One of the most effective ways to treat fungal nails or onychomycosis is by laser treatment that directly addresses the problem at the nails. Dr.Syamak Yamini located in Porter Ranch, Encino, and Los Angeles, uses the FDA-approved, clinically effective PinPointe™ FootLaser® to treat toenail fungal infections.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, or more formally known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that occurs underneath the surface of the nails and can be caused by a wide range of fungi types. Fungi are very small organisms, also known microorganisms, that can take hold of the nail and cause discoloration, thickening, and sometimes foul smells.
What is the impact of toenail fungus?
Aside from the unsightly discoloration and thickening of the nails that could be limiting your footwear selection, toenail fungus could impact your quality of life by causing unnecessary pain and discomfort. In addition, for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or auto-immune diseases, toenail fungal infections can cause serious health problems.
What is the PinPointe™ FootLaser and how does it work?
The PinPointe™ FootLaser is an FDA-approved laser treatment option for toenail fungus that kills the fungus that lives in and under the nail. The PinPointe laser machine delivers light energy to heat and damage the infecting cells without causing any damage to the nail or the surrounding skin.
What can I expect during my visits?
During your first visit, Dr. Syamak Yamini located in Porter Ranch, Encino, and Los Angeles will provide a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, explain the laser procedure, and perform the laser treatment if you choose. Follow-up visits may be required for further laser treatment to fully eliminate the fungal infection.
How long does the procedure take?
The laser treatment takes 15-20 minutes.
Is The procedure Painful?
The procedure itself is not painful, however, some patients occasionally feel warmth around the area on the nail where the laser is being applied.
Is there a recovery period?
No, you can return to your normal daily activities after treatment. The treatment is a walk-in/walk-out procedure and there are no post-treatment guidelines that you have to follow.
When is it safe to get a pedicure after laser treatment?
Nails polish can be applied immediately after treatment. However, it is important that all your nail polish be removed before your treatment.
Will the fungus grow back?
The infection improves after one round of laser treatment and usually touch-ups are required every 4-6 weeks to completely get rid of the fungal infection. However, even after the infection has been completely cleared, there is a chance of reinfection since the fungus is present everywhere in the environment.
How does laser treatment compare to topical and oral anti-fungal medication?
Clinical research studies have shown that laser treatment options have a higher cure rate than topical treatments, which have a 20% cure rate, while oral medications have a 40% cure rate. In addition laser treatment has no risks or side effects, such as liver damage, that can be seen with oral medications since the laser only affects the fungus that is infection your toenails.
Dr. Syamak Yamini located in Porter Ranch, Encino, and Los Angeles can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your fungal toenails and effective treatment options such as laser treatment.
