What is hyperhidrosis?
A permanently beaded forehead, halos under the arms, clammy hands too slippery to hold a steering wheel... Excessive sweating is a real nuisance. It causes such embarrassment in society that sufferers experience it as a social handicap. Some lose self-confidence by avoiding potentially embarrassing situations. What's more, hyperhidrosis can lead to other problems such as mycosis, warts and eczema.
Sweating is a normal phenomenon that regulates body temperature, thanks to the sweat glands. This is why sweating is triggered by physical exertion, hot weather, fever or hormonal changes. But when the patient sweats profusely for no apparent reason, it may be localized hyperhidrosis or generalized hyperhidrosis. It's important to consult a doctor, who will investigate the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
There are currently several antiperspirant treatments available: medication, iontophoresis, surgery (thoracic sympathectomy) in cases of severe hyperhidrosis, and Botox® (botulinum toxin) injections. These are performed at the Clinique du Lac with convincing results.
Hyperhidrosis and treatment with Botox® injections: objectives and principles
Hyperhidrosis, particularly in the armpits, can be safely and easily controlled with Botox®. These subcutaneous injections can also be used to relieve people who do not suffer from hyperhidrosis, but who wish to limit their perspiration on the occasion of special events (public awards ceremony, job interview...), or in anticipation of summer, for example.
This treatment is appreciated for its effectiveness in treating perspiration not only in the armpits, but also on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, face and scalp. The principle is simple: botulinum toxin prevents the sweat glands from secreting sweat by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a nervous system mediator. To treat a localized area, several injections are required. For example, to treat underarm hyperhidrosis, around 15 injections are needed for each side. Each injection is performed in a square measuring approximately 2 cm on each side. The procedure is not very painful, as the needle used is very fine.
The effect of Botox® appears after 48 hours and intensifies over the following month. As a general rule, treatment should be repeated at regular intervals every 6 months.
Treatment of excessive underarm perspiration: practical information
Treatment of hypersudation with botulinum toxin injections is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and in people with myasthenia gravis or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The Botox® used to treat excessive perspiration is the same as that used to treat wrinkles, but the injection points are not the same.
Hyperhidrosis: the procedure
This medical procedure is performed in the doctor's office at Clinique du Lac and lasts around 20 minutes. It does not require general anesthesia. Depending on the targeted area, an anesthetic cream may be applied one hour before the procedure.
Following Botox® injections, bruising and slight swelling may appear. These disappear after a few hours.
Rates for Botox injections for excessive perspiration
Are you concerned by excessive perspiration and interested in this treatment? The fee for the injection of a syringe of botulinum toxin is €350 (injection performed by the surgeon). During your consultation at Clinique du Lac, the surgeon will perform a medical examination and discuss your wishes and motivations with you, before providing you with a customized quote.
Contact Clinique du Lac to schedule your appointment!