PinPointe FootLaser® Treatment For Toenail Fungus

Treating toenail fungus with a laser vs traditional treatments 

Traditional remedies for toenail fungus include topical medications and ointments, both over-the-counter and prescriptive. However, the efficacy of these preparations is limited because they usually cannot penetrate deep enough to take effect. 

Systemic medications, taken orally, use a more direct approach to address the fungus. You take the pill, the medication is absorbed into your bloodstream, and the fungus is attacked during the nail formation process. However, these medications have significant side effects; some are potentially so hazardous that constant monitoring of liver function is required.

The PinPointe Foot Laser treatment for toenail fungus is different. 

Getting rid of toenail fungus with laser therapy 

Given all the negative aspects of traditional toenail fungus treatments, it’s a huge plus that a new approach provides markedly better results than ointments or oral medication.

The Pinpointe Foot Laser treatment for toenail fungus 

UFAI utilizes the FDA-approved PinPointe laser system to eradicate toenail fungal infections. This laser treatment provides the photomechanical disruption necessary to kill the fungal colonies.

How does the PinPointe FootLaser work? 

In short, the very precise laser device of the PinPointe system can penetrate through the nail plate to kill the fungus at its source. Laser light, like that used in the PinPointe FootLaser, relies on heat to eradicate fungi and germs without harming surrounding skin or healthy tissue.

How effective is the FDA-cleared PinPointe laser surgery for toenail fungus? 

The PinPointe laser treatment is highly specialized and effective, especially compared to earlier laser systems. Clinical studies found that 70-85% of patients treated by a Pinpointe laser report significant improvement after a single treatment. Laser therapy for nail fungus has a much higher cure rate than other treatment options, like topical and oral antifungal medications. Generally, clear nail growth will appear over 6 to 12 months as the new nail grows.

It’s a more effective and safer treatment than topical ointment or orally administered medicine. The laser system does not have the same risks as oral antifungal medications. It’s so accurately targeted that there’s no adverse effect on the tissue surrounding the nail. There are no side effects or serious complications to worry about either.

What can I expect during PinPointe FootLaser treatment? 

A laser procedure with the PinPointe system usually takes less than an hour. Treating an individual nail takes only a few minutes. It does not require anesthetics or pain medication because the PinPointe system is essentially painless. Some patients report a warming sensation as the laser treats the nail.

What happens after treatment with the PinPointe laser? 

After a treatment session with the nail fungus laser, there is no necessary downtime, so you can immediately return to your ordinary activities. Nails are slow-growing, so you may not notice a visual difference immediately. Within 1-3 months, you should see clearer nail growth beginning at the base of your nails. In general, toenails take 12-18 months to grow out completely, so it could be a year before your nails look completely healthy and clear.

After laser toenail fungus removal, it’s important to take steps to reduce re-infection. This means washing footwear items with bleach or getting rid of them entirely. Being mindful of your hygiene at public places like the gym or pool can also help prevent the infection from returning. Our doctors will provide post-procedure foot care instructions on how to prevent re-infection.

Why choose University Foot and Ankle Institute for PinPointe Laser Near Me? 

The University Foot and Ankle Institute podiatrists have decades of successful experience diagnosing and treating toenail fungus. Our nationally recognized foot and ankle specialists offer the most advanced podiatric care and the highest success rates nationwide. We are leaders in researching and treating all foot and ankle conditions.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call (877) 736-6001 or visit us here to make an appointment online.

University Foot and Ankle Institute is conveniently located throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. Our foot doctors are available at locations in or near Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Sherman Oaks, Downtown Los Angeles, Westlake Village, Santa Barbara and Valencia.

Sources

Bodman MA, Syed HA, Krishnamurthy K. Onychomycosis. [Updated 2024 Jan 9]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441853/

“FDA Approves Laser Device for Treatment of Nail Fungus.” Dermatology Times, Dermatology Times, 2 Nov. 2010, www.dermatologytimes.com/view/fda-approves-laser-device-treatment-nail-fungus