Laser fungal nail treatment has become a popular option for those with persistent toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis. Unlike topical treatments or oral medications, laser therapy offers a non-invasive and targeted approach with minimal side effects. If you’re considering this method to treat nail fungus, knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns and prepare you for the process ahead. Our podiatry team at Newtown Foot and Ankle provides laser nail therapy in Newtown, PA.
Your First Consultation
Before you begin any treatment, you’ll first meet with one of our podiatrists who specializes in laser fungal therapy. Our specialist will examine your nails to confirm a fungal infection and assess its severity. This may involve a visual inspection. In some cases, we’ll take nail clippings or debris samples and send them to a lab.
This step better ensures that laser treatment is the right course of action and not a misdiagnosis of another nail condition, such as psoriasis or trauma-related nail discoloration. Our doctor will also ask about your medical history and if you’ve tried other treatments in the past. This information helps us create a tailored treatment plan that fits your needs.
Laser Fungal Nail Treatment at Newtown Foot and Ankle
We perform laser fungal nail treatment in our clinic. This laser treatment can take around 30 to 45 minutes based on the number of nails treated. Our office uses a FDA-approved laser devices that emit pulses of light energy targeted at the fungus living beneath the nail. This light penetrates the nail plate but doesn’t damage the surrounding skin or tissue to kill the fungal organisms in the nail bed.
The procedure is also painless. Some patients can feel a mild warming sensation or a slight pinch as the laser moves across the nail. But we don’t need anesthesia. You’ll be awake the entire time and can resume most normal activities after treatment.
Post-Treatment Care and Expectations
Laser treatment has little to no downtime. We may ask you to wear open-toe shoes or clean socks, and to keep your feet dry and clean to help prevent reinfection. Our doctor might also recommend that you use antifungal sprays or powders in your shoes and on your feet. He or she may also give you tips for good foot hygiene at home.
While we kill fungus during treatment, it takes time to get visible results. Toenails grow slowly, and it could take several months for a healthy new nail to fully replace the damaged one. Most people start to see improvement in nail clarity and color within three to six months. But full regrowth may take up to a year.
You may need multiple sessions for the best results. Depending on the severity of the infection, we may schedule follow-up treatments spaced several weeks apart. These sessions remove any fungal cells so new infections don’t take hold.
Potential Risks and Limitations
Laser treatment is safe for most people and usually has very few side effects. But it’s not always a guaranteed cure. Fungal infections can be tough to get rid of completely. While the laser can greatly reduce the fungus, the infection can return if you don’t follow proper aftercare steps.
This treatment isn’t typically covered by insurance because it’s often seen as cosmetic. You can discuss pricing and package options with your provider so there aren’t any surprises.
Laser Fungal Nail Treatment in Newtown, PA
At Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists, we’re here to provide a safe and comfortable experience for all patients. We use the latest in medical technology to meet your goals. If you have fungal nails, our laser treatment could help. Contact our office today at 215.234.3772 to schedule an appointment and learn more about the procedure.