If you have a damaged toenail or one that’s been compromised by a fungus or infection, you may feel uncomfortable wearing open-toed shoes, sandals, or going barefoot at the pool. But what may seem like a cosmetic issue may affect how you walk, how you move, and the type of shoes you wear.
After our skilled podiatrist, Dr. Sarah Stewart, diagnoses your toenail problem, she may recommend Keryflex nail restoration as a way to improve both the appearance and function of a damaged nail. Here, Dr. Stewart discusses this new innovation for helping patients feel comfortable again with the appearance of their toenails while supporting healthier nail growth underneath.
Understanding Keryflex Nail Restoration
Keryflex nail restoration is a cosmetic and protective treatment to improve the appearance of damaged toenails. It involves applying a special resin to the nail, which is then shaped and molded to look like a natural nail.
The resin bonds to the existing nail surface and forms a sturdy but flexible layer. Once it hardens, it can be trimmed and polished like a natural nail. This is not the same as applying an artificial press-on nail; rather, Keryflex is customized to fit the unique shape and condition of each patient’s nail.
It’s important to know that nail restoration is not a medication or cure for underlying conditions. Instead, it works alongside medical treatment plans by providing a protective covering while the damaged nail grows into a natural nail.
Keryflex Can Help Improve Many Types of Nail Damage
Keryflex is often recommended as part of a comprehensive toenail treatment plan. It can be especially helpful for patients dealing with visible or structural nail issues. Common conditions treated with Keryflex include the following:
- Nail fungus. While antifungal treatment addresses infection, Keryflex improves the toenail’s appearance during recovery.
- Nail damage from trauma. After a sports injury or other foot trauma, a toenail can be damaged, split, or partially missing.
- Brittle or cracked nails. Structural weaknesses can cause nails to crack or peel easily.
- Discolored nails. Dark or yellowing nails can be concealed while the healthy nail grows out.
- Partially missing nails. Keryflex can create a temporary nail where one has been lost or severely damaged.
The Keryflex Procedure
After our podiatrist evaluates whether the nail bed is healthy enough for application, the following steps will be carried out as part of the Keryflex nail restoration procedure:
- Our doctor will trim and file down the damaged nail to prepare it for the restoration.
- A bonding agent will be applied to the damaged nail which helps in the adhesion of the Keryflex resin to the natural nail.
- The Keryflex resin is a high-quality, medical-grade gel that will be applied to the nail, and this resin will be hardened using ultraviolet light.
- Our podiatrist will mold and shape the hardened resin until it provides a natural appearance.
- Finally, a sealant will be applied and cured with light at the end of treatment.
The procedure takes about 30 minutes or less, depending on the extent of damage to your nails and the number of nails to be restored. This treatment will last for about 6- 8 weeks until your natural nails develop.
Key Issues to Consider
- Some nail infections or severe damage may need medical treatment before cosmetic restoration.
- Keryflex is often used alongside antifungal or other therapies.
- Because Keryflex is typically considered cosmetic, insurance coverage may be limited.
- Keryflex may be inadvisable if you have peripheral vascular disease symptoms, peripheral neuropathy symptoms, lesions on your toenails, or in-grown toenails.
- Nail restoration can’t be done on a toe that has no natural nail. KeryFlex does not bind to skin; thus, the presence of at least 15% of the natural nail is recommended.
It’s important to remember that Keryflex is recommended to improve the appearance of the toenail while protecting it. However, it’s not a substitute for medical care. Our podiatrist will focus on diagnosing and treating the underlying issue first, then use Keryflex as a supportive solution when appropriate.