Nail Fungus, Pills, and Lasers...

Nail fungus?

Drs. Rockmore and Horling use a comprehensive approach to kill your fungus infection. Why? Drs. Rockmore and Horling realize that the reason that no single treatment is 100% effective is that the infection is dependent on several factors. Treatments need to be tailored to the individual. 

We will examine you to discover the reason for your nail fungal infection. We may also do testing on your nail to determine which treatments may be effective.

What are the treatments for Nail Fungus?

The most commonly used treatments are:

• Debridement
• Topical Medications
• Oral Medications
• Laser
• Nail Removal

Our Experience with Lasers:

Over the last ten years as surgeons, we have used various types of lasers to assist in the treatment of skin and nail disorders.

This laser will not harm healthy tissue and is not painful.  Each session treats 4 toes and requires 16 minutes.    If you have nail fungus on all of the toes on the right foot only, 2 sessions are needed and that will take 32 minutes. The Noveon Laser research shows that each session should be performed two more times during a 2 month period for best results.

How we treat nail fungus...

We have a full arsenal of treatments, often starting with the conventional FDA approved treatments. We examine and diagnose with laboratory testing when indicated. If your fungus has not responded to the usual treatments, or if you prefer not to use pills with potential side effects, we offer the laser as a safe alternative.  However, our highest success rates are when we combine LASER with other modalities.

How does the laser work?
The Laser kills the fungus that lives in and under the toenail. The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin. At the time of the procedure, the toenail will not become instantly clear, it takes time to grow out.

What are the success rates?
Success rates are good, most show improvement at 6 months. Thicker nails have lower success rates and may need a second treatment. Remember, even the FDA approved pills for this condition have success rates of 55% to 72%.

What can I expect in the doctor's office?
A fifteen-minute consultation with your doctor is performed the first visit to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. If another nail disease is suspected, a sample may be sent to the lab for confirmation. Other options will be reviewed as well.

Is the laser toenail procedure painful?
No. Most people feel no pain from the laser. Some people feel a warming sensation. Occasionally a pinprick sensation.

Is there a recovery period?
No. Just walk in and walk out. However, the nail has to grow out and you need to follow aftercare instructions.

Will the toenail fungus come back?
The doctor recommends care techniques to reduce the recurrence of the infection. There is a chance of reinfection because the fungus is present everywhere in the environment.

When can I paint my nails or have a pedicure?
You can apply polish immediately after the Laser treatment. We do not recommend that you leave it on for long periods of time. It is important to remove all nail polish and nail decorations the day before your treatment.

How do I pay for the Laser treatment?
Credit cards, cash and money orders are all accepted. You may also use your Medical IRA, Health Savings or Flexible Spending Account.

Is the Laser procedure covered by my insurance?
If you have a Health Savings Account or Medical IRA, 100% of the cost can be covered. However, in most situations, health insurance plans do not provide coverage.

The laser fee varies based on the severity of toenails involved. The total cost (from start to finish) starts at $550 for patients with limited nail involvement on less than 5 toes, more for patients that have involvement of 5 or more nails.