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What is toenail fungus laser treatment?

Toenail fungus laser treatment is an outpatient procedure that uses specific light wavelengths to target and destroy onychomycosis (nail fungus). The light penetrates your nail tissue, heating up the fungi underneath. 

Ultimately, the treatment kills the fungus, prevents the infection from spreading, and restores your nails to their near-original condition.

Who can benefit from toenail fungus laser treatment?

Make an appointment at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center for toenail fungus laser treatment if you have toenails that are:

  • Thick
  • Brown or yellow
  • Crumbly or ragged
  • Distorted

You might also benefit from toenail fungus laser treatment if your feet or toes smell when you remove your shoes or socks.

How do I prepare for toenail fungus laser treatment?

Toenail fungus laser treatment doesn’t require any special preparation. That said, if you have diabetes or another condition that affects blood flow to your feet, make sure to let Dr. Lewis know.

What happens during toenail fungus laser treatment?

At Southwest Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Lewis performs toenail fungus laser treatment onsite.

During treatment, she carefully runs a handheld device along the surface of your toenails. The device emits targeted laser energy that penetrates your nail tissue, targeting the fungal infection beneath. 

The lasers kill the fungus and prevent it from spreading. Once the fungus dies, your nails clear up and return to their normal, healthy state. 

Is toenail fungus laser treatment painful?

Toenail fungus laser treatment is safe and usually well-tolerated. During the procedure, you may feel a slight warming sensation, similar to mild sunburn. If you experience any pain, let Dr. Lewis know. 

How often will I need toenail fungus laser treatment?

Most people need only one toenail fungus laser treatment.* Even so, it usually takes 6-12 months for your nail to return to its original, healthy appearance. While a recurrent infection is unlikely, it can happen, making it crucial that you take care of your feet. Dr. Lewis recommends:

  • Regularly washing your hands and feet
  • Wearing shoes and socks that let your feet breathe
  • Wearing socks that absorb your sweat
  • Getting rid of old shoes
  • Wearing anti-fungal ointments or powders

Consider toenail fungus laser treatment if you have yellow, brown, or crumbly nails. Book your appointment at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center by calling the office or booking online today.

*Individual results may vary.