Hyperhidrosis is the medical term given to the condition referred to as excessive sweating. One out of every one hundred people suffers from this condition which is caused by hyperactivity of the nervous system which controls sweat production. This causes an over production of sweat that can reach volumes measured in liters per hour. The condition can affect the sweat glands of the hands and feet as well as the axilla. The person who suffers with this condition has to deal with embarrassment and ruined clothing or shoes. Some individuals have to change clothing every hour or wear pampers under their arms.

There have been several options for treatment of this condition. The first step is a medically prescribed antiperspirant containing a powerful chemical called aluminum, chloride. The chemical prevents the sweat from escaping the pores. Many times this treatment is not effective. Primary hyperhidrosis means the cause is not related to another condition such as obesity, menopause, drug use, endocrine disorders (hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma) or neurological conditions involving autonomic dysregulation. Oral medications tried for this condition have not been successful. There are surgical options for treatment of this condition, but they have some drawbacks as well, including increased sweat production in other areas.

Botox injections are simple procedures that often take place in a medical office such as Bahamas Institute of Plastic Surgery. Because there is minimal discomfort involved, no anesthesia is required though a topical anesthetic may be used if desired. Botox is a natural, purified protein that is produced by the Clostridium Botulinum Bacterium and it is administered as a very low dose with a tiny injections. This is a simple procedure that takes about thirty minutes to perform. Patients can typically return to work and other normal activities immediately after treatment, though some localized swelling or bruising may occur at the injection site.

There are few complications associated with Botox. Localized numbness, a burning sensation, bruising or swelling may occur at the injection site. Prior to the FDA’s approval of BOTOX ® Cosmetic treatments, BOTOX ® had been used for several different medical conditions including muscle contractions caused by cerebral palsy, incontinence caused by bladder spasms, and migraine headaches caused by forehead tension.

Good candidates for Hyperhidrosis BOTOX®  treatments include physically healthy men and women who are looking to improve excessive sweating under the arms. It’s important that patients have realistic expectations because Botox may not be able   eliminate your sweating completely. Botox may not be appropriate for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant soon.

Have a plastic surgery question for  Dr. Dickie?   If so, e-mail us at info@BahamasInstituteOfPlasticSurgery.com .   Dr. Kenneth Dickie is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Plastic Surgery.   He specializes in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery as well as Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery.   Dr. Dickie has been in clinical practice since 1984, and is currently a member of the Canadian and American Societies of Plastic Surgery, and the Canadian and American Societies of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.