Laser Treatment Specialist

What is laser treatment?

Laser treatment uses targeted light energy to heat up and kill onychomycosis –– a common but resilient fungus that infects the toenails. Specifically, it uses a handheld device that emits pulses of energy that produce heat. The heat causes the fungus to die, preventing it from spreading to your other toes. 

Laser treatment doesn’t emit enough heat to destroy the entire infection. As a result, it’s important to undergo a series of treatments several weeks apart.

Who is a candidate for laser treatment?

To determine if you’re a candidate for laser treatment, your Advanced Foot & Ankle Center provider reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and examines your toes and toenails. 

Toenail fungus starts out as a small white or yellow dot. As the fungus spreads, it causes your nails to thicken and crumble. 

Most fungal infections are visible to the eye, but if your symptoms are severe, your provider might also take clippings of your nails and send them to a laboratory for analysis. If you have a fungal infection, you’re a candidate for treatment.

What does laser treatment involve?

At Advanced Foot & Ankle Center, laser treatment occurs on an outpatient basis. 

At the beginning of your appointment, your provider cleans and debrides your feet. To do that, they use special tools to remove dead tissue and trim your toenails. Then, your provider cleans and sterilizes your feet.

You lie down on an exam table and your provider points the laser at your affected nails. The laser emits light energy that heats up the fungus, causing it to die. The length of treatment depends on the severity of your fungal infection, but most people finish within 30 minutes.

How many laser treatments will I need?

The number of laser treatments you’ll need depends on various factors, including the severity of the infection and your health history. Advanced Foot & Ankle Center typically recommends a series of 4-6 appointments spaced a week or two apart. 

When will I experience results from laser treatment?

Some people experience immediate relief following laser treatment, but for others, it takes weeks or even months. Laser treatment is cumulative, meaning the benefits increase over time. Be patient, follow your provider’s instructions, and attend each of your laser appointments.

To explore the benefits of laser treatment, make an appointment at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center by calling the nearest office or clicking the online booking tool today.