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Why Are My Toenails Thick and Yellow?

How Laser Therapy Cures Stubborn Fungal Infections Without Daily Pills

If you have been hiding your feet in closed-toe shoes because of unsightly, discolored toenails, you are not alone. Toenail fungus is a highly common condition, but it is notoriously difficult to treat at home.

Advanced laser therapy safely eradicates stubborn toenail fungus by using targeted light to penetrate the hard nail plate. It specifically destroys underlying fungal spores without damaging healthy tissue, offering a fast, completely painless alternative to ineffective pharmacy drops and heavy daily prescription pills.

Many patients spend years painting over the problem or wasting money on pharmacy drops, only to watch the infection spread. At New England Podiatry Associates, we know that treating the root cause of the infection requires advanced clinical tools, which is why we offer state-of-the-art laser therapy.

The Problem with Traditional Fungus Treatments

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that lives underneath the nail, not just on top of it. This creates a significant physical barrier to traditional treatments.

  • Over-the-Counter Topicals: Pharmacy drops, creams, and polishes sit on top of the nail. Because they cannotpenetrate the hard, protective keratin shield of the toenail, they fail to reach the active fungal spores hiding in the nail bed below.
  • Oral Medications: Prescription antifungal pills are much more effective than creams, but they come with significant systemic risks. Patients must take them daily for several months, and because the medication is processed through the liver, it requires regular blood tests to monitor for potential liver toxicity.

The Laser Therapy Difference: Clear Nails from the Inside Out

If you want to avoid heavy oral medications and ineffective creams, laser therapy is the modern solution.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

  • Zero Pain and No Downtime: The procedure is entirely non-invasive. Most patients feel only a gentle warming sensation during the treatment. Because there is no pain or recovery required, you can put your shoes back on and immediately return to your normal daily activities.
  • A Fast, In-Office Procedure: A typical session only takes a few minutes per foot.
  • The Growth Timeline: It is important to know that the laser does not instantly turn a yellow nail clear. Instead, it kills the underlying infection so that as your nail naturally grows out over the next several months, it grows in completely healthy, clear, and fungus-free.

Stop Hiding Your Feet!

You do not have to live with the embarrassment of thick, crumbling toenails, and you do not have to risk your overall health with months of heavy prescription pills. Clearer, healthier nails are closer than you think!

At New England Podiatry AssociatesDr. Ronald EtskovitzDr. Raymond Murano IIIDr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment.

Categories
blog Foot Health

Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails

Fungal toenails are a common problem, but we’re also happy to see our patients’ relief when we tell them about treatment options. We use the PinPointe Laser, which is an FDA-approved treatment. If you’re ready for a quick, painless way to have clear, healthy toenails, the doctors at New England Podiatry Associates are here to share about the process.

First, you will meet with a certified PinPointe provider. It will be your one-on-one consultation.

What is a fungal toenail?

When fungus gets under the toenail, patients can develop discolored, brittle toenails. Left untreated, the fungus can spread to other toes. Over time, a patient may even find it difficult to walk. This condition spreads easily, so it’s important to address the problem fast.

How much does this treatment cost?

Most treatment plans include two sessions. Depending on the number of toes treated, the total cost ranges from $600 to $1,000. Please note: If the procedure is considered only as cosmetic, insurance plans will not cover this treatment.

What if I need more than two treatment sessions?

After 3-6 months, your podiatrist will take a closer look at the toenail to see the progress. They will be looking at the clearing of the base of the new nail. If it looks like you will need additional treatment, the cost is $300 per treatment.

What is the benefit of this treatment?

PinPointe Laser Therapy is quick and painless. Each session takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Other than feeling a heat sensation during the therapy session, patients can expect a pain-free procedure. Our office handles the treatment in-house, and there is no need for anesthesia.

Please contact us to make an appointment. Call us at 617-232-1752. Our Newton-Wellesley office location is open with limited hours. Our Chestnut Hill office is open during regular business hours. If you think you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, we respectfully request that you reschedule your podiatry appointment and reach out to your primary care physician.