Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment: Does It Work, Cost, and What to Expect

If you’ve ever struggled with toenail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis, you know how stubborn and frustrating it can be. Discolored, thickened nails can affect your confidence, limit your footwear choices, and even cause discomfort. Traditional treatments like topical creams and oral medications often come with mixed results and lengthy timelines. But what if there was a quicker and more effective solution to restore healthy nails? Consider toenail fungus laser treatment- a cutting-edge, non-invasive method to target the root cause of the problem and precision with minimal downtime. 

Let’s explore fungal nail laser therapy and transform your nails with confidence!!

What is Laser Therapy?

Fungal nail laser therapy is basically a non-invasive method to get rid of fungal infections from toenails. It uses a laser that emits a beam of light to target and kill the infection without damaging the nearby healthy tissues. The laser, in addition, also activates the immune response of the body to fight against the fungal infection. This procedure is painless and does not take more than 30 minutes. With multiple sessions, you can see the results in about 2 months.

Cost of Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus:

In the U.S.A., the cost can typically range between $500 and $1,200 which can vary depending on the severity of the toenail infection and the number of toenails to be treated.

How Does Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment Work?

This is how the antifungal laser treatment effectively works: 

• Deliver Targeted Energy: The laser-like CO2 lasers or yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) lasers through the device are aimed at the infected area to allow heat to pass through the toenail and into the nail bed, the location of the fungus.

• Destroys Fungus: The heat turns the infected tissue into a gas and breaks it down, killing the fungus and the surrounding skin and nail tissues.

• Sterilize the Area: Additionally, the heat from the lasers sterilizes the area, inhibiting fresh fungus development.

Note: When applied properly, laser therapy doesn't release enough energy to destroy every piece of tissue or infection. Hence, further sessions are typically required to get rid of fungal infections entirely.

How Effective Is Laser Treatment for Fungal Nail Infections?

Laser technology for fungal infections is considered the most effective procedure for fungal infections. According to one study, the clinical efficacy of such a treatment for onychomycosis after 180 days was reported at 91% while the success rate was around 30%. After several sessions, the treatment ensures the complete clearance of the fungus and healthy nail growth. Most of the diagnosis tests don't find any signs of infection after the laser therapy. However, the success of laser treatment can depend on the type and severity of the fungal infection.

Benefits of Laser Therapy for Toenail Fungus

The following are the incredible benefits of laser therapy for toenail fungus:

• Safe and highly effective

• Quick treatment within 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the infection

• No discomfort, however, if present, will stay for 48 hours after the therapy

• No harm to surrounding tissues

• Preserves nails, keeps them intact, and also enhances their appearance

• An ideal alternative to toxic oral medications

• Suitable for all age groups

• Quick recovery time

• Offers immediate, fast relief from fungus

Procedure of Laser Therapy for Toenail Fungus

This is what you can expect:

Before Therapy:

• The doctors will inquire about your symptoms during your initial appointment for laser nail fungus treatment. In addition, they may take a toe sample for examination under a microscope.

• On the day of treatment or before some days, the podiatrist, or dermatologist will remove dead skin and cut your toenails.

• Then, before the procedure, your foot will be washed with a sterile solution and placed in an accessible area so the medical professional may point the laser at it. 

• The damaged nails will be covered with the laser, and if there is a possibility that a fungus may be developing there, the non-affected nails may also be covered with the laser.

• The danger of adverse effects is decreased by minimizing skin heat through specific wavelengths or by pulsing the laser.

• Then, laser therapy is performed which usually takes 30 minutes or less each session.

After Therapy:

• 1-3 sessions will be required with an interval of several weeks. 

• Results will be seen after 2 months of the initial laser therapy.

• It will take 12-18 months to completely regrow a toenail.

Risks Associated With Laser Treatment

In general, laser treatment for toenail fungus is safe. A few patients might experience:

• mild burning sensation

• redness (reduces after 72 hours)

• swelling (subside after 72 hours)

• discoloration of the nail

In rare cases, a person may notice blistering, scarring, and bleeding due to the high intensity of the laser. Hence, treatment from experienced and qualified dermatologists to prevent any type of risks.

When to Seek Laser Treatment From A Healthcare Provider?

See a doctor in case of:

• Persistent infection

• Severe tooth discoloration

• Thickened toenails

• Pain or discomfort

• Frequent recurrence

• Cosmetic concerns

Can Toenail Fungus Reappear After Laser Therapy?

Yes, after laser therapy, toenail fungus may reappear. Research has shown that between 10% and 53% of patients experience a progressive recurrence of the fungus after it has been eradicated. Hence, you need to maintain proper foot hygiene. For that, make sure to:

• clean & dry your feet

• trim the toenails

• disinfect the shoes

Seek medical guidance to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Tips to Reduce the Recurrence of Toenail Fungus

Follow these tips to lower the risk of toenail in the future:

• Always Clean & Dry Your Feet: Thoroughly clean and dry your feet, particularly between your toes.

• Wear Breathable Shoes: Wear leather or mesh-made shoes for proper air circulation and no buildup of moisture.

• Change Your Socks Regularly: Wear moisture-absorbing socks and also make sure to change them regularly in case they get wet.

• Apply Antifungal Products: Use these antifungal products to prevent the risk of fungal growth.

• Use Flip-Flops in Public Settings: Keep your feet protected from fungi by wearing them in public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers.

• Disinfect & Clean Your Nail Clippers: Always ensure to clean and disinfect your nail care device to avoid fungus transmission.

• Properly Trim Your Nails: Keep toenails well-trimmed and straight to alleviate the chances of fungal entry or injury.

Who is Suitable for Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment can be suitable for:

• Diabetic people who are more prone to foot complications

• Individuals with liver or kidney disease

• Older people who can't swallow certain medications

• Individuals who don't want to take oral medications

Summing Up

Toenail fungus laser treatment is a safe and effective procedure to kill fungal infections. The treatment takes less than 30 minutes to remove fungus using laser lights and carbon dioxide gas. With minimal discomfort, it ensures no harm to surrounding tissues. With several sessions, you can completely get rid of toenail fungus. However, if you don’t take care of your treated toenail, the fungus can recur. So, maintain foot hygiene by cleaning and drying the feet, trimming the toenails, and disinfecting the shoes. 

See the doctor immediately if the toenail fungus recurs.

Also Read: How to Get Rid of Fungal Infection in Hands?