A New Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition estimated to affect up to 10% of the population worldwide. It can cause nails to become yellow or discolored. As the infection advances the nail can become thick, brittle and separate from the nail bed. It can also cause pain when wearing shoes or walking.
Cutera’s GenesisPlus is a laser that has been cleared by the FDA to be both a safe and effective solution for the treatment of nail infection (onychomycosis). Laser treatments are effective in eliminating nail infections and restoring clear nails. This laser is also safe and effective for scar reduction and warts.
Laser light from GenesisPlus passes through the nail and the surrounding tissue. The laser light is absorbed by pigment in the fungi, which causes the pigment to heat, and this heat kills or damages the fungal organism. This can result in your nail growing normally.
What can you expect?
Treatment Session Time – A single treatment session takes approximately 40 minutes to treat 5-10 nails. Treatment times will vary.
Number of Treatments – Most patients show improvement after one treatment. The required number of treatments will vary depending on how severely each digit is infected.
Before the Procedure – It is important to remove all nail polish and decorations the day before the procedure.
During the Procedure – Most patients describe the procedure as being comfortable with a small hot pinch at the end that resolves quickly.
After the Procedure – Immediately following the procedure your nail may feel warm for a few minutes. The majority of patients can resume normal activities immediately.
Long Term – If the treatment is successful, as the nail grows you will see new, healthy nail. Nails grow slowly, so it may take up to 12 months to see an entirely clear nail.