Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common and often frustrating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by discolored, thick, and brittle nails, nail fungus can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. For many, it can be embarrassing, making it difficult to wear open-toed shoes or walk barefoot. Traditional treatments such as topical creams and oral medications often fail to provide a complete cure, leaving sufferers searching for more effective solutions. Enter Nail Fungus Removal with Laser – a modern, innovative treatment that provides a fast, effective, and non-invasive way to restore healthy nails. In this comprehensive guide, we discuss everything you need to know about this cutting-edge treatment and why it could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is a fungal infection that occurs when microscopic fungi enter the nail bed through small cuts or separations between the nail and the nail bed. It thrives in warm, moist environments, making feet particularly susceptible.
Common causes include:
- Walking barefoot in public areas like gyms, pools, and locker rooms.
- Wearing tight, non-breathable shoes.
- Having a weakened immune system or conditions like diabetes.
- Sharing contaminated nail clippers or towels.
Symptoms of nail fungus include:
- Yellow, brown, or white discoloration.
- Thickened or crumbly nails.
- Foul odor.
- Pain or discomfort, especially when pressure is applied.
Left untreated, nail fungus can spread to other nails and even lead to more serious infections. It can also significantly impact self-esteem and quality of life, making effective treatment essential.
Traditional Treatments vs. Laser Therapy
For years, the go-to treatments for nail fungus have included over-the-counter antifungal creams, prescription oral medications, and medicated nail polishes. While these can be helpful, they often include some limitations of their own. For example:
Topical Treatments: The problem with many topical treatments is that they can’t penetrate into the nail bed to reach the fungus.
Oral Medications: While more effective, they can cause side effects like liver damage and require long-term use.
Medicated Nail Polishes: These may take months to show results and are not always effective for severe infections.
Nail Fungus Removal with a Laser does just the opposite: completely new and innovative. With this treatment, the laser energy targets the fungal organisms through the nail without harming the surrounding tissue. This is a non-invasive, pain-free treatment and highly effective compared to other conventional methods.
How Does Nail Fungus Removal with Laser Work?
Nail Fungus Removal with Laser is an innovative approach that uses wavelengths of light for the effective killing of fungal agents. Herein, this would explain how:
- The laser projects a narrow-width beam of light that penetrates through the nail.
- The light energy absorbed by the pigment in the fungus effectively kills the fungus.
- The heat generated from the laser further sterilizes the area, thereby preventing future infections.
The whole process is very quick; it usually takes less than 30 minutes per session. Most of the patients have described the feeling as warm or tingling, and no post-procedure downtime is required.
Benefits of Laser Nail Fungus Treatment
Laser therapy for nail fungus has gained popularity due to its numerous advantages:
- Non-invasive: Unlike oral medications, laser treatment does not involve the ingestion of chemicals or their side effects.
- Effective due to clinical studies showing great success in removing nail fungus.
- Minimal Side Effects: Very few patients show discomfort or complications.
- Faster Recovery: While other treatments might take several months, the results of laser therapy are usually seen within weeks.
- No Downtime: You can immediately go about your daily activities after the procedure.
Is Laser Treatment Safe?
Safety is one of the important concerns when any new medical procedure is considered. Fortunately, the Nail Fungus Removal with Laser is safe and approved by the FDA. Most patients are suitable candidates for this treatment, including patients who cannot use oral antifungal medications because of liver problems or other systemic diseases. Of course, one should consult with a qualified podiatrist, but laser therapy is generally right for most.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
If you’re considering Nail Fungus Removal with Laser, here’s what you can expect:
During the Procedure:
- The affected nails are cleaned and prepared.
- You will be given protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the laser light.
- It applies this laser device to the nails, targeting the fungus.
- This is a nonpainful procedure, usually done within 30 minutes.
After the Procedure:
- You may feel some sensation of warmth or redness, but this often disappears very fast.
- There is no downtime, and you simply go back to normal activities.
- In the coming weeks, this infected nail will grow out to reveal healthier and clearer nails.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions depends on the severity of the infection. Most patients require 3 to 6 treatments, a few weeks apart, for optimal results. Your podiatrist will tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.
Cost of Nail Fungus Removal with Laser
The cost of Nail Fungus Removal with Laser varies depending on the number of sessions needed and the severity of the infection. On average, patients can expect to pay anywhere between $500 to $1500 for a full course of treatment. While the upfront cost may seem high, many find it to be a worthwhile investment compared to the ongoing expense and inconvenience of traditional treatments. However, most of the insurance plans do not cover laser therapy for nail fungus, though some clinics can offer financing to make the treatment more affordable.
Why Choose Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona for Laser Nail Fungus Treatment?
Nail fungus laser removal requires one to consider where to have it done. Here at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, DPM, FACFAS, along with his professional team, provides the highest possible standard of care. Patients put their trust in us because:
- Experience: Dr. DiNucci is board-certified as a podiatrist and possesses extensive experience dealing with the condition of nail fungus.
- Advanced Technology: Treatment is done at our clinic using the latest in laser technology, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
- Personalized Care: We make a plan of treatment that caters to the different needs of every patient.
- Location: Our location in Scottsdale, AZ, is convenient for patients who may reside in the area.
Conclusion
Nail fungus infections can be chronic and embarrassing, but they don’t have to be. Nail Fungus Removal with Laser offers an effective, fast, and non-invasive way to restore your nails to their normal, healthy state. The effectiveness of laser therapy, its low side effects, and its relatively quick recovery are three of the main reasons why lasers are an increasingly popular method of treating this health condition.
Now, we invite you to make an appointment with Dr. Chris A. Dinucci at the Foot & Ankle Center of Arizona. Our team is here to give you the personalized care and advanced options you deserve.
