what is miradry?
For people who suffer from excessive underarm sweating, microwave thermolysis is a good treatment option to consider, if strong antiperspirants fail to work. Microwave thermolysis is the only procedure that appears to provide permanent results without invasive surgery. Microwave Thermolysis is an effective and lasting second line treatment option, clinically proven, non-invasive procedure. It is not available on the NHS and is expensive, requiring more than one treatment session to achieve sweat reduction for those with axilla (underarm) hyperhidrosis.
how does it work?
A clinically proven, non-invasive procedure, micro thermolysis uses electromagnetic energy (microwaves) which is delivered to the skin using a specially designed handpiece. After administering local anaesthesia, the energy is carefully targeted to the area where the sweat glands are found and eliminates them by thermolysis. Simultaneously the skin surface is cooled to prevent it being damaged. Sweat glands do not grow back, so the procedure gives a long-lasting reduction in sweat.
can it be used to treat areas other than the underarms?
The miraDry device is only licensed for treating underarm sweating. We are aware of some clinics offering the treatment off label for other skin areas but would strongly caution against the temptation to use it elsewhere. The reason is that the device destroys all the structures in the dermal layer of the skin beneath the surface (epidermis). This includes the sweat glands and hair follicles but also the sensory nerves that allow the sensations of touch and pain. These nerves are less important under the arms but their loss from the hands or feet could be disabling.
what if it doesn't work?
The reduction in sweating is immediate and dramatic; in clinical trials, patients experienced and average 82% reduction in sweat. In clinical trials over 90% of patients are satisfied with the reduction in both sweat and odour that can be achieved following microwave thermolysis treatment. For most patients the treatment is permanent; more than one procedure is usually required to eliminate the sweat glands in people with hyperhidrosis. As the sweat glands don't grow back, the sweating does not return, unlike temporary treatments such as Botulium toxin injections.
side effects
The treatment has minimal side effects. The procedure is quick and pain-free, with minimal downtime after treatment. Side effects after treatment include pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, blistering and sensitivity in the underarm area that may last several weeks. Changes in skin tone have been reported after treatment, increased pigmentation (brown colour) or changes in skin colour, especially in skin tones other than caucasian.
where can I get miradry treatment in the UK?
There are a small number of clinics in the UK that offer miraDry treatment which can be searched for here.
