A fungal toenail infection occurs when a fungus, such as yeast or mold, attacks a toenail or underneath the skin. Most nail infections are caused by the same type of fungus that can cause athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is a rash on the skin of your foot characterized with itching, peeling or cracking on the bottom of feet and in-between toes. Left untreated, any of these fungal infections can worsen. While there are numerous over-the-counter treatments available for mild cases, many infections do not dissipate without seeking medical attention. At Foot First Podiatry Centers, we’ve created an innovative, thorough treatment plan to relieve nail or skin infections for patients of all ages, providing you with the most optimal results possible.
Our treatment plan includes laser ablation of the fungus, the most effective topical anti-fungals, and/or possible oral use of Terbinafine. The Foot First team will assess your unique condition before suggesting what combination of laser, topical or oral treatment is best for you. Whatever treatment is decided upon, the results are visibly impressive.
Regardless of your mild or severe case, a fungal infection is rarely cured but rather it is managed so that the patient maintains aesthetically pleasing, pain-free feet. In other words, much like conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, fungus infections are monitored and controlled with “patience and compliance:” Patience – meaning the treatment will take up to a year until all desired results are reached; Compliance – meaning the patient must carefully follow all post-operative instructions for applying topical treatments and/or taking oral treatments.
How does laser ablation work?
The laser kills the fungus that lives in and around the toenail. At the time of the procedure, the toenail will not become instantly clear. In fact, it may look worse after the procedure. Please note that it takes time to grow out, typically six months to one year.
The laser kills the fungus that lives in and around the toenail. At the time of the procedure, the toenail will not become instantly clear. In fact, it may look worse after the procedure. Please note that it takes time to grow out, typically six months to one year.
Usually, one laser treatment per foot is needed. However, in severe cases, a second or third treatment may be required. The patient is typically seen monthly for follow-up care during the yearlong recovery.
FOOT NOTE: The nails will typically look worse before they look better. On occasion, the whole nail is removed. This is when patience will be needed; typically, results may take up to three months before they start to become visible. It is also important to note that there is always chance of recurrence. This is when compliance will be needed; administering all topical or oral treatments according to direction is required for results to be maintained.
Are there side effects to taking Terbinafine?
Like all oral treatments, there are possible side effects to consider. Most possible side effects are minimal or rare but I always suggest patients Google side effects and let me know if they have any questions or concerns.
Like all oral treatments, there are possible side effects to consider. Most possible side effects are minimal or rare but I always suggest patients Google side effects and let me know if they have any questions or concerns.
What are my out-of-pocket costs?
Most insurance companies view this type of laser procedure as cosmetic. The average pricing is $1000 for both feet. If a second treatment is needed, the cost will be $500 for that second treatment. The initial cost for topical treatments sold by Foot First Podiatry Centers will be approximately $140. Refills are expected throughout the year, and can range from $45 - $140, depending on what you are refilling. All of this said, in some cases, if your nails are painful or ingrown, your insurance may cover this procedure and you will be responsible for your co-pay, deductible, and co-insurance.
Most insurance companies view this type of laser procedure as cosmetic. The average pricing is $1000 for both feet. If a second treatment is needed, the cost will be $500 for that second treatment. The initial cost for topical treatments sold by Foot First Podiatry Centers will be approximately $140. Refills are expected throughout the year, and can range from $45 - $140, depending on what you are refilling. All of this said, in some cases, if your nails are painful or ingrown, your insurance may cover this procedure and you will be responsible for your co-pay, deductible, and co-insurance.
For optimal relief for your fungal nails & skin infections, call us at Foot First at 847-352-9221. We have eight office locations to serve you. We will be happy to examine your feet, assess your own, unique condition and offer our suggestions for treatment. At Foot First, we offer visible results you will see.
Take a look at our video below for further detail of our fungal nails, skin and athlete's foot treatments, along with recent before and after results.
