Axillary Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Underarm Sweating)

botox-sweating

Excessive underarm sweating is an uncontrollable, annoying, embarrassing, and isolating problem. From the discomfort of sweat running down your sides, to the embarrassment of obvious sweat stains, uncontrollable underarm sweating can feel like it’s ruining your life. People with the disorder often suffer from difficulty in social situations and say it significantly interferes with their daily activities.

The condition affects more than a million people in the U.S. People with this condition sweat up to four times more than normal in order to maintain a normal body temperature.

BOTOX®, A treatment made famous for fighting wrinkles can also provide lasting relief from this embarrassing condition. In 2004, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved Botox for the treatment of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis in patients unable to obtain relief using antiperspirants.

A large study found that botox injections had a positive effect on the patients’ quality of life, for example:
• Before treatment, 66%-72% of patients were somewhat or very dissatisfied with their ability to perform their current work activities, compared with 9%-20% after treatment.
• The number of patients who reported feeling “emotionally damaged or injured” due to their hyperhidrosis reduced by about half before and after treatment, from 76%-83% to 32%-42%.
• Participants reported significantly less limitation in interpersonal and social situations. Before treatment 17%-33% said they were somewhat or very satisfied with their ability to perform non-work activities. After treatment, that proportion increased to 78%-88%.

How does Botox work?
The neurotoxin temporarily blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, severe sweating is reduced.

Where does the sweat go?
Sweat doesn’t go anywhere or get backed up because it’s simply not produced in the areas treated with Botox. Sweat will continue to be produced elsewhere.

How long does it take to work?
Results start to be noticeable approximately 2 to 4 days after treatment with the full effects usually noted within 2 weeks.

When is it time for another treatment?
Keep in mind that Botox is not a cure for severe underarm sweating. Your symptoms will return gradually, and you’ll know when the time is right for another treatment. Dryness typically lasts 4 to 12 months but some studies have found it can last as long as 14 months.

Can it be used in other areas?
Research demonstrates that treating excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, feet, head and face (craniofacial), and other relatively small body areas (like under the breasts) with Botox is safe and effective.
In the case of palmar (hand) excessive sweating, research shows that Botox is 80-90% effective. Repeat injections are needed after 6 months. Botox for palmar sweating may cause temporary pain and weakness in the hands.

Does my insurance cover Botox for sweating?
In many cases, yes! Many insurance authorization requests for Botox treatment are approved once you have used topical medications and they did not work well enough. Remember, approval is not automatic and not all insurance plans cover treatment. However, many patients are pleased to find out their insurance plan covers all or most of their Botox treatments. Contact your insurance company and ask us about insurance billing to determine the paperwork necessary for reimbursement.

Marie R.
Another great experience at Hayes Valley Medical. From making the appointment (seamless) to the treatment with Susie, an excellent experience, completely pristine, great results (already!), and professional follow-up. Can’t say enough.
Kirsten S.
Linda and staff are amazing. I am always very happy with my treatment results. It is apparent that she researches various technologies and techniques. The applications are always evolving with new and improved products. Highly recommended.
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Suzanne P.
Excellent service and an overall pleasant experience. Victoria was professional and knowledgeable. She proposed treatments addressing both my anesthetic and medical concerns.. I could not be happier with the results. Also, the Receptionist, Mattie, was pleasant and efficient. I look forward to future treatments.
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Lisa M.
Hayes Valley is the best! Kate did an incredible job with Dysport removing the wrinkles from my forehead, Sandra gave me great abs and glutes with Emsculpt, and Linda gave me my youthful facial structure back with Sculptra. These women are truly amazing. So glad that I found them!
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Gene V.
I love Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics! I've been coming for a while now for Botox and filler treatments. Linda is AMAZING! She knows just the right amount of product needed in all the right places to bring out my best facial features. I feel more handsome every time!!

The front desk staff are super sweet and helpful. They always ask exactly what I want and I never feel like I'm being 'upsold' or encouraged to do anything other than what I came in for. I would highly recommend HVME to anybody that is on the unsure about trying some of the services they offer. You won't be disappointed. Thank you!!
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Gene V.
I love Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics! I've been coming for a while now for Botox and filler treatments. Linda is AMAZING! She knows just the right amount of product needed in all the right places to bring out my best facial features. I feel more handsome every time!!

The front desk staff are super sweet and helpful. They always ask exactly what I want and I never feel like I'm being 'upsold' or encouraged to do anything other than what I came in for. I would highly recommend HVME to anybody that is on the unsure about trying some of the services they offer. You won't be disappointed. Thank you!!
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Julie S.
This was my first experience with any filler/injection treatment and it was very pleasant, professional and everyone there made me feel safe, welcome and I felt very knowledgeable coming out of my treatment about what to expect. I will absolutely be back!
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Tina B.
Diana at the front desk is so sweet, the medical assistant was amazing & personable and Kate who did my procedure is my favorite! As I walked out and met my husband, I told him how much I enjoy being there & what a good vibe Hayes has.
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Cher B.
Sheila and Linda took great care of me and I look younger and vibrant.  I do not trust anyone else for injectables.  Linda is careful, thoughtful, and respectful of one’s budget. I have followed her from Marin into SF and I will continue to follow her where ever she practices.
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Emily N.
I highly recommend Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics!! All the front desk staff are warm, friendly and professional and Denise is the best for laser, she goes above to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Andrea is exceptional at explaining the services they offer. They are the best in SF in my opinion and I do my research!
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Kathleen F.
Excellent customer service, advice, and care. Botox and Microneedling. Melonie is a gem. She is extremely knowledgable, sincere and honest. Everyone here is helpful, They carry a fabulous array of skin products too. I am so pleased with my results!
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