What is Toenail Fungus?
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that causes your nails to change color and shape as a result of a fungal infection. While fungus can infect the nails on both your hands and feet, it’s most common in toenails.
What are the Symptoms of Nail Fungus?
You may have a fungal infection if you see one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Part of a nail that has turned white, yellow, brown, or another color
- Discoloration that spreads without treatment
- Thickening nails
- Dry, crumbly, or brittle nails that may split
- Nails that lift from the toe
- Debris that has built up beneath nails
- Foul smell from the nails
Toenail fungus is typically painless, but you should still seek treatment right away. If left untreated, fungus can spread, worsen, and cause discomfort when you wear shoes.
How Do You Treat Persistent Toenail Fungus?
When nail fungus resists antifungal medications, Dr. Latifi uses the Cutera Excel V+. This cutting-edge laser technology improved nail fungus in over 68.8% of patients whose infections resisted initial treatment with oral antifungal medications.
How Does the Cutera Excel V+ Laser Work?
The Cutera Excel V+ laser sends light energy set to a specific wavelength into your skin, which clears the infection without damaging healthy tissue.
If you’re concerned about pain, don’t worry. The Cutera Excel V+ is world-renowned as one of the most gentle lasers available and causes no serious side effects. In addition to eliminating nail fungus, this laser is a popular option for hair removal, skin tightening, and other cosmetic procedures.
What Should I Expect From a Laser Nail Fungus Treatment?
First, Dr. Latifi performs an exam and reviews your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for toenail fungus treatment with the Cutera Excel V+ laser.
During treatment, Dr. Latifi uses a specialized handpiece to direct laser energy into the infected toenail. Each session lasts about 20 minutes, but you may need multiple treatments to completely clear the fungal infection.
You notice results as healthy nail replaces the infected tissue over the next several weeks.
To find out if Cutera Excel V+ laser toenail fungus treatment is right for you, call or book an appointment with a podiatrist online today.