Are your toenails suddenly an irregular shape or texture? Do you try to treat your toenail fungus with topical solutions but don’t get the results you want? That’s where lasers come in. At the Center for SmartLipo, in Langhorne, PA, we offer laser treatment for toenail fungus. Small cracks in the nail can allow fungi (a singular form of fungus) to enter beneath the nail, leading to thick, yellowed, and flaky nails. It can be a lengthy process to remove toenail fungus with medication or topical solutions. Alternatively, lasers can provide effective, targeted treatment to remove fungus and restore the health and appearance of your natural nails.
How Effective is Laser Treatment for Fungal Infections?
Laser treatments are effective in removing fungal infections and creating healthier nails. The US Department of Health and Human Services said that FDA-approved laser devices produce an ” increase in clear nails in patients with onychomycosis.” Laser treatments have also been effective in clinical trials. A 2019 study published by the American Association of Family Physicians found 91% clinical improvement in nails and a 30% cure rate after 180 days.
Fungus does not regrow after laser treatment, unlike some treatments. Other antifungal treatments, like medications, can even elevate enzymes in the liver and even lead to liver failure. Less threatening but uncomfortable symptoms can include headaches, loss of taste, and stomach discomfort. Many oral medications also require multiple courses over many months. Topical antifungals can take up to a year for results. Laser treatment takes three 30-minute treatments in our office.
How Can Lasers Treat Fungus?
At the Center for SmartLipo, we use yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) lasers to remove toenail fungus. Laser devices produce energy pulses that create heat. When we direct this heat at the toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, the laser penetrates through the toenail to remove the fungus.
Lasers create energy wavelengths that allow us to localize heat and target fungus. These wavelengths gasify the tissue under the nail to remove any fungus surrounding the tissue. The laser sterilizes the area to prevent new fungal growth.
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus in Langhorne, PA
Lasers can treat these symptoms of toenail fungus:
- Brown, yellow, or white toenail discoloration
- Swelling or pain around the nail
- Thick nails
- Flaky debris on or under the toenail
- Detached nails from the nail bed
- Irregular bumps, thickness, or toenail shape
Laser treatment for toenail fungus is a simple, pain-free procedure. First, we will clean the foot with a sterile solution. Then, we place the laser over the affected areas. We use pulses of laser energy to minimize heat on the skin. The laser session lasts 30 minutes or less.
We recommend 3 sessions for the best results. Because we use low energies, it will take multiple sessions to eliminate all fungal growth without damaging tissue or creating excessive heat on the skin. After these sessions, patients begin to notice a more natural-looking nail color, shape, and texture.
Schedule Your Consultation
Are you ready to learn more about what lasers can do for you? Call (215) 608-5691 or request a consultation on our website.