Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Treatment with botulinum toxin can be very effective for reducing axillary hyperhidrosis. Sweat glands are activated by messages from the body’s nervous system, for some people the nerves that stimulate the sweat gland is overactive resulting in excessive sweating. When Botulinum Toxin is administered into the area this blocks the chemical messenger, which is neurotransmitter called acetylcholine from binding to the sweat gland, which inhibits the release of sweat by effectively paralysing the overactive nerve.

Axillary Hyperhidrosis ( excessive underarm sweating)

Firstly you are in safe hands by visiting a Save Face accredited Centre of Excellence. We will take a thorough medical history and ensure there are no treatment contradictions for your safety. Treatment with Botulinum Toxin is very safe, however there may be some potential side effects like with any administered medication. If these are experienced they should resolve very quickly. Common side effects can include:
• Weakness in the arm
• Compensatory sweating
• Bleeding or bruising at the treatment site
• Subcutaneous nodule
• Hair loss at the injection site
There are rare and very rare side effects that will be discussed at consultation

Your full treatment dose will be administered on the first treatment. This will be followed by a review appointment 4 weeks later to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, underarm Botox injections can reduce underarm sweating by 82-87%.

Effects start to work within 2-3 days and maximum results are achieved at day 30. You will find following the months after treatment your sweating will start to gradually return. You do not have to wait until it has completely returned to have your next treatment, we would always advised no sooner than 12 weeks but after this period would be ok.

Prior to any treatment at Staffordshire Skin & Laser Clinic a full medical consultation and assessment will be carried out to ensure there are no treatment contraindications as your safety is our priority. As a guide there are certain contraindications that will make you unsuitable for treatment. These include:

• Pregnancy or breast feeding
• Neuro-muscular disease such as Myasthenia Gravis
• Certain antibiotics (amino glycosides such as neomycin, gentamicin, streptomycin and kanamycin)
• Current use of muscle relaxant medications
• Certain bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy. If u have an allergy to iodine treatment can be performed without the iodine starch test.

Whilst the treatment is been administered with tiny injections you may feel a slight discomfort with some injections stinging a little. However the procedure is quick and tolerated very well by our patients.

Unfortunately, Botulinum Toxin is not a permanent solution for axillary hyperhidrosis, however very effective whilst undergoing regular treatment. The treatment effects on average last around 6 months, however this duration may be shorter for some and longer for others.

There is very little preparation for your treatment. However as a guide we do advise the following:
• Ensure that the area is shaved the day before treatment
• Do not use Deodorant or antiperspirants for 48 hours prior to treatment
• To reduce your risk of bruising avoid alcohol for 2-3 days before your treatment
• Avoid blood thinning medication such as Aspirin, and NSAID’s such a ibuprofen for 3-5 days before your treatment to avoid bruising
• Avoid Fish oil supplements for 3-5 days prior to your treatment to avoid bruising
• Wear a comfortable loose fitting top that will not irritate your skin post treatment

When you arrive for your appointment we will discuss any further questions you may have so that you fully understand your procedure and are happy to proceed. In order to offer the best treatment outcomes we will perform an iodine starch test prior to treatment. This will involve applying an iodine solution and starch to the affected area so that the precise location of the sweat glands can be identified. Your skin will then be cleansed and a number of tiny injections will be administered. These injections are very superficial, however may cause a tiny sting but nothing to uncomfortable. Your skin will then be cleansed post treatment, your post treatment care will be discussed and your review appointment will be scheduled.

Immediately post treatment there may be some swelling, redness or small bumps, bruising is not so common. Any reactions may become more apparent over the next 24-48 hours. Despite this you are still able to carry on with normal activities. An ice pack can be applied post treatment to reduce any immediate swelling

Following your treatment you will be able to resume normal daily activities, however we do advise the following:
• Avoid hot baths and showers for 24 hours,
• Do not perform any strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours post treatment
• Do not use antiperspirants for 48 hours
• Avoid sauna and steam rooms for 1 week

£400 per treatment. Monthly instalment pre payment plans available with GoCardless. A £25 booking fee is required to secure your consultation/appointment. This is redeemable against any treatments or products purchased within 6 months.