HYPERHIDROSIS
Excessive sweating solution
WHAT IS HYPERHIDROSIS AND WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Hyperhidrosis refers to a condition in which excess sweating occurs. Sweating in itself is a normal mechanism that the body uses to maintain an optimal temperature and prevent hyperthermia. 0.6 - 1% of adolescents and young adults suffer from some form of hyperhidrosis or other. Hyperhidrosis is often a source of great social embarrassment for those who suffer from it. Furthermore, hyperhidrosis of the palms may even have a negative impact on one's occupational functioning, especially in the corporate field where handshaking is a necessity. Many of the milder forms of hyperhidrosis can be treated with a broad number of topical antiperspirant agents ranging from boracic acid to formaldehyde. Unfortunately, virtually all of these treatments cause irritation and sensitisation. Iontophoresis is a treatment option that passes a direct current across the skin. While the treatment can be effective for mild hyperhidrosis, it is more often than not an ineffective tool as the treatment is very time consuming and this results in non-compliance. Botox® is the most effective non-surgical treatment option for hyperhidrosis. It is particularly effective when excess sweating is in a specific area such as the palms, armpits or soles. Even in cases of generalised hyperhidrosis Botox® treatments may still be used to control the most debilitating sites of excess sweating.
BOTULINUM TOXIN PROCEDURE FOR HYPERHIDROSIS
Our aesthetic medical doctors will perform a comprehensive assessment during consultation prior to performing the procedure. Here the worst areas of sweating will be identified and the targeted area of treatment chosen. Any medical conditions prohibiting the use of Botox® will be sought for and excluded, and the potential adverse effects of the treatment discussed. Once informed consent is obtained the procedure can begin.
The treatment area will be properly cleansed and a topical anaesthetic may be used to make the procedure more comfortable. Multiple injections of Botox® are carefully placed in the desired area using a very fine needle. The entire procedure takes 15-45 minutes depending on the size and site of treatments.
IS IT EFFECTIVE?
Many studies have revealed the clear effect of Botox® in reducing excess sweating. Furthermore there are innumerable patient testimonials demonstrating the ability of Botox® to radically improve the quality of life, especially of those who are worst affected by hyperhidrosis. It is important to note that Botox® can only be used to control the symptoms of hyperhidrosis. The effect lasts 6-9 months; once the nerve endings begin to regrow the excess sweating will begin to recur. However, with retreatments of Botox the effect is often considerably longer.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Prices will range from R5600 (80 units) to R 7000 (100 units) for Botox for Axillary (Underarm) Hyperhidrosis.
