INTRODUCING PinPointe™ LASER TREAMENT
Mercer Island Foot & Ankle is pleased to announce that we are now a provider of PinPointe™ FootLaser™, a leading light-based technology for the temporary increase of clear nail in patients with onychomycosis, or nail fungus.
Fungal nail infection is estimated to affect more than 10 percent of the global population, and 36 million Americans. The condition can be passed between family members if left untreated.
PinPointe™ is the only laser available today that is designed specifically to treat nail fungus. During the treatment, the laser light gently heats the fungus without causing damage to the surrounding area – there is no recovery time and you can return immediately to your normal routine and activities.
"For patients, PinPointe™ offers new hope to those who suffer from onychomycosis."
If you would like to know more about our new treatment for nail fungus, or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at 206-275-9117 or click here to schedule an appointment.
Treatment options for fungal nails can also be addressed through topical medication to the nail itself or oral medication.
During a consultation, Dr. Mak will evaluate your condition and work with you to determine a treatment plan with which you are comfortable.
After an initial consultation, if you are a candidate for laser treatment and choose this option, the following office visits will be for:
SECOND VISIT - Nails are prepared by thinning (debridement/filing) and the laser treatment is preformed. Home care treatment is confirmed.
THIRD VISIT - 3 months after the first laser treatment, nails are again thinned and a 2nd laser treatment performed.
LAST VISIT - 6 months after first laser treatment for a final laser treatment.
PHOTOS - Pre and post-treatment photos of your feet will be taken for your medical file to document the progression of your care.
HOMECARE - Successful homecare is also an important component of your treatment plan as patients with a history of fungal infections are predisposed to re-infection.
Easy care solutions will be recommended for your continued success of having fungal free toenails!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Results are seen as new growth progresses and successful homecare is maintained.
Treatment costs: $795 for 3 treatments over a six month timeframe.
Insurance coverage: At this time, the majority of insurance providers do not cover laser treatment if it is seen as aesthetic. However, initial consultations finding thick, painful and/or fungal nails may be covered by your insurance. We accept major credit cards, Flexible Spending Account credit cards or personal checks.
PinPointe™ FAQ
How does the PinPointe™ FootLaser work?
PinPointe™ FootLaser uses laser light to target the fungus that lives in and under the nail. As the
laser passes through the nail, the fungus is heated, without causing damage to the nail or the
surrounding skin. Although the infection is treated, the nail will not become instantly clear.
Improvement in the nail appearance is seen as the nail grows out in about 4-6 months.
What can I expect before the treatment?
Your doctor will bring you in for a consultation to explain the PinPointe™ procedure, patient
expectations, pre- and post- treatment protocol and any follow-up visits that may be required.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience no pain or discomfort during the PinPointe™ treatment. Some patients
may feel a warming sensation and an isolated few may feel a slight pinprick.
Is there a recovery period?
No. The PinPointe™ treatment is a quick outpatient procedure. You can return to your normal
activities immediately.
How long does the procedure take?
The PinPointe™ procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to treat all ten toes.
Will the fungus grow back?
PinPointe™ treatment results are temporary and due to the contagious nature of nail fungus,
reinfection is possible. Your doctor will recommend post treatment care to help reduce a
recurrence of the infection.
When is it safe to paint my nails following treatment?
You can apply polish immediately after the treatment. It is important that you remove all nail
polish the day before your PinPointe™ treatment.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
This procedure is considered aesthetic and therefore health insurance does not provide
coverage. Many offices accept HSA, Medical IRA, or Flexible Spending Account to cover the cost of the procedure.
How long has the PinPointe™ FootLaser been in use?
Clinical studies for the treatment of onychomycosis with PinPointe™ began in November 2007.
Is the PinPointe™ FootLaser FDA cleared?
Yes. In fact, PinPointe™ was the first laser device to receive FDA clearance for the temporary improvement in clear nail growth.