Hyperhidrosis

Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, can have devastating consequences on your self-esteem. Happily, Botox injected into the armpits, or other sweat-prone areas, has the ability to block the signals that tell your sweat glands to… well, sweat.

Common areas for Botox injections for hyperhidrosis include:

Underarms
Hairline
Scalp
Palms of the hands
Soles of the feet

BOTOX FOR EXCESSIVE UNDERARM – PALMAR SWEATING

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that is characterized by excessive sweating. Hyperhidrosis is unrelated to factors that typically cause sweating, such as heat, exercise, or feelings of anxiety or stress. Patients affected by hyperhidrosis typically experience at least one episode of excessive sweating per week. There are two different types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is related to overactive sweat glands and most commonly affects the hands, feet, underarms, and face. Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that is associated with other underlying medical conditions, such as menopause, diabetes, some types of cancer, and thyroid issues, among others. Secondary hyperhidrosis may also be a side effect of certain medications. Secondary hyperhidrosis may resolve on its own once the underlying medical condition has been treated; however, primary hyperhidrosis does not resolve without treatment.

Excessive underarm sweating that is not controllable with antiperspirants is medically termed “primary axillary hyperhidrosis”. Botox can be injected into your underarms and palmar areas to decrease sweat production by as much as 80% to 90%.

Botox treatment for excessive sweating is an excellent option if you have underarm sweating that cannot be resolved with products. Both men and women are candidates for this treatment.

What should I expect during BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?

BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis is performed on an outpatient basis in our offices.  Before the procedure, an iodine sweat test is performed by applying iodine and starch powder to the underarm area.  This will help to delineate the areas of maximal sweat production.  Using an ultra fine needle, small amounts of BOTOX® are injected into multiple targeted sites across the treatment area.  To ensure patient comfort, topical numbing cream is offered prior to the treatment, although it’s not necessary.  For treatment of the hands and feet, topical numbing cream will be used as well, and a local block may also be offered.  The procedure usually takes about 20 minutes.

What should I expect after BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?

You can return to your normal activities with no restrictions immediately after treatment.  The  effects will become apparent during the first week after treatment, and you should notice a significant reduction in sweating within the first 4 weeks.
How often do I need BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?

On average, patients return for repeat treatment 3-4 times per year during the first year.  Over time, you will need less frequent treatments, with most people needing just 1 or 2 treatments annually.

What happens if I decide to stop BOTOX® treatment for hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating?

The effects of BOTOX® are temporary.  If you decide to stop treatment, your sweating will gradually return to the level it was before you started treatment.