Hyperhidrosis is a medical term for excessive sweating beyond what is considered necessary for normal temperature regulation. It can affect various areas of the body, including the underarms, face, hands and feet. The condition can affect males and females at various life stages, with some individuals continuing to perspire despite using antiperspirants.
Symptoms of Underarm Hyperhidrosis
Symptoms of underarm hyperhidrosis include visible perspiration that occurs even without obvious triggers, such as physical activity or heat. Individuals may see moisture on clothing and some choose fabric materials or colours that make perspiration less noticeable. Some individuals regularly apply antiperspirant or change their clothing during the day due to issues with underarm perspiration.
Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options
At Bella Plastic Surgery, a treatment option for individuals with underarm hyperhidrosis involves a prescription-only muscle relaxant product, which is administered to the underarm skin at multiple treatment points. This works by temporarily reducing nerve signals that stimulate sweat glands, which may help reduce sweat production in the treated area. The treatment takes approximately 30 minutes.
As hyperhidrosis treatment is prescription-only, all individuals must first attend a consultation with one of our prescribing cosmetic doctors. During this time, you will be assessed to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you. If so, an individualised treatment plan will be created. The treatment can then be performed by your cosmetic nurse under the supervision of our prescribing doctor.
Post-Treatment Effects
After treatment, patients typically experience mild redness, swelling, tenderness or small bruises at the treated area. These are usually temporary and settle within a few days. Some individuals may also experience a mild headache.
Treatment Results
Results of hyperhidrosis treatment are not immediate. You may notice a reduction in sweating within a few days. However, the full effect typically develops over one to two weeks.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
Treatment for hyperhidrosis is not permanent. The fracture may last approximately 3 to 6 months. Over time, the effects may wane, wth sweating gradually returning as the product wears off.
If ongoing management is desired, we may recommend repeat procedures, depending on your response and the treatment plan discussed with your cosmetic nurse apps come in doctor.
After-Care
Most individuals can resume their everyday activities immediately after the procedure, including driving.
After your procedure, your cosmetic nurse will provide you with verbal and written after-care instructions.
We recommend that individuals avoid alcohol and not partake in strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours. Patients should also limit prolonged sun exposure, heat or extreme temperatures for the two weeks following treatment.
Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the treated area.
Avoid treatments such as facials, waxing, chemical peels, laser treatments, IPL or similar procedures for approximately two weeks unless otherwise advised.
If you notice any unexpected swelling, increasing discomfort or any unusual symptoms, please get in touch with the clinic for advice. If urgent medical attention is required outside of clinic hours, please attend your nearest medical centre or emergency department.
Treatment Cost
The cost of underarm hyperhidrosis treatment depends on the amount of product required. The underarm area involves larger muscle groups than the smaller muscles around the eyes (an area also treated with a muscle relaxant). Therefore, more product may be required, which can influence the overall written cost.
Potential Risks
All cosmetic procedures carry risks. Possible reactions may include redness, swelling, discomfort, bruising or sensitivity at the treatment sites. Some individuals also experience skin tightness, headaches, itching, or mild flu-like symptoms.
Although uncommon, the muscle relaxant product may extend beyond the treated area. This may lead to muscle weakness, drooping of the eyelid, blurred or double vision, swallowing problems, difficulty speaking or other muscle-related symptoms. These effects can arise hours or weeks after treatment and are typically more likely in individuals with particular underlying medical conditions.
For more information, please see our Potential Risks & Complications page.
