FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR COLD LASER FUNGAL NAIL THERAPY

Please read our FAQs below to find out more about our cold laser treatment for fungal nail infections. If your question is not answered here, please call us on 07 4942 5016 and our friendly team is ready to answer your queries.

1. How much does it cost to have the cold laser treatment for fungal toenails?

During your first visit, we'll check your nails to see if this treatment is right for you. We use the laser only if there's a confirmed infection. If you have a fungal infection, we may recommend laser treatment. We'll explain the process and how many sessions you may need based on the infection type and severity.

Treatment may require 2 to 8 sessions based on different factors. Each session costs $107, or $94 for concessions, with weekly appointments. Certain health funds may cover laser treatments; if so, we can use code (014).

2. What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please arrive 15 minutes early for your first visit to complete the paperwork. Remember to bring new socks to avoid reinfection. Remove nail polish before treatment and don't apply until all treatments are done. Dispose of current nail polish to prevent fungal contamination.

3. How likely is the cold laser to work to fix my fungal toenail?

We see success rates of 80% to 90% in patients who complete the full treatment, including following all reinfection and hygiene instructions. This treatment is offered if a fungal infection is confirmed, and if we believe you will comply with additional requirements like daily terbinafine spray and good footwear hygiene. Not following instructions usually leads to poor results.

4. Can the toenail get another fungal infection at a later date?

Yes. Fungal spores that cause nail infections are common and easily spread. It's smart to treat everyone at home if they have these infections. After your infection clears up, we will give you tips to avoid getting it again. If you suspect the infection is coming back, schedule a follow-up with your podiatrist.

5. What does the cold laser feel like?

The cold laser treatment may cause slight tingling sensations but does not lead to heat or pain.

6. Are there any side effects of cold laser?

No. Extensive studies have shown no known undesirable side effects of cold laser.

7. Can you guarantee that cold laser will work for me? I’ve tried all or many of the other treatments with no results.

When it comes to fungal toenail infections, trying different medications and creams may not bring much improvement. Our patients often face this situation. Comparing treatments, topical options show success rates of 5.5% to 8.5%, and oral medications range from 14% to 50% but might have reoccurrences up to 53%. Lunula Cold Laser treatments have shown success rates of 83% to 97% after 4 sessions. While we can't ensure 100% success due to reinfection risks, this is our most effective treatment for fungal toenail infections.

8. What else needs to happen other than the cold laser sessions?

During your appointment, your podiatrist will trim the nail to remove the infected and thick parts before using laser treatment to kill the fungus. We recommend spraying your nails daily with terbinafine to prevent the fungus from coming back while receiving treatment.

9. Will I need anaesthetic for the treatment?

No, however, the treatment may occasionally result in a sensation of warmth or mild discomfort. It is important to communicate any concerns about your comfort level with your podiatrist during the procedure.

10. Is there anyone that can't be treated with Cold Laser?

No research is currently testing the use of Low-level laser therapy on pregnant patients. Although there are no known risks for pregnant women, we recommend waiting until after pregnancy to start this treatment.

11. Should my family members get treated too?

It is a good idea to have other household members checked, as infections can very easily spread from person to person. If a family member has similar symptoms or appearance in their toenails, we advise having them come in for an assessment.

12. Do I need to have time off work or not participate in any activities?

No, there’s no need to avoid any activities. Just go straight back out at it!

13. What should I be doing at home to prevent reoccurrence?

We will give you all the necessary information to enable you to prevent reinfection at home. The most important steps are sanitising footwear, socks, and surfaces such as showers.