Hyperhidrosis
Overactive sweat glands especially underarms, hands, feet or even on the forehead, nose and upper lips can be a cause of much embarrassment and affect self-confidence.
Sweating which is not controlled by topical antiperspirants is very troublesome. The use of Botulinum toxin – BOTOX or Dysport to reduce the amount of sweating can profoundly improve your quality of life with a simple, safe, effective and long lasting treatment.
Q: What is Botulinum Toxin Treatment?
A: Botulinum toxin blocks the transmission of nerve impulses to sweat glands which can be used to treat excessive sweating as well as to the specific muscle(s) of the face and therefore induces relaxation of the muscle in a dose dependent manner. Botulinum toxin is therefore effective in the treatment of Hyperhidrosis of the underarms (axilla), face, hands and feet. Because the receptors that are blocked by Botulinum toxin are continually begin replaced, the effect of Botulinum toxin is never permanent but typically lasts 3 – 4 months in muscles and 6 – 12 months in sweat glands.
Q: Am I suitable for Botulinum toxin treatment?
A: If you are troubled by sweating which is not controlled by topical antiperspirants and would like a long term treatment, then Botulinum toxin treatment is suitable for you. Excessive sweating or Hyperhidrosis can take a terrible social toll on the individual, making them feel embarrassed and self-conscious. Treatment with Botulinum toxin can eradicate excessive sweating and have a profoundly beneficial effect on your quality of life. Botulinum toxin treatment should not be used during pregnancy or breast feeding.
Q: How is the treatment performed?
A: Initial consultation will determine the goals of your treatment, make note of any associated abnormalities or asymmetries and plan the optimum treatment to achieve the ideal result in each patient. Treatment is carried out in the out-patient setting and takes 20 – 30 mins for Hyperhidrosis.
Q: Will the treatment be painful / cause bruising?
A: The use of skin cooling or topical local anaesthetic cream will ensure minimal discomfort during the treatment and minimal or no bruising should occur with the careful technique used.
Q: When will the results be seen?
A: Botulinum toxin starts to be effective in 5 – 7 days reaching a peak at 14 days. Most patients notice a reduction in sweating at 2 weeks and improvement in sweating at 4 – 6 weeks.
Q: How long will the result last?
A: Most improvement will last for approximately 4 – 6 months after initial treatment. In order to achieve the ideal result it is recommended to repeat the treatment every 6 – 12 months for excessive sweating.
Q: What are the risks of Botulinum Toxin treatment?
A: Firstly, Botulinum toxin is a very safe drug with minimal side effects or risks provided the treatment is performed by a qualified and trained practitioner. Side effects such as mild pain with the injection, mild redness at the injection sites or mild bruising can occur but should be temporary and limited. Weakness of nearby muscles can occur if the toxin spreads from the injection site. This risk is reduced by care following your treatment – avoid bending over for 4 hours, vigorous activity and alcohol until the following day. Allergic reactions to Botulinum toxin are rare. A small number of patients develop natural antibodies to some forms of Botulinum toxin and therefore may not have a good response following treatment. Usually, switching to an alternative form of Botulinum toxin enables effective treatment.
Q: What is the cost of Botulinum toxin treatment?
A: The costs for Hyperhidrosis treatment with Botulinum toxin range from £350 to £750 depending on the extent of sweating and area to be treated.
