significant side effects, require regular blood testing so your liver doesnt fail. As a matter of fact, they can adverse reactaions by interacting with other medications you may already be taking. Furthermore, pills are only 60% or so effective, and then the fungus usually comes back within 12 months. That can be extremely frustrating and discouraging.

Fortunately, there is a newer, better, safer treatment available, and laser therapy works over 90% of the time. Since around 2010, more than a handful of laser devices have been FDA approved and are used with success by podiatrists as a safe, quick, effective, pain-free form of treatment. Good to know there’s a solution and effective treatment available – right?

To help guide you through the murky world of toenail fungus, I have put together some basic information to make things easy for you. Below you will find out more about this unsightly condition, how its treated, and what you can expect if you decide laser therapy is the right choice for you.

How Effective Is Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is considered the most effective method of removing unwanted tattoos. While a large, colorful tattoo may take more than a few treatments to remove, once a tattoo has been removed, it will not come back.

While the Picoway® laser works as effectively as any tattoo removal procedure available, even it cannot guarantee the complete and total removal of every tattoo. Some tattoos may leave traces behind, although they will fade enough to become unnoticeable.

Recommended Reading: How To Kill Fungus Under Fingernails

Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus Did Not Prove Effective

Becker and Bershow reviewed the scientific studies of laser therapy for toenail fungus and found no effective results in randomized, controlled, clinical trials. In addition, the therapy was not painless and recurrence of fungal infection was high.

However, the authors of the literature review acknowledged that reinfection is so common with nail fungus that it is possible that reinfection, not recurrence of the original infection, was responsible for the unpersuasive results.

Another study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, noted that laser treatment did not produce a cure when tested on humans with toenail fungus. The researchers noted that only one kind of laser light was tested. Nevertheless, they stated about their results: In vivo treatment did not result in onychomycosis cure meaning that the testing of laser treatment on human patients did not produce a toenail fungus cure.