Nail Laser for Nail Fungus

Diagnosis first, then treatment

Not every nail change is a fungus – nail psoriasis or the after-effects of an injury can look similar but need different treatment. Before starting treatment we confirm the diagnosis with a nail sample; this is covered by statutory health insurance.

Our approach: combining laser and medication

The long-wavelength light of the Nd:YAG laser penetrates the nail plate and damages the fungal structures in the nail bed by heat – where lacquers often do not reach. Ideally, however, we do not use the laser on its own but in combination with medical therapy (tablets or an antifungal lacquer): the two approaches attack the fungus by different routes and complement each other. A recent meta-analysis shows that laser therapy is comparable in effectiveness to tablet therapy and is well tolerated – combining the two approaches uses the strengths of both.

A session takes ten to twenty minutes; you will feel the nail becoming noticeably warm, and no anaesthetic is needed. Three to four sessions at four-week intervals are usual.

Patience is part of it

The healthy nail has to grow out – on the foot this takes six to twelve months.

Fees

Treatment	Fee
Laser treatment of one or more nails, per session	from €90
Confirming the diagnosis (nail sample, culture/PCR)	covered by statutory health insurance

For patients with statutory health insurance, laser therapy for nail fungus is a self-pay service (IGeL); it is invoiced according to the GOÄ scale of fees. As a medical treatment, the service is exempt from VAT; private health insurers usually reimburse it. The medical therapy and confirming the diagnosis are covered by statutory health insurance.

Frequently asked questions

How much does laser treatment for nail fungus cost?

From €90 per session; three to four sessions are usual. Private health insurers usually reimburse the treatment. The accompanying medical therapy and confirming the diagnosis are covered by statutory health insurance.

Why combine laser and tablets?

The two approaches attack the fungus by different routes: the medication via the metabolism, the laser directly in the nail bed. The combination uses both strengths – this is our preferred approach.

Is it possible without tablets?

Yes. If tablets are not an option because of pre-existing conditions or interactions, the laser is a medication-free alternative with comparable effectiveness.

Is the treatment painful?

You will feel the nail becoming noticeably warm. No anaesthetic is needed.

When will the nail look healthy again?

The affected part has to grow out – on a toenail this takes six to twelve months.

Source: S1 guideline "Onychomykose" (German S1 guideline on onychomycosis, DDG); systematic review and meta-analysis on laser therapy for onychomycosis (Cureus 2024)