Sweating is not the most pleasant topic of discussion, especially when it occurs excessively. It can leave you feeling self-conscious and embarrassed. Many do not realize that this is an actual medical condition. However, we can treat it. On the market today there are two minimally invasive treatments that are extremely popular: MiraDry and ThermiDry. However, many do not know the difference between these two technologies. We will discuss this throughout the article.
Excessive Sweating
The medical term for excessive sweating is hyperhidrosis, and it usually begins in childhood or early adolescence. It is necessary for the body to sweat in order to cool itself, and to prevent overheating. Yet, people who have hyperhidrosis sweat, even when the body does not need to be cool. Although this condition can affect any part of the body, the parts most commonly affected are the palms, soles, and axillae. This excessive sweating can hinder one’s everyday life. Hands can sweat so much that shaking hands with others causes great anxiety. Underarms can soak through clothes causing obvious sweat marks. Therefore, many seek out treatment to help alleviate their hyperhidrosis.
Treatment: MiraDry VS ThermiDry
MiraDry® and ThermiDry are the two popular treatments for excessive sweating out on the market today. However, there are some key differences that separate these treatments making one the clear winner:
- Technology Used– MiraDry uses microwave energy to destroy sweat glands, whereas ThermiDry delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the skin to destroy sweat glands. The radio-frequency energy used with ThermiDry has a higher percentage of sweat and odor prevention, and the result is much more prominent than MiraDry. