Laser Treatments For TOenail Fungus

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Toenail and foot fungus can be caused by trauma, poor foot hygiene, and diabetes and can affect people of any age. For unknown reasons, some people are more susceptible to contracting fungal infections. Fungus thrives in a dark, warm and moist environment, which is common in most shoes. Many people who suffer from toenail fungus are embarrassed to wear sandals or open shoes, and in some cases the infection can be painful.

Approximately 25 million Americans have some form of onychomycosis. Laser treatment is effective in approximately 90% of all cases. This revolutionary protocol is the most effective treatment for this very common and unsightly condition. Once the fungal infection has been resolved by the laser therapy and clear nail growth has begun, it’s important to take several hygienic measures in order to maximize the long-term benefits.

The Cutera laser focuses a narrow beam of intense light through the toenail to irradiate the fungus underneath. This kills the fungi living under the nail, allowing new, healthy nail tissue to grow in and push the nail damaged by the infection out. Because the highly focused light heats the nail, the Cutera device has an integrated sensor that monitors the temperature of the area being treated. This allows the doctor to adjust the laser parameters according to how you are feeling, to keep the procedure as comfortable as possible.

The procedure is noninvasive with no post-procedure recovery time preventing you from working.  No medication, injections or sedation is required.  It is important that you do not have any polish, ornaments, creams or lotions on your toes.  You will be seated in a regular treatment chair, wearing special protective laser eye glasses. Depending upon the thickness of your nails due to the fungus, your nails may be thinned using an electric grinding instrument. Thinning is important so the laser will be most effective. The entire treatment lasts approximately 30 minutes.  Most people are able to simply put on their shoes and walk out of the office immediately after the procedure and resume their normal activities. 

Most cases are resolved with a few laser treatments, along with follow up appointments with our specialist, Dr. Ben Scherer, to make sure your nails are re-growing properly. More severe infections may require more treatments.

Our podiatrist is dedicated to the best treatment for every patient he sees. That is why he trusts the Cutera laser for foot fungus. Cutera has been in the business of laser and light medical technology since the late 1990s, founded by two of the engineers who pioneered light equipment that have since become established standards in the medical community. A leader in the industry, the company participates in clinical studies, provides training to use their equipment, and sends out expert service teams to clinics to handle machinery issues. 

The Cutera® GenesisPlus treatment is FDA cleared for onychomycosis. 

Most people are able to simply put on their shoes and walk out of the office immediately after the procedure and resume their normal activities.

Each laser treatment is under 30 minutes for all ten nails. The length of time depends upon the severity of the nail condition.

The Cutera laser procedure is generally effective right away, destroying the micro-organisms causing the infection. New nail growth—infection free—is usually visible after just a month or two while the nail grows! In anywhere from 6-12 months, your nails should have grown back healthier and as beautiful as ever. 

Sanitizing your shoes is also an important part of recovery. The Sterishoe UV light treatment kills the organisms festering in your footwear and helps you avoid reinfection. With the right follow up care and prevention, you can stay free of fungus.

The total cost of the laser treatment is dependent upon the degree of fungus in the toenails. Some people are more susceptible to fungus than others due to personal physiological differences such as foot perspiration. Additional treatments are often necessary. Therefore a consultation appointment is recommended. In general, the average cost of the complete laser treatment is between $700.00 and $1,200.00.

We accept most major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, American Express and Discover), debit cards, checks and cash. Payment plans are also available.

Insurance?  Since toenail fungus is considered a cosmetic condition, health insurance companies and Medicare do not provide coverage for laser treatment. Patients with Heath Savings Accounts or Flexible Spending Accounts may be able to apply those funds toward the treatment, however we recommend that you check with your specific plan.