What Is Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) And How Is It Defined?
Excessive sweating, or its medical name hyperhidrosis, is the production of much more sweat than is necessary for the body’s temperature regulation. This condition is usually concentrated in specific areas such as the hands, feet, armpits, and face, and can seriously affect a person’s quality of daily life, social relationships, and professional career. Primary (or essential) hyperhidrosis occurs without an underlying medical cause and is associated with the overstimulation of the nervous system. Specialized centers in Istanbul offer a comprehensive evaluation to determine the intensity and type of sweating a person experiences, which is crucial for deciding on the correct treatment method and ensuring the highest success rate.
Why Should Hyperhidrosis Treatments Be Preferred In Istanbul?
Istanbul stands out with its modern facilities, world-renowned experts, and state-of-the-art devices for hyperhidrosis treatment. Thanks to Türkiye’s competitive pricing in health tourism, it is possible to receive treatments of similar quality to those in Europe or America at much more affordable costs. Furthermore, the convenience of having both minimally invasive procedures like Botulinum toxin injections and advanced surgical solutions like Miradry or Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS) offered under one roof provides great ease for foreign patients. Cure Holiday facilitates your communication with these high-standard facilities, streamlining your entire treatment process from start to finish.
What Is The Most Popular Method In Hyperhidrosis Treatment?
The most popular and frequently preferred method for hyperhidrosis treatment, particularly for underarm sweating, is Botulinum toxin injections. Botulinum toxin effectively stops excessive sweating by temporarily blocking the nerve signals sent to the sweat glands. It is highly favored by patients because it is minimally invasive, quick, and allows for an immediate return to daily life. It is ideal for individuals who are not ready for surgery or permanent solutions but are looking for a quick and reliable remedy for their sweating problem. Its high success rate and reliability make it the first choice for many patients globally.
How Does Botulinum Toxin Treatment Stop Excessive Sweating?
Botulinum toxin works by blocking the chemical signals (acetylcholine) transmitted from nerve cells to the sweat glands. Since the sweat glands cannot receive these signals, they cannot execute the command to produce sweat, and sweating ceases. This effect does not damage the sweat glands themselves but only temporarily suspends their function. It shows a high success rate, especially in localized hyperhidrosis areas such as the armpits, hands, and feet. Although the mechanism of action is simple, determining the correct dose and injection points is vital for the treatment’s effectiveness, and this is meticulously performed by experienced professionals in Istanbul.
Which Areas Can Botulinum Toxin Be Applied To?
Botulinum toxin injections can be safely applied to the areas most affected by excessive sweating and causing the most discomfort. The main application areas include the armpits, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes the face and hairline. The armpit is the area with the highest success rate for the application. For hand and foot applications, slightly higher doses or additional local anesthesia may be required due to the density of sweat glands and the thickness of the skin. The treatment plan must be personalized, taking into account the areas where the patient’s complaints are most intense.
How Long Does The Effect Of Botulinum Toxin Treatment Last?
The effect of Botulinum toxin treatment on excessive sweating is temporary and generally lasts between 6 and 12 months, although this varies from person to person. The duration of the effect depends on the amount of dose applied, the person’s metabolic rate, and the intensity of the sweating. As the effect diminishes, sweating gradually returns, and the patient needs to receive the injection again. Regular repetition of Botulinum toxin sessions is advised for sustained results. Specialists in Istanbul will usually determine the ideal timing for repetition to ensure you get the maximum benefit from the treatment.
Are Special Preparations Required Before The Treatment?
Before excessive sweating treatment, a few simple preparatory steps are recommended, especially for underarm Botulinum toxin application. Patients are asked to shave their underarm hair 24 to 48 hours before the application and to stop using deodorants or antiperspirant products, which may reduce the effectiveness of the toxin. Furthermore, blood-thinning medications (aspirin, certain painkillers) and alcohol consumption should be stopped a few days prior to reduce the risk of bruising. These simple preparations directly impact the comfort of the application and the success of the results.
Is Pain Felt During The Treatment?
The pain felt during Botulinum toxin injections is generally in the form of a mild and instantaneous sting. Especially in underarm applications, the pain threshold is comfortably tolerable due to the low sensitivity of the area. In more sensitive areas such as the hands and feet, local anesthetic cream or injections may be used before the procedure to ensure patient comfort. Experienced professionals aim to complete the procedure in the most comfortable way by using fast and accurate injection techniques, minimizing any potential discomfort for the patient.
How Long Does One Botulinum Toxin Session Last?
