What is Laser Toenail Treatment: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition and Overview

Laser toenail treatment is a quick and safe form of treatment for toenail fungus, a condition caused by dermatophyte, a fungus that thrives in the outer layers of dead skin, and eventually crosses over to the nail plate. Most patients suffering from this condition are older men, but there are also many cases of female and younger patients.

There are a number of conditions or situations that lead to the development of toenail fungus. Fungi are essentially microscopic organisms, and they do not need sun exposure to survive and thrive. They love warm and moist environments and are frequently found in showers and swimming pools. The feet, with socks and shoes, provide a perfect environment for these fungi because they are also perfectly warm and moist. They thrive in toenails, which are located in the lowest part of the body, and typically have less blood flow. The fungus that causes this condition typically lodges itself in the tiny space between the toenail and the nail bed, which acts as a protection against the elements.

Some people are at a higher risk of developing toenail fungus than others. Older male patients with a family history of toenail fungus have the highest risk. So are people who perspire heavily, whose occupation involves the feet constantly getting wet, people who work or live in a moist or humid environment, living in close proximity to a person with toenail fungus, those who walk barefoot in gyms, shower rooms, and pools, and those suffering from psoriasis, circulation issues, or diabetes.

The condition does not produce any kind of symptoms, other than a very unpleasant appearance. A toenail infected by fungi typically starts out with a whitish or yellowish spot under the nail, and eventually goes deeper. As the condition progresses, the nail will begin to thicken, and exhibit discoloration, a ragged appearance, and a crumbling texture.

There are many ways to treat a toenail fungal infection. Some patients opt for over-the-counter or prescription topical medication. However, applying and ensuring that the medication penetrates the affected area can be difficult since the toenail does not have an easily permeable surface. There are also oral medications that can be prescribed to sufferers of this condition, but it could be a while before they take effect.

Laser treatment is not the first option to treat toenail fungus. Some doctors will initially recommend self-care measures or prescribe medication. If the fungus remains persistent after such measures, it is best to ask a doctor about laser treatment options.

Who should undergo and expected results

Anyone suffering from a toenail fungal infection can undergo laser treatment, especially if their condition has not responded to self-care measures or medication that a doctor has initially prescribed.

Expected results should be the clearing of the fungal infection, and the re-growth of healthy nails over time. On average, an individual grows a new, healthy toenail between six and nine months.

How the procedure works

Laser treatment for toenail fungus involves the use of a laser, a focused beam of light use in a narrow range to effectively target the infection. The specific wavelength and its pulse currency, as well as the amount of time in between the pulses of light, will depend on the manufacturer of the equipment the doctor will use. Unlike topical treatment, the laser can penetrate deep into the toenail to destroy the fungus. When exposed to the laser beam, the fungus sitting in the nail bed will evaporate.

This kind of treatment is non-invasive and generally not painful. The laser is set to not affect the healthy tissues in the nail bed, and the toenails are generally dead cells that are not connected to a nerve, so the treatment will not cause pain.

The laser procedure is also very quick and can be performed on an outpatient basis. After setting the appointment, all the patient has to do is to show up at the hospital or clinic where the procedure is going to be performed. It takes around ten minutes to treat each infected toenail and the treatment requires just one session to complete.

Laser toenail treatment is very effective, with over eighty percent of patients reporting that the fungus has completely cleared after undergoing the quick procedure. In most patient cases, the laser completely destroys the fungus and its pathogens, reducing or eliminating the risk of reoccurrence.

To speed up the growth of new healthy toenails, doctors typically prescribe a follow-up treatment, which involves anti-fungal creams with L-arginine as the active ingredient. This kind of anti-fungal cream shows very impressive results, speeding up nail replacement up to a hundred percent. Some doctors might also recommend post-care topical creams to prevent possible re-infection in the future.

After the procedure, the patient can walk out of the office and resume normal activities right away.

Possible risks and complications

Laser toenail treatment has proven to be very safe, without the risk of injuries, side effects, or other adverse reactions.

References:

• Hochman, Lisa G. “Laser treatment of onychomycosis using a novel 0.65-millisecond pulsed Nd:YAG 1064-nm laser.” Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy 13.1 Feb. 2011: 2-5.

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**Question:** What is Laser Toenail Treatment: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results?



**Answer:**



**Overview:**

Laser Toenail Treatment, also‌ known as Laser Therapy for Onychomycosis, is ‌a cutting-edge approach that utilizes laser technology to treat onychomycosis, a prevalent fungal infection of the toenails. The laser targets‍ the infected areas with precise energy, eliminating fungal growth and promoting ⁤healthy nail regrowth.



**Benefits:**



1. **Non-Invasive and Painless:** Laser toenail ⁤treatment is a non-invasive procedure that causes minimal discomfort. The laser’s heat is precisely targeted, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.



2. **Safe and Effective:** Laser therapy is regarded as a safe and effective treatment for onychomycosis. Studies have demonstrated high success rates in eradicating fungal infections and promoting nail growth.



3. **Short Treatment Duration:** Laser toenail treatment sessions are relatively brief, typically lasting only ⁤a few minutes per session. The overall treatment may span several sessions, but it usually takes less time compared⁤ to traditional antifungal treatments.



4. **Few Side Effects:** Laser therapy generally has minimal side⁣ effects. Some individuals may experience temporary warmth or redness after treatment, which usually subsides quickly.



5. **Long-Lasting Results:** Laser treatment aims to offer long-lasting results by eradicating the ⁢infection and stimulating healthy nail growth.‌ While a single treatment can produce significant improvement, multiple sessions are recommended to maintain long-term ‌benefits.



6. **Versatile ⁣Applications:** Laser toenail treatment can be ​used‌ to treat various nail conditions, including fungal infections, nail discoloration, and ‍even certain types of ⁣nail trauma. Its applications are not limited solely to toenail infections.



**Expected Results:**



1. ​**Clearer and Healthier Nails:** Successful laser treatment typically results in clearer and healthier-looking nails. The laser’s ability to eliminate fungal growth promotes the regeneration of healthy nail tissue.



2. **Reduced Thickening and Discoloration:** Laser therapy effectively addresses thickened and discolored nails caused by fungal infections.⁣ The nails gradually regain their natural appearance⁢ and texture.



3. **Improved Nail Strength and Growth:** Laser treatment stimulates nail growth and strengthens the nail matrix, leading to⁣ improved nail health and resilience. Brittle or ‌weakened nails become ‌stronger and less prone to‌ breakage.



4. **Elimination‌ of Fungal Infection:** Laser therapy‍ aims to eliminate the fungal infection at its source. Once‍ the infection is cleared, the nails can return to a healthy state.



5. ⁣**Maintenance of⁢ Results:** With proper post-treatment care, the results of laser toenail treatment can be maintained​ over time. Avoiding reinfection and maintaining good foot hygiene are crucial for long-term success.



Kindly note: The specific results of laser toenail ‍treatment can vary among individuals and​ may depend on⁢ the severity of the infection, underlying medical conditions, and adherence to post-treatment guidelines. Consulting a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis ⁣and personalized treatment plan is⁣ always recommended.