miraDry

How it works

The doctor marks the treatment area and injects local anesthesia. A handpiece is then held against the skin. It delivers microwave energy to the layer where sweat glands sit, while cooling the skin surface. Sweat glands that are heated are damaged and do not regrow in the same way, but not every gland is reached, so some sweating remains. Some people also notice less underarm odor and hair growth. The effect varies by person, and some need a second session.

Who it may suit

• Underarm sweating that soaks clothing despite regular antiperspirant
• People who have tried topical products and want another option
• Those who prefer not to repeat injections every few months
• Anyone who can plan several quiet days after treatment
• People who have been told by a doctor that other causes of sweating are unlikely

The treatment day

1. Consultation and sweat history. The doctor asks where you sweat, how much, and for how long. They may ask about thyroid problems or medicines that increase sweating.
2. Marking the area. A template is placed on each underarm and the exact treatment zone is marked.
3. Local anesthesia. Numbing injections are given in the underarm skin. This is the part many people find most uncomfortable.
4. Microwave treatment. The handpiece is applied across the marked area in several passes. You feel pressure and warmth, with cooling between pulses.
5. Cold packs and instructions. Ice is applied, and you receive a written recovery sheet.

Aftercare

• Use cold packs as the doctor shows you for the first days.
• Avoid heavy exercise, lifting and stretching your arms until the doctor says it is fine.
• Take only the pain medicine the doctor suggests, and ask before using anti-inflammatory tablets.
• Keep the area clean and avoid shaving or deodorant until you are told it is safe.
• Photograph the area each day so you can show changes to a doctor at home.

Things to know first

• Swelling, tenderness, bruising and a feeling of tightness are expected for several days up to about two weeks.
• Temporary numbness or tingling in the underarm or upper arm can occur, and rarely lasts longer.
• Skin burns, blisters or lumps are possible and need a doctor's review.
• It is not suitable for everyone, for example if you have a pacemaker or other implanted device in the area, or are pregnant.
• It is a sweat reduction treatment, it may not stop sweating entirely.

Talking through miraDry in English

Because this treatment involves anesthesia and downtime, say your travel dates in your first message and ask how many recovery days the doctor usually advises. Flying with swollen arms is uncomfortable, and carrying luggage can be hard. Ask whether it would be wiser to do it early in the trip.

Use clear words for sweating. "Hyperhidrosis" is the medical term, but "heavy underarm sweating" is easy to translate. Tell the doctor if you sweat at night, if sweat is on other body parts as well, or if you have recently lost weight. These details help the doctor decide whether a medical check is needed first.

Ask for pain-relief instructions in writing, in English, with the names of any medicines. Make sure you know which medicines are suitable for you. If swelling or numbness continues after you fly home, show a local doctor your photos and the written notes.