Botulinum toxin treatment for excessive sweating is an extremely fast and practical procedure. An underarm Botulinum toxin session, including preparation and injection time, usually lasts only 15 to 30 minutes. For larger and more sensitive areas such as the hands or feet, this duration may slightly increase due to the waiting time for anesthesia and the required precision of the injections. The short duration of the treatment is a great advantage for patients traveling to Istanbul with limited time, as they can quickly continue with their sightseeing plans.
How Many Application Sessions Are Required?
In Botulinum toxin treatment, generally a single session is sufficient to control the problem of excessive sweating. The injection, once it starts to take effect, stops sweating for 6 to 12 months. Therefore, this is not a treatment that requires repeated sessions in the form of a “course.” However, maintenance sessions are recommended (usually once a year) when the patient feels the sweating returning, to sustain the effect. For those seeking permanent solutions, alternatives like Miradry or ETS can be considered and discussed with the medical team.
How Does Miradry Treatment Work And Who Is It Suitable For?
Miradry is a non-invasive and permanent treatment method that targets underarm sweat glands. The device uses controlled microwave energy to permanently heat and eliminate the sweat glands while simultaneously cooling and protecting the top layer of the skin. This treatment is suitable for healthy individuals who specifically suffer from underarm excessive sweating and related bad odor (bromhidrosis) and are looking for a more lasting result than Botulinum toxin. The treatment’s proven success and reliability have made it a popular option in Istanbul’s leading aesthetic centers.
Does Miradry Offer A Permanent Solution?
Yes, Miradry treatment has the potential to offer a permanent solution for excessive sweating. Since the destroyed sweat glands do not regenerate, patients generally experience a significant and permanent reduction in underarm sweating (an average of 80-90% reduction) after just one course. Rarely, a second session may be needed to achieve the fully desired result. This permanence, unlike Botulinum toxin treatment, eliminates the annual cost and hassle of repetition, making it a very attractive option for patients who are thinking long-term about their condition.
Is Miradry Treatment Applied Only To The Armpit?
Yes, Miradry technology and the device are designed specifically only for the underarm area and cannot be applied to other body areas (hands, feet, face). The main reason for this is that the principle of the device, which uses microwave energy to destroy sweat glands, is optimized according to the anatomical structure of the armpit and the density of the sweat glands in that area. For excessive sweating in areas other than the armpit, different treatment methods such as Botulinum toxin injections or iontophoresis should be evaluated and chosen accordingly.
Is Anesthesia Used During The Miradry Application?
Yes, to ensure patient comfort during the Miradry application, a local anesthesia injection is administered to the underarm area to be treated. This anesthesia prevents the patient from feeling any pain or discomfort while the microwave energy is applied to the sweat glands. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the procedure begins, and patients may only feel a slight pulling or vacuum sensation. Thanks to the anesthesia, the application is completed painlessly, and patients can return home immediately after the procedure is finished.
What Is Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS)?
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS) is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of excessive sweating, often providing a permanent solution for hand sweating (palmar hyperhidrosis). In this minimally invasive operation, the sympathetic nerve chain parts that stimulate the sweat glands are blocked or cut through small incisions in the chest cavity. ETS is considered a last resort in cases where other treatments have failed or in very severe sweating cases. Experienced surgical teams in Istanbul perform this complex procedure with high safety standards.
In Which Cases Should ETS Surgery Be Considered?
ETS surgery should generally be considered in severe hyperhidrosis cases where other conservative and minimally invasive treatments (Botulinum toxin, iontophoresis) have been insufficient. It stands out as a permanent solution, especially in cases of continuously wet and dripping hand sweating (palmar hyperhidrosis) that severely negatively affects social and psychological life. The potential complications of the surgery, especially the risk of compensatory sweating, must be discussed in detail with the patient. Specialists in Istanbul will help you decide if ETS is right for you by performing a thorough risk-benefit analysis.
How Is Iontophoresis Treatment Used For Hand And Foot Sweating?
Iontophoresis is a needle-free and painless method used to treat excessive sweating in the hands and feet. The treatment is carried out by immersing the sweating areas in a container of water to which a low electrical current is applied. This low-level electric current temporarily blocks the opening of the sweat glands, reducing sweat production. Regular sessions (initially a few times a week) are required for the treatment’s effectiveness, but it is a practical solution as it can also be applied at home. Iontophoresis is considered a first-line treatment for those seeking an alternative to Botulinum toxin, especially for hand sweating.
How Regularly Should Iontophoresis Treatment Be Done?
