A new, non-invasive procedure against underarm perspiration
Targeted microwaves primarily irradiate the sweat glands in the underarm area. The miraDry® treatment can also be used with excessive sweating on the buttocks and torso.
For the treatment of the hands, the miraDry® procedure is only suitable to a limited extent, while it is out of the question for the treatment of sweaty feet or heavy perspiration on the face.
The skin is not penetrated, so the miraDry® procedure is another non-invasive treatment for hyperhidrosis. Usually, the procedure requires two outpatient treatments from your dermatologist three months’ apart.
The heat of the microwave permanently destroys the sweat and odour-causing glands. The miraDry® method can therefore also be used for the treatment of bromhidrosis (unpleasant body odour). It also reduces hair growth by destroying the hair follicles.
How does miraDry® treatment work?
During treatment, the skin area to be treated is sucked in by the miraDry® handpiece and then treated with microwaves. The upper skin layer is protected by a cooling system, so that the heat is limited to the deeper lying sweat and olfactory glands. The cooling system also relieves the pain during the treatment.
Side effects of miraDry® treatment
Side effects of the miraDry® treatment may include swelling, local pain in the treatment area, bruising, redness, burns, swelling, or numbness. Rarely, it can also lead to discoloration of the skin in the armpit.
As this is a fairly new procedure for the treatment of hyperhidrosis, there are currently no studies on its long-term effects.
Contraindications for the miraDry® procedure
The procedure is not suitable for patients with cardiac pacemakers and other electronic implants, for patients who need additional oxygen, or who have an intolerance to the anaesthetics lidocaine and epinephrine.
What is the cost of a miraDry® treatment?
The cost of a treatment is usually in the mid four-digit range.
Will health insurance cover miraDry® treatments?
Whether statutory health insurance will cover the treatment is uncertain. We recommend asking your insurance company before beginning treatment. Even after evidence of its medical necessity has been submitted, the cost will be reimbursed only on a case-by-case basis.
Benefits and risks of miraDry® treatment compared to HIDREX iontophoresis treatment
Compared to iontophoresis, miraDry® is new. No long-term studies have yet been published. In contrast, the success of HIDREX iontophoresis therapy has been proven in numerous studies. miraDry® can only be used to treat excessive sweating in underarm, torso, buttocks, and hands. HIDREX, on the other hand, offers solutions for the hands, underarm, feet, head, face and, in special cases, the back. Another advantage of iontophoresis therapy is that the costs are usually covered by the health insurance once their medical necessity has been documented.