Botox for Hyperhidrosis

What is Botox for Hyperhidrosis?

Botox is a safe and effective treatment for underarm hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) when injections are administered by an experienced, trained doctor. Botox as a treatment for hyperhidrosis has been approved by both the FDA and Health Canada. Botox works by blocking nerve signals sent to overactive sweat glands, thus reducing sweating. According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, Botox has been shown to decrease sweating by 82-87%.

Hyperhidrosis is thought to be the result of an overactive nervous system that causes some sweat glands to produce more than is required to cool the body. Hyperhidrosis may be hereditary, but often developers later in life.

Botox for Hyperhidrosis Patient Information.

Am I a Good Candidate?

You are good candidate for Botox hyperhidrosis treatments if:

  • Your general health is good.
  • Excessive sweating causes you embarrassment or discomfort (e.g., visible sweat stains, changing clothes frequently, constantly patting your underarms dry).
  • You’ve tried medical-grade or prescription anti-perspirants, but they don’t seem to work.
  • You want long-lasting relief from a treatment that takes minutes.

Read the FAQ for contraindications.

Before the Treatment

During an initial consultation, Dr. Gagliardi will ask questions about your medical history and general health to determine whether your excessive sweating may be caused by other issues, such as an underlying health condition or medication. If you’re a candidate for treatment, the doctor will discuss Botox’s efficacy, the treatment, and answer any questions you may have. Some health plans will cover therapeutic treatments.

During the Treatment

Dr. Gagliardi uses ultra-fine needles that minimize the discomfort of injections. If you are anxious about needles or pain, discuss your concerns with the doctor. Treatments are quick; therefore, discomfort is momentary. Most clients find treatments easily tolerated.

After the Treatment

You may notice a reduction of sweating within a couple of days of your treatment and total dryness or near dryness two weeks after the treatment. The dryness should last for approximately 6 months and in many patients much longer.

Botox for Hyperhidrosis FAQ

Are Botox hyperhidrosis treatments covered by health insurance?

Some health insurance providers cover Botox treatments for hyperhidrosis, which is a medical condition. Dr. Gagliardi encourages you to contact your insurance provider prior to making an appointment for treatment.

Are Botox hyperhidrosis treatments safe?

Numerous studies of Botox treatments for primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweat) have demonstrated both its efficacy and safety. Botox is generally well tolerated with minimal, short-lived side effects.

How do I prepare for a treatment?

Tell Dr. Gagliardi what medications you are taking, especially blood thinners and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Aleve and Motrin.

Are Botox injections painful?

Botox injections are easily tolerated by the vast majority of patients. During an injection, you may feel a slight pin prick.

How long does a treatment take?

A typical Botox treatment takes 30-minutes to an hour. Much of that time is spent discussing expectations with the actual injection time being quite short.

Will I need more than one appointment to treat hyperhidrosis?

One appointment is all that’s needed to experience the benefits.

How often will I need a treatment?

You’ll need a treatment every six months to a year, depending on individual factors and the amount Botox used.

Are there any contraindications?

You should not have Botox treatments if you:

  • Have a neuromuscular disease, unless during a consultation Dr. Gagliardi determines that it is safe to do so.
  • Are pregnant, may soon become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • Are allergic or sensitive to Botox or its components.