Q-Clear Laser System
What can be treated with Q-Clear Laser Therapy?
Fungal toenail and stubborn warts
Why is a laser used to treat fungal toenails?
The Q-Clear laser system is an FDA approved treatment of fungal nails and a variety of other conditions. According to studies, this laser is highly effective in improving discolored and deformed nails due to fungal and other infections. Clinical use has demonstrate laser therapy to be significantly more effective at clearing the nails than topical or oral medications alone. There are no significant side effects associated with this treatment.
How does it work?
The Q-Clear laser system targets the fungus that is disrupting the growth of health nails without damaging the healthy tissues surrounding the toenail. This is achieved by the use of a high intensity burst of light that passes through the nail plate without causing harm to the underlying skin. At the time of treatment, no visible results are seen. As the nail grows out, a more normal nail appears. Sometimes improvement can be seen within a few months, however complete regrowth of a healthy nail can sometimes take up to a year.
Is any pre-treatment preparation required?
All nail polish should be removed prior to treatment. It is important to have all nails as clean and clear as possible. Please bring an extra pair of clean socks with you to wear after your treatment session.
Is there a recovery period after treatment?
In almost all instances, no recovery time is required. All activities can be resumed immediately and you can even apply nail polish immediately after the treatment session. Depending on the severity of your fungal infection, the use of topical anti-fungal medication may be recommended. It is important to keep shoes disinfected and dry after therapy to prevent re-infection.
Does it hurt?
Most patients undergoing treatment experience no pain at all. You may experience a slight warmth or an occasional "snapping" sensation during the procedure. If you experience any discomfort, let us know immediately. We can adjust the laser to a more comfortable setting. No anesthesia is required for this treatment.
How long does the procedure take?
The time for treatment is dependent on how many toenails are affected and the degree of involvement of the fungal infection. Extremely thick nails may need mechanically debrided to maintain normal thickness prior to the procedure. A consultation prior to therapy may take up to 30 minutes and the treatment itself often does not take more than a few minutes.
How many treatments area needed?
Most often, one treatment is sufficient to produce a more healthy appearing nail. Depending on severity, additional treatments may be needed. Observation and retreatment, if necessary, may be needed at 3 month intervals. It is important to take care to prevent reinfection after treatment.
Is it possible for the nail not to improve?
The nail is expected to improve with just one treatment, however as with all medical procedures, there is no 100% guarantee. Continued hygiene to prevent reinfection as well as other measures including foot soaks, topical medications and nail supplements are also available in our office to ensure that you have the best chance for success.
Is laser treatment covered by health insurance?
Laser nail therapy is unfortunately not covered by health insurance. Please contact the staff at Sole Solutions Podiatry for pricing information as our packages do vary by the number of toenails being treated. The quoted price includes the initial session as well as a "touch up" session 3 months later. We also accept CareCredit to make this treatment available to help as many patients as we can.