The presence of nail fungus (or so-called onychomycosis) is an infection that changes the appearance and texture of the nail. This is a persistent condition that is difficult to treat and can significantly affect your lifestyle. If you suffer from nail fungus and want to be cured of them once and for all, trust the specialists by undergoing laser treatment.
What is the laser treatment of onychomycosis?
There are several types of laser treatment options: those that use light and those that use carbon dioxide (CO2). The laser emits energy that produces heat. When used to treat onychomycosis, the laser is aimed so that heat will penetrate the nail to the nail bed where the fungus is located.
For this type of processing, a CO2 laser or a YAG laser with wavelengths of 870 nm, 930 nm or 1320 nm are used to increase the localized temperature. In response to heat, the infected tissue is gasified and decomposed, destroying the fungus. The heat from the laser also has a sterilizing effect. This prevents the possibility of a new infection.
Is the procedure effective?
Thanks to laser therapy, most people experience noticeable improvement and a high degree of healing. Fungal nail infections usually require several laser treatment sessions before they are completely resolved. It can take between six and 18 months of sequential treatment for laser therapy to be effective.
What to expect from the procedure?
Just before your procedure, your foot will be cleaned with a sterile solution and placed in an accessible place to guide the laser. The laser will be maneuvered on all affected nails and can even be used on unaffected nails if there are concerns that a fungal infection may develop there as well.
Laser pulsation or the use of selected wavelengths helps to minimize heat on the skin, which reduces the risk of side effects. A session usually lasts 30 minutes or less.
Signs of improvement
While some people experience significant improvement after the first session, others may need several procedures before they start noticing results. Keep in mind that it can take up to 12 months for a healthy nail to grow.
Signs of improvement include:
– The disappearance of yellow, white or brown discoloration of the affected toenails;
– Restoration of onycholysis: separation of the nail from the nail bed;
– Normal shape and texture of nail growth without more thickness, bumps or change in shape.