Nail Fungus
Nail Fungus
Onychomycosis, or nail fungus, is an infection of the toenail in which the nail changes color, thickness and quality. In addition of causing an unhealthy appearance, it can cause pain and difficulty walking.
It is recommended that patients follow a preventive care regimen to avoid reinfection:
-
Apply an antifungal cream for 2 weeks following the procedure;
-
Always spray inside the shoes at the end of the day with an antifungal spray and avoid wearing the shoes for 2 days or use Steri-Shoe ultraviolet shoe sanitizers;
-
After 2 weeks, spray the feet or fingers with anti-fungal spray on an ongoing basis;
-
Change the sheets the 1st night after each treatment;
-
Cleanse the floor of the shower before next use with a cleanser that includes bleach;
-
Cleanse all nail instruments with bleach before using them again;
-
Throw out any nail polish previously used on the nails;
-
Exercise caution in public areas like hotel rooms and public showers.
Description of Procedure:
Laser treatment for nail fungus is safe, quick and highly effective. Laser procedures for nail fungus are proven to be a much safer and effective method as compared to oral medications or topical creams. One of the key aspects of eradicating nail fungus is to achieve penetration of the laser energy into the nail bed. This area needs significant heating to ensure the fungal material is destroyed, which requires a deep-heating and powerful laser. The LightPod Neo offers patients the ideal laser for such treatment.
Indications:
The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment is primarily indicated for patients with onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the nails. It is effective for treating both toenail and fingernail infections caused by various types of fungi.
Contraindications:
The treatment may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or circumstances. Contraindications can include pregnancy, breastfeeding, open wounds or sores near the treatment area, active infections or skin conditions in the treatment area, certain medications, and a history of keloid scarring. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.
Side Effects:
The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, some possible side effects may include temporary redness, mild discomfort or warmth in the treated area, and slight swelling.
What to Expect During Treatment:
During the procedure, the patient will be seated comfortably, and the laser handpiece will be positioned over the affected nail. The laser will be activated, delivering quick pulses of energy to the nail bed. The treatment time can vary depending on the number of nails being treated and the severity of the infection.
Pain Control During Procedure:
The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment is typically well-tolerated and does not require the use of anesthesia or pain control. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Duration of Procedure:
The duration of each treatment session can vary depending on the number of nails being treated. On average, a single session can take around 20 to 30 minutes.
Recovery Time:
There is typically no downtime associated with the Aerolase NEO Laser treatment. Patients can usually resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. It is important to note that the complete healing of the affected nails may take several months, as healthy nail growth replaces the infected nails.
Typical Number of Sessions:
The number of treatment sessions required can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual's response to the treatment. Typically, multiple sessions are needed, spaced a few weeks apart. On average, patients may require three to six treatment sessions to achieve optimal results.
Expected Treatment Results:
The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment has shown promising results in treating nail fungus. However, individual results can vary. Over time, as the infected nail grows out, new healthy nail growth is expected. Improvement in the appearance of the nails can be observed gradually as the treatment progresses.
Post-Treatment Instructions:
After the treatment, it is important to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Generally, you may be advised to keep the treated area clean and dry, avoid wearing nail polish or artificial nails for a certain period, and maintain good foot hygiene. It's important to continue any prescribed antifungal medications or topical treatments as recommended.
Typical Cost:
The cost of Aerolase NEO Laser treatment for nail fungus can vary depending on factors such as the number of sessions required, the extent of the infection, the geographic location, and the healthcare provider.
It is best to consult with a clinic or healthcare professional to get an accurate estimate of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is a chemical peel?A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure performed by a licensed professional to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, or hands. It involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers to exfoliate, revealing smoother, healthier skin underneath.
-
How does a chemical peel work?The chemical solution used in a peel causes controlled damage to the skin's outer layers. This stimulates the skin to shed dead cells and prompts the body to produce new collagen and elastin, leading to a rejuvenated and more youthful appearance.
-
What skin concerns can be addressed with chemical peels?Chemical peels can help improve various skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, uneven skin tone, pigmentation issues, and mild to moderate acne.
-
Are there different types of chemical peels?Yes, chemical peels come in various types and strengths, including superficial, medium, and deep peels. The type of peel used depends on the specific skin concerns being addressed and the desired level of exfoliation.
-
How long does a chemical peel procedure take?The duration of a chemical peel procedure can vary depending on the type and depth of the peel being performed. Typically, superficial peels take about 30 minutes, while medium to deep peels may take up to an hour or more.
-
Is a chemical peel painful?Most patients experience a mild burning or stinging sensation during the procedure, which subsides relatively quickly. Deeper peels may cause more discomfort, but pain management techniques can be used to minimize any discomfort.
-
How long is the recovery period after a chemical peel?The recovery time can vary depending on the depth of the peel. Superficial peels may have little to no downtime, with some redness and peeling that usually resolves within a few days. Medium to deep peels may require a week or more of recovery time, during which the skin may be red, swollen, and peeling.
-
Are there any side effects or risks associated with chemical peels?Like any cosmetic procedure, chemical peels carry some risks, such as redness, swelling, irritation, and increased sensitivity to the sun. In rare cases, there might be complications like scarring or infection, especially with deeper peels.
-
How many sessions of chemical peels are needed to see results?The number of sessions required depends on the individual's skin condition and the type of peel used. Some people may achieve desired results with a single peel, while others might need a series of peels spaced several weeks apart for optimal results.
-
Can anyone get a chemical peel?While chemical peels are generally safe for most skin types, not everyone is a suitable candidate. People with certain skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, or recent sunburns, may need to avoid chemical peels. It's essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine if a chemical peel is right for you.