In the initial phase of iontophoresis treatment, it is usually recommended to apply 20 to 30-minute sessions, 3 to 5 times a week, to bring sweating under control. Once the sweating drops to the desired level, the frequency of sessions is reduced to maintain the results. This maintenance period can generally be reduced to 1 to 3 sessions per week. The biggest challenge of the treatment is the necessity of regular and continuous application. Cure Holiday provides support regarding the necessary device and instructions so you can continue the treatment at home after receiving the initial guidance in Istanbul.
When Do Treatment Results Start To Be Seen?
The time it takes to see results varies depending on the treatment method. The effect of Botulinum toxin injections usually begins within 2 to 7 days, and the full effect appears after 2 weeks. In Miradry treatment, results are seen immediately, and the final effect emerges as the healing process continues over time. With Iontophoresis, the first results are usually noticed after 1-2 weeks of regular use. In ETS surgery, the results are apparent immediately after the operation. Achieving quick results helps boost patients’ motivation and adherence to the treatment plan.
Can Daily Life Be Resumed Immediately After Treatment?
After minimally invasive treatments like Botulinum toxin and Miradry, patients can usually return to their daily lives immediately or within a few hours. While slight bruising or sensitivity may occur after Botulinum toxin, swelling and numbness may be seen after Miradry, but these do not restrict activity. Since ETS surgery is more invasive, the patient may generally need to stay in the hospital for one day and avoid heavy physical activities for a few days. This rapid recovery period offers patients traveling to Istanbul the opportunity for sightseeing after treatment.
What Are The Possible Side Effects Or Risks?
As with any medical procedure, there are possible side effects and risks associated with hyperhidrosis treatments. For Botulinum toxin, temporary bruising, swelling, and rarely muscle weakness (in hand/foot Botulinum toxin) may occur. Temporary swelling, numbness, and tenderness are common after Miradry. The most significant risk of ETS surgery is compensatory sweating, which means sweating shifts to another area of the body, and this can be permanent. These potential risks must be evaluated in detail with an expert professional when selecting the appropriate treatment.
What Are The Lifestyle Factors That Increase Treatment Success?
To increase treatment success and extend the duration of the effect, it is important to pay attention to certain lifestyle factors. Stress management is a significant factor triggering hyperhidrosis, so methods like meditation or yoga to reduce stress levels are beneficial. It is also recommended to avoid triggers that increase sweating, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, and to drink plenty of water. Adopting these simple lifestyle changes is an integral part of the treatment, ensuring the comfort achieved through the treatment is long-lasting.
How Are Treatment Costs Determined In Istanbul?
Hyperhidrosis treatment costs in Istanbul vary significantly based on the chosen method and the number of sessions required. For example, Botulinum toxin injections are usually priced per session, while Miradry and ETS surgeries are more comprehensive, one-time costs. The quality of materials used, the technological infrastructure of the facility, and the experience of the practitioner also influence pricing. The most accurate and transparent cost information can be obtained through Cure Holiday after your individual treatment plan has been created and confirmed by the medical team.
How Does Cure Holiday Provide Support In This Process?
Cure Holiday offers a comprehensive service that manages the entire hyperhidrosis treatment process in Istanbul for international patients. This service includes critical steps such as identifying the most reliable and well-equipped facilities, selecting the correct treatment method (Botulinum toxin, Miradry, ETS) through medical history assessment, and planning appointments and travel. Your logistical needs, such as accommodation, airport transfers, and language support, are also organized by Cure Holiday, allowing you to focus only on your treatment and enjoying Istanbul.
What Is The Appointment Process Through Cure Holiday?
The appointment process through Cure Holiday is extremely transparent and easy. Firstly, a detailed preliminary consultation about your excessive sweating complaints is conducted via online form or telephone. Your medical file (if available) is reviewed, and then a customized proposal containing the most suitable treatment options is offered to you. When you accept the proposal, Cure Holiday finalizes your treatment appointments and arranges your travel and accommodation. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, a dedicated guide accompanies you throughout the entire process.
Which Season Is Most Suitable For Treatment?
Excessive sweating treatments can generally be performed at any time of the year, but treatments like Botulinum toxin and Miradry are recommended to be performed during the autumn or winter months when the sun is less intense. It is especially important that any sensitivity or bruising that may occur after Botulinum toxin does not come into contact with the sun. Additionally, allowing enough time for treatments like Miradry to fully take effect and for the skin to heal before the summer months arrive is more comfortable for patients. Cure Holiday will assist you in planning your travel and treatment schedule according to the most suitable seasons.
