| 2560 Hauser-Ross Drive Sycamore, IL 60178 (815) 899-3338 |
54 W. Countryside Pkwy Yorkville, IL 60560 (630) 553-4855 |
Fungal Laser Procedure
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Laser Fungal Toe Nail F.A.Q.s
The Physicians at Tina Starkweather D.P.M. & Associates, PC are specialists in fungal toenail treatment, including the state-of-the-art laser procedure, toenail surgery, remodeling of nail beds, severe fungal toenail treatment and much more.
- Quick in-office procedure
- Safe & Effective
- Virtually Painless
- No Down Time From Your Regular Activities
- Alternative to Prescription Medications
Why do patients choose us for Laser fungal toenail treatment?
We offer the newest laser technology in the treatment of fungal toenails. Our podiatrists are experts for the laser treatment of toenail fungus.
Our team of podiatrists takes great pride in their work and has a very high attention to detail. Our physicians will take the time necessary to answer your questions and perform a detailed laser treatment. Our podiatrists will personally perform your laser treatment and in addition they will carefully monitor your progress with 1 and 6 month check-ups and retreat the infected nails durring the 1 and 6 month check-ups as needed.
Our office staff is friendly and accommodating. We are here to provide you with outstanding customer service. Our office is committed to providing thorough and comprehensive treatment for severe fungal toenails and other foot and ankle problems.
I have one infected toenail why should I treat it?
Toenail fungus is highly contagious and eventually all the toenails will likely become infected. As the infection spreads to neighboring toenails it is increasingly difficult to treat the problem. Eventually that single infected toenail will likely turn into ten thickened discolored (dark or yellow) toenails.
We will treat all the toenails on the affected foot, whether or not there are visible signs of the fungal infection in the other toenails.
Post Treatment Pre Treatment
Post Treatment Pre Treatment
How does the laser work?
The laser kills the fungus that lives in and under the toenail. The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin. At the time of the procedure, the toenail will not become instantly clear, it takes time for the nail to grow out. (Nails grow at an average rate of 0.1 mm/day (1 cm every 100 days) [1]. Fingernails require 4 to 6 months to regrow completely. Toenails require approximately 12 months. Actual growth rate is dependent upon age, season, exercise level, and hereditary factors.)
Is this laser painful?
No. No anesthesia and no injections are required. Most people feel no pain. People feel a warming sensation. The laser does not harm or damage healthy tissue.
Does it really work?
Yes. One treatment kills the fungus for most people. Clinical studies started in 2007 reveal 88% of the treated patients grew out a normal looking nail after one treatment. After the one treatment, most nail plate begin to grow out normally, in 6-12 months if there is a healthy nail bed. In severe cases a second or third treatment may be recommended. This result is better than the success rate for anti-fungal medications, which are taken for three or four months with some risks and side effects. Your doctor will determine if you need additional follow-up care.
Is this treatment safe?
Yes! In clinical studies there have been NO adverse reactions, injuries, disabilities or known side-effects associated with laser treatment. Unlike oral medications on the market today for fungal toenails, there are NO risks to the liver or kidneys. There are no age or health restrictions or limitations.
Can the laser be used on Children?
Yes, we routinely treat both children and adults. There is no age restriction. The procedure is painless.
What have clinical trials proven?
Clinical and medical studies have demonstrated the laser treatment of toenail fungus up to 88% effective.
Is there a recovery period?
No. The treatment does not harm you in any way. You will be able to put on your shoes and walk out of the office, just as well as you walked in. If you have any problems or questions, contact our office immediately.
How long does the treatment take?
The amount of time varies on the degree of involvement of the nails. Very thick nails are mechanically reduced without pain to a more normal thickness with specialized equipment. The laser light is then applied to the nails which typically takes 20-30 minutes. Overall a typical visit for consultation and treatment will take anywhere between 30 minutes to 40 minutes.
Can I apply polish to the nails immediately after treatment?
Yes. You can apply polish to the nails immediately after the treatment. However, it is important to thoroughly remove all nail polish and nail decorations the day before your treatment. Our office will provide you a antifungal nail polish to use as part of our preventative kit.
Can the fungus return, or not go away?
The fungal infection is expected to improve with just one treatment. Clinical reports to date have demonstrated effectiveness with approximately 80% to 90% of patients noticing significant improvement. As with all medical procedures, a 100% guarantee is not possible. In addition, since fungus is present everywhere in the environment, reinfection can occur. Your doctor can recommend preventative strategies to reduce the chance of reinfection.
What can I expect in the doctor’s office?
A consultation with your doctor, the procedure to be performed and any follow-up visits as prescribed by your doctor.
Does my insurance pay for this?
Your initial evaluation and follow-up visits will be billed to your insurance company. Because the laser procedure is considered aesthetic, health insurance plans do not cover the procedure. Our office accepts major credit cards, money orders, certified checks and has several financing options available. You may also use your Medical IRA, Health Savings or Flexible Spending Account.
Why haven't I heard about this before?
This is NEW laser technology and has only recently become available to the public since late 2008. Tina Starkweather DPM & Associates, PC has been evaluating the procedure and different lasers for over two years and now is one of the first to offer this new technology in the Greater Chicagoland area and havre succesfully treated hundreds of patients.
