Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a real issue for some people. I have patients that come to me and state that they are unable to wear particular clothes because the problem of excessive sweating is so real, they are painfully embarrassed with the potential resulting appearance. I also have heard patients state that they must bring a change of clothes to work at their desk job because the hyperhidrosis is such as real issue that they cannot wait until they get home at the day’s end.
In today’s world, hyperhidrosis should no longer be a difficult clinical issue to treat. We have long had traditional approaches to therapy such as Robinul, clinical strength antiperspirants, and topical aluminum chloride. Approximately a decade ago, Botox gained approval for hyperhidrosis of the underarms (also known as axillary region), but most insurance plans do not cover this issue, considering it to be elective as a treatment option, even when they have failed the traditional approach to hyperhidrosis.
Later, a device known as MiraDry, was used to more permanently eliminate the issue of excessive sweating under the arms. However, it was not always effective, and the cost was not only prohibitive to the patients, but also to potential providers of the device. Devices such as these are quite costly, sometimes as expensive as the purchase of a home, and if the number of patients demanding these procedures does not allow use of the device to cover the cost of that expensive purchase, it will not make economical sense to have a small business owner (AKA solo or group physician practice) to make a purchase such as that.
Now, we have the newest and best option available to dermatologists and other treatment providers who care for patients with excessive sweating, especially when other traditional approaches fail, or patients do not wish to remain on long-term oral therapy with Robinul for control of the condition.
Radiofrequency microneedling is making a grand entrance into the esthetic practice of medicine for its amazing anti-aging and rejuvenative results. However, it is also used for the destruction of the sweat glands due the thermal tissue reaction that can be created with radiofrequency microneedling. This no-recovery procedure involves local anesthesia injected into the axillary region, followed by this 20 minute procedure that leads to loss of functional sweat glands, and hence, no more embarrassing episodes of excessive sweating.
Some patients may require up to three procedures to achieve complete sweat resolution, however many patients will only need one treatment.
If you are someone who suffers from excessive underarm sweating, please reach out for more information about whether radiofrequency microneedling is the correct treatment for you. Dermatology Office of Dr. Ellen Turner offers complimentary consultations, or you can schedule a medical office visit with Dr. Turner if you desire to learn more about this treatment option. Contact us at 214-373-7546 to schedule your appointment.