MiraDry vs. Botox© : Choosing One That’s Right for You

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While most people experience sweating under specific circumstances such as in hot weather or while exercising, a small percentage of the population suffers from a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Unlike the average person, someone with hyperhidrosis will experience excess sweating even when factors associated with sweating are not present. For example, sweating while sedentary or while in air conditioning. As those with hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating can negatively impact one’s social and professional lives, as well as mental and emotional health.

 

Finding the right treatment for hyperhidrosis is an individual process, as what works for one person may not necessarily work for the next. Therefore, it is important to understand the various options available on the market to determine the right course of action based on your needs. Two commonly used treatment options today include MiraDry and Botox© . Each with their own unique benefits, both MiraDry and Botox©  have been used to effectively treat excessive sweating in thousands of individuals.

 

Causes of Hyperhidrosis

 

Before determining which treatment option to pursue, it’s important to first understand the types and causes of hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis comes in one of two forms: primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis. In both cases, the automatic stimulation of the sweat glands is hyperactive. The most common areas of the body where excessive sweating can occur include the armpits, hands, feet, head, and genital regions. While some cases of hyperhidrosis can be linked to an underlying medical condition or even genetics, the majority of cases have no known cause.

 

Primary Hyperhidrosis: primary hyperhidrosis most often impacts parts of the body including underarms, hands, feet, and face. This type of excessive sweating typically presents during childhood, and is believed to result largely due to genetics with 30-50% of those diagnosed with this form of hyperhidrosis reporting a family history.

 

Secondary hyperhidrosis: unlike primary hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis can be linked to a specific medical condition or medication. This form of hyperhidrosis most often presents during the adult years, and can impact areas all over the body or just a single region. Some of the common conditions that result in hyperhidrosis include diabetes, anxiety, obesity, hyperthyroidism, menopause, and alcohol abuse, to name a few.

 

What is MiraDry?

 

After a hyperhidrosis diagnosis, many are eager to learn of the treatment options available to them. One such treatment option a number of patients will consider is MiraDry. Relatively new to the market, MiraDry received FDA approval in 2011 for the treatment of excessive axillary hyperhidrosis. MiraDry is a non-invasive procedure that simply requires the use of a handheld device. This procedure works by delivering precisely controlled electromagnetic energy beneath the underarm skin. The electromagnetic energy leads to thermolysis (decomposition by heat) of the sweat glands. While the sweat glands beneath the skin are eliminated, the surface of the skin remains cool and protected.

 

What is Botox© ?

 

Botox©  injections are a very different procedure compared to MiraDry. Botox©  is a toxin made from microbes that cause botulism – bacteria responsible for causing food poisoning. However, when administered in a specific way, this toxin can be used to control a variety of ailments including excessive sweating, migraines, muscle spasms, in addition to correcting cosmetic flaws such as wrinkles and fine lines.

 

To control sweating, Botox©  is injected into the underarms, which then temporarily blocks the secretion of the chemical that controls sweat glands. During the procedure, between10-15 injections are typically required to reach the desired dryness.

 

MiraDry vs. Botox© : A Comparative Analysis

 

Both MiraDry and Botox©  have pros and cons that should be considered when deciding which treatment option to pursue following a hyperhidrosis diagnosis. In comparing the two, consider the following:

 

Long-term results. Botox©  is a temporary procedure that will need to be repeated, on average, every 4-12 months, in order to manage hyperhidrosis. On the other hand, MiraDry is a permanent treatment solution requiring only a single session to solve excessive sweating long-term.

 

Sweat Reduction. Both treatment options will result in relief from excessive sweating, however those who undergo MiraDry can expect to see immediate results at an average of 82% reduction of sweat. Those who undergo Botox©  injections can expect to see total dryness within two weeks of treatment.

 

Hair Reduction. While the primary use of MiraDry is to treat hyperhidrosis, it has the added effect of reducing underarm hair. In fact, those who undergo the MiraDry treatment can expect to see an average 70% reduction of all color hair following their treatment. Botox©  does not stop the growth or appearance of underarm hair.

 

Odor Reduction. In addition to permanently treating excessive sweating, MiraDry is also effective in reducing and even eliminating the presence of underarm odor. While Botox©  temporarily treats hyperhidrosis, it will have no effect on odor.

 

Procedure. Most individuals with hyperhidrosis see permanent results following a single, one-hour sessions. In more severe cases of hyperhidrosis, a second session may be required. Botox©  for hyperhidrosis will need to be repeated every 4-12 months, requiring 10-15 injections during each session.

 

Cost. The price of both MiraDry and Botox©  will differ depending on the treatment facility used. However, the most important factor to consider when it comes to cost is that Botox©  is a temporary procedure that will need to be repeated every 4-12 months, while MiraDry only requires a single treatment session. For this reason, MiraDry is the more cost-effective option.

 

Side Effects. The recovery process from Botox©  tends to be a bit quicker and with fewer side effects when compared to MiraDry. Following Botox©  injections, patients are able to return to their typical routine and activities immediately upon leaving the doctor’s office. On the other hand, those who have received a MiraDry treatment can expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness for a few days following the procedure.

 

 

MiraDry and Botox©  from the Center for Hyperhidrosis

 

Our team at the Center for Hyperhidrosis are skilled and experienced in delivering safe and effective MiraDry and Botox©  treatments to patients battling hyperhidrosis. We are here to help you determine which option is right for you based on your specific wants, needs, and budget. Contact us today to discuss in depth what you can expect from our MiraDry and Botox©  procedures and be on your way to the hyperhidrosis solution that gives you the quality of life you deserve.

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