Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI

Toenail fungus is stubborn — and the drugstore solutions rarely cure it. Laser therapy is a modern option that targets the fungus directly, with no medication side effects and no downtime. Here’s how it works and when it’s the right choice.

How laser treatment works

The laser passes light energy through the nail to heat and destroy the fungal organisms in the nail bed, while leaving the nail and surrounding skin intact. As the nail grows out over the following months, healthy, clear nail replaces the damaged portion. It’s painless (most patients feel only mild warmth) and takes just minutes per session.

Who it’s a good fit for

• Patients who can’t take or don’t want oral antifungal pills (e.g., due to liver concerns or drug interactions)
• Fungus that hasn’t responded to topical treatments
• Anyone wanting a no-medication, no-downtime approach

We’ll confirm the diagnosis first — not every discolored or thick nail is fungus (trauma, psoriasis, and other conditions can look identical), and treating the wrong thing wastes time.

Best results come from a complete plan

Laser works best combined with: professional debridement (thinning/trimming the nail so treatment reaches the fungus), good footwear and moisture control, disinfecting shoes, and sometimes a topical antifungal. Because nails grow slowly, full clearance takes several months and may need more than one session. We’ll set realistic expectations up front.

Why see a podiatrist for this?

We diagnose accurately, debride the nail for better results, and combine therapies for the best chance of clearance — and for diabetic patients, we manage fungal nails safely to prevent complications. (See toenail fungus treatment.)

Why patients choose Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin are board-certified and rated 4.9 stars by Michigan patients on Google. We’re honest about what laser can and can’t do, and we tailor the plan so you get the best realistic result.

Visit us — two Michigan offices

Balance Foot & Ankle — Howell
4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843
Livingston County · (810) 206-1402
Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–4:30 PM · Free on-site parking

Balance Foot & Ankle — Bloomfield
43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Oakland County · (810) 206-1402
Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–4:30 PM · Serving Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy & West Bloomfield

Ask about laser toenail treatment →

Frequently asked questions

Does laser treatment for toenail fungus hurt?

It’s essentially painless — most patients feel only a mild warming sensation. There’s no anesthesia and no downtime; you can return to normal activity right away.

Is toenail fungus laser treatment covered by insurance?

Laser nail treatment is often considered cosmetic and may not be covered, while the diagnosis and other treatments usually are. We tell you the cost and your options up front.

What’s the difference between athlete’s foot and toenail fungus?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin (itching, scaling, often between the toes); toenail fungus affects the nail itself (thickening, discoloration, crumbling). They’re related and can occur together, but are treated differently.

Can toenail fungus spread to other nails or other people?

Yes — it can spread to other nails, the skin, and to others via shared floors, footwear, or tools. Treating it and using good foot hygiene reduces spread.

Do OTC treatments actually work for toenail fungus?

Over-the-counter products rarely cure established nail fungus because they don’t penetrate the nail well. Professional options — including laser, prescription topicals, and oral antifungals — work far better, ideally with debridement.

Do I need a referral?

No — podiatrists are direct-access providers in Michigan, so you can book directly even if your plan usually requires a referral.