Fungus

Advanced Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

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For years, people have been frustrated by toenail fungus. The nail discoloration makes it almost impossible for those who suffer from it to freely enjoy certain activities without feeling self-conscious about exposing their feet in public. As the fungus progresses, the nail thickens and becomes damaged causing more problems to the sufferer. Up until now, the treatments for this problem have been rather unsatisfactory.

Concerns with Topical and Oral Medications
Patients have long had the option of topical medications. The basic idea is that the patient applies the anti-fungal once or twice a day to the affected area until the nail grows out and then, hopefully, the fungus will have disappeared. Messy and unproductive, this method rarely offers patients any kind of relief. The oral medication is certainly easier and slightly more effective, but the danger it causes to the liver makes this choice hardly worth the risk. It is also contra-indicated for patients taking cholesterol medication or Tylenol products.

State-of-the-Art Laser Treatment
I received so many requests for help from my patients that I decided to investigate which new procedure would be the most beneficial and effective for treating this problem. My search led me to a safer and much more successful way to eradicate nail fungus: laser treatment, which destroys the fungus by a combination of ultraviolet light energy and heat produced by light. My research led me, specifically, to—what I consider to be a state-of-the art laser—the Sciton ClearSense laser developed by Drs. Hobart and Negis PhDs. Their company, formed in 1997, has undertaken the advancement of the treatment of nail fungus with the same determination that made Sciton the worldwide leader in cosmetic lasers.

High Rate of Success
About 20 months ago, I started using this remedy with a success rate of 70% to 80% with three treatments. I use the protocol developed at Stanford University, using the Sciton laser with the ClearSense hand piece which gives real-time feedback, allowing me to give my patients the best results. Noticeable changes begin after about three months, it then takes about a year—the approximate time for the nail to grow fully out—to see complete relief.

How the Process Works
The process of starting the treatment begins with a consultation and evaluation in my office. I will review what treatments are available and which one will be best for the situation. The best candidates for the laser process are those with mild to moderate nail fungus. If the nail fungus is severe, other treatments are available. Since multiple treatments are necessary, after the initial treatment, a return visit is scheduled within two to three weeks, and a follow-up is scheduled after three months. Again, the growth process of a nail is slow, so it can take three months to see any progress after the first laser treatment.

Whether you previously or currently suffer from this ailment, you know how difficult and unsuccessful previous treatments have been for you. Many people have found this new laser treatment to be incredibly effective; even better, these people no longer face the embarrassment that comes with toenail fungus.

The Expertise of a Podiatrist
Podiatrists are the foremost authorities on treatment of medical problems of the foot and ankle. Our practice treats problems of the foot and ankle with advanced techniques such as Shockwave, Platelet Rich Plasma Injection (PRP) and Laser Nail Fungus treatments. The following includes some common conditions we also diagnose and treat:

  • Heel Pain
  • Bunions
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Plantar Warts
  • Hammertoes
  • Morton’s Neuroma

We Can Help!
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Bembynista by calling his main number at 816-461-7755, or visit our website at www.kcfootcare.com. Offices are conveniently located in Overland Park, KS, Independence, MO and Kansas City, on Barry Road and south Kansas City.