If you answered YES to any one of these questions, there is good news for you! MDSkin offers two treatment options that can reduce or even eliminate underarm sweat: BOTOX and MiraDry.
Which treatment is best?
Most patients are curious about the differences between the two treatments and often ask - "which treatment is best for me?" While a consultation is always recommended, the following describes each treatment and outline the pros and cons of both.
The Treatment Process
BOTOX injections for excessive sweating are similar to BOTOX injections for cosmetic purposes, except the injections are made in the underarm. BOTOX works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the sweat glands, so when your brain says “start sweating,” your glands don’t respond. During the treatment, the provider will deliver a series of tiny boluses of BOTOX just under the skin that form a grid pattern in the armpit. The treatment itself is quick with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
MiraDry is an energy-based, non-surgical treatment. The procedure involves numbing the underarm with anesthetic and then using a handheld device to deliver thermal energy through the skin, which heats and destroys the sweat glands. The treatment takes about an hour, is easily tolerated and requires no downtime.
What To Expect After Treatment
Botox studies for hyperhidrosis demonstrate that treatment can reduce underarm sweating by 82%-87%. Results are seen as soon as 5 days to 2 weeks after treatment.
Following MiraDry treatment, there may be some redness, tenderness, bruising, or swelling in the underarm area. These symptoms are usually minor and temporary. No downtime is required, meaning that you can return to your normal routine immediately after your appointment. Patients are asked to ice the area for the first 24-48 hours after treatment to minimize swelling and ibuprofen can be taken as needed for comfort. It is best to avoid exercise for several days after MiraDry. This one-time treatment can reduce sweating by 82% and odor by 89%. Many patients will also notice hair reduction in the treatment area as a happy side effect of treatment! Results are immediate.
How Long Will Results Last?
Sweat reduction from BOTOX typically lasts about four to six months. Patients will need re-treatment every 6 to 8 months to maintain the effects.
Results achieved with MiraDry last indefinitely, because the sweat glands do not grow back after treatment. Although there is significant reduction from the first treatment, some patients choose to have a second treatment, usually a few months later, to achieve the most complete sweat reduction possible.
Are These Treatments Safe?
Both BOTOX and MiraDry are FDA cleared for the treatment of hyperhidrosis and are safe and effective treatment options.
Michelle Tiano, PA-C and Jennifer Geoghegan, M.D. are both certified MiraDry treatment providers. Both providers welcome consultations to answer questions regarding treatment options and to help determine which treatment is right for you.