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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.

 

Laser treatment for nail fungus is safe, quick and highly effective.  Most patients are able to be clear of their infection with only one or two treatments.  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. After the treatment, patients are able to resume their daily activities as normal.

 

Results are not immediate, as it takes anywhere from 3-12 months for the new, non-infected nail to grow.  It is recommended that patients follow a preventive care regiment to avoid reinfection:

 

  1. Apply an antifungal cream for 2 weeks following the procedure;

  2. 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;

  3. After 2 weeks, spray the feet or fingers with anti-fungal spray on an ongoing basis;

  4. Change the sheets the 1st night after each treatment;

  5. Cleanse the floor of the shower before next use with a cleanser that includes bleach;

  6. Cleanse all nail instruments with bleach before using them again;

  7. Throw out any nail polish previously used on the nails;

  8. Exercise caution in public areas like hotel rooms and public showers.

 

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The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment is a procedure used for treating nail fungus (onychomycosis). Here's a description of the procedure, indications, contraindications, side effects, what to expect during treatment, the need for pain control, duration of the procedure, recovery time, typical number of sessions required, expected treatment results, post-treatment instructions, typical cost, and frequently asked questions:

Procedure Description:
The Aerolase NEO Laser treatment involves the use of a specialized laser system that emits a high-intensity light energy. This laser energy is targeted at the affected nail and its surrounding tissue. The laser energy penetrates the nail, targeting the fungus and destroying it without causing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.

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 Required:
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:
1. Is the Aerolase NEO Laser treatment painful?
   The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.

2. How long does it take to see results?
   Visible improvement in the appearance of the nails can be seen gradually over several months as the new healthy nail grows out.

3. Are the results permanent?
   The treatment can help eliminate the fungal infection, but it's important to maintain good foot hygiene to prevent future reinfection.

4. Can I wear nail polish after the treatment?
   Your healthcare professional will provide specific instructions, but it's typically recommended to avoid nail polish or artificial nails for a certain period after the treatment.

5. Can the treatment be used for other conditions?
   While the Aerolase NEO Laser treatment is primarily used for nail fungus, it may have other applications depending on the specific laser system used. Consult with a healthcare professional for information on other treatment options.

Remember, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist to assess your specific condition, determine if you are a suitable candidate for the Aerolase NEO Laser treatment, and receive personalized recommendations.

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