Can People With Chronic Illnesses Have The Treatment Done?
Whether people with chronic illnesses can receive hyperhidrosis treatment depends on the type of illness and the treatment method. For example, Botulinum toxin treatment is contraindicated in some neuromuscular diseases such as Myasthenia Gravis. Serious heart or lung diseases may pose an obstacle for ETS surgery. Therefore, it is essential that all chronic illnesses and medications used, such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders, are shared in detail with the specialist doctor before starting any treatment plan.
Does Sweating Treatment Permanently Stop Sweating?
This depends on the treatment method chosen. Botulinum toxin treatment temporarily stops sweating (for 6-12 months). In contrast, Miradry treatment offers a very long-lasting or permanent solution as it permanently destroys the sweat glands in the armpit. ETS surgery can be a permanent solution, especially for hand sweating, but there is a risk of causing compensatory sweating in another area of the body. Permanence expectation is one of the most important criteria when selecting the appropriate treatment option.
What Is The Shift Of Sweating To Another Area (Compensatory Sweating)?
Compensatory sweating is when excessive sweating begins in another area of the body (usually the back, abdomen, chest, or groin) instead of the area where sweating was surgically stopped (especially with ETS surgery) when the body’s sweating mechanism is disrupted. This is the most significant and sometimes permanent side effect of ETS surgery. The risk is negligible with localized treatments like Botulinum toxin or Miradry. It is critical that patients considering ETS fully understand this potential risk and discuss it thoroughly with the specialists in Istanbul.
Is A Single Treatment Method Sufficient Or Is A Combination Required?
Treatment is planned according to the severity and the areas affected by hyperhidrosis. Generally, a single method like Botulinum toxin or Miradry for the armpit is sufficient, while a combination of methods like Botulinum toxin and Iontophoresis may be required if hand and foot sweating problems are present. If hand sweating is very severe and other treatments are insufficient, ETS surgery alone can provide a permanent solution. The treatment plan is personalized by specialists to create the most effective combination based on the patient’s needs and lifestyle.
Does Insurance Cover Treatment Costs?
Whether insurance covers the costs of excessive sweating treatments depends on the patient’s insurance policy, the healthcare system of their country of residence, and whether hyperhidrosis is considered a medical problem (a life-impairing condition). Generally, treatments seen as aesthetic, such as Botulinum toxin, are not covered, while surgical methods like ETS surgery or some Miradry applications may be partially or fully covered by insurance if medical necessity is documented. Cure Holiday can assist international patients in obtaining information about their insurance processes and potential coverage.
How Should The Treated Area Be Cared For?
Care for the treated area varies according to the applied method. After Botulinum toxin, it is important to avoid hot water, excessive sweating, and rubbing the area for 24 hours. After Miradry, applying ice for the first few days and using prescribed pain relievers help manage swelling and sensitivity. Iontophoresis requires moisturizing the skin afterward. In general, keeping the area clean and strictly following specialist instructions is essential for a fast and smooth recovery process.
What Are The Sweating Treatment Options For Children And Adolescents?
Excessive sweating treatment in children and adolescents usually begins with more conservative methods. Initially, prescription-strength topical antiperspirants can be tried. If these methods are insufficient, Iontophoresis is a safe option for hand and foot sweating. Botulinum toxin injections can also be used safely in adolescents and children when necessary, but the dosage and application areas are adjusted meticulously. Permanent and invasive solutions like ETS surgery are generally postponed until growth and development are complete, prioritizing the patient’s safety.
Is Sweating Treatment Only For Aesthetic Purposes?
No, excessive sweating treatment is generally not only for aesthetic purposes; its main goal is to solve a medical and psychosocial problem. Hyperhidrosis increases the risk of fungal and bacterial infections due to the skin being constantly moist and can cause severe skin irritation. More importantly, it leads to shame, anxiety, and isolation in social settings, deeply affecting the person’s quality of life and mental health. Therefore, the treatment is a necessity aimed at improving the person’s physical health and psychological well-being.
Why Is Istanbul Attractive To Patients From Abroad?
Istanbul is a unique attraction for patients from abroad, combining economical costs, expert medical staff, and a rich cultural experience. Patients can receive high-quality treatment at European standards for much more competitive prices. They also have the opportunity to spend the rest and recovery periods during the treatment process exploring one of the world’s most impressive historical and cultural cities. All accommodation and logistical support provided by Cure Holiday make this experience flawless and stress-free.
