miraDry® for Underarm Sweating

The application of antiperspirants is necessary to help us control sweating in the underarms; however, for many individuals, underarm sweat and odor can still present themselves no matter how rigorous we apply our daily hygiene routines. miraDry® is an innovative solution for controlling the effects of underarm sweating and alleviating concerns that odors and stains will occur at the worst possible time. This non-surgical treatment is cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce sweat glands from the underarms. Available here at the practice of our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Eric Okamoto, miraDry® is a quick, in-office procedure that can provide many patients with a permanent remedy for excessive underarm sweat.

What Are the Benefits of miraDry®?

miraDry® offers an array of benefits for patients who are ideal candidates for the procedure, including:

  • *Both sweat and odor glands are diminished
  • Immediate and long-term results
  • Non-invasive procedure that involves no surgery or cutting
  • Little to no recovery time is typically necessary
  • Once the sweat and odor glands are eliminated there is typically no need for re-treatment
  • The treatment can be completed in about two hours
  • Reduction in the need for antiperspirants and deodorants

*50-80% of the armpit glands are permanently destroyed with a singular miraDry® treatment. By comparison, typical antiperspirants/deodorants only reduce sweating/odor by 20-30%.

Am I a Candidate for miraDry®?

Ideal candidates for miraDry® are typically those who are in relatively good general health and suffer from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in the underarms. Many individuals who consider this procedure have found that antiperspirants are not adequately effective for controlling sweat and odors in the underarm areas. miraDry® can also be a good option for patients who have tried other kinds of treatment designed to address hyperhidrosis in the armpits (such as BOTOX® injections), but would like a longer-lasting solution. Dr. Okamoto will evaluate your needs in the initial consultation and determine whether miraDry® is the best option for your goals.

What Does the miraDry® Treatment Process Involve?

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miraDry® harnesses the power of thermal energy to permanently destroy sweat and odor glands in the armpits while leaving surrounding tissues unharmed. Once a local anesthetic has been applied to the target area in order to minimize discomfort during the procedure, the miraDry® treatment is performed with little to no discomfort for most patients.

In most cases, only one miraDry® treatment is necessary for adequate sweat/odor control. Patients are reassessed at three months to determine whether a second treatment should be considered.

What Is the miraDry® Recovery Process Like?

Most individuals who have miraDry® treatment are able to resume normal daily routines immediately after the procedure. Some level of redness, bruising, numbness, and/or swelling can be expected following treatment; however, these effects should fade within a few weeks. Some physical exercises and strenuous activities might need to be avoided for several days after treatment. During your initial consultation, Dr. Okamoto will discuss all aspects of the procedure and talk with you about what to expect during the recovery process.

How Long Does miraDry® Last?

miraDry® has followed a group of patients for two years and knows that results persist for at least this length of time. On this basis, we believe that it is quite reasonable to inform our patients that their results are likely permanent.

Is miraDry® Safe?

While sweating is an important function in order to regulate the body’s temperature, please note than only about two percent of the body’s sweat glands are in the armpits. The reduction of these sweat glands should not affect the body’s sweating elsewhere. Since the body has approximately two to four million sweat glands, miraDry’s concentration only on those in the armpits should not inhibit sweat glands in other areas from adequately maintaining a healthy ability to prevent the body from overheating. miraDry® is also FDA-cleared for treatment of hyperhidrosis in the underarms.

Are There Side Effects to miraDry®?

The most common side effects of miraDry® include soreness, swelling, bruising, and numbness in the treatment areas. These conditions should only be temporary, and they often diminish over the days and weeks following the miraDry® procedure. In some cases, patients may experience a change in the way the skin feels under the arms for a short time; however, this effect should also fade. Although it is very rare, permanent nerve injury is a risk associated with this treatment. Dr. Okamoto is highly experienced with miraDry® procedures and will make every effort to minimize any risk of complications. He will also explain all risks of this treatment before the procedure so you have a full understanding of what is involved before you make your decision.

Do you have questions about miraDry®? Please contact us today for more information, or to schedule a consultation.
*Individual results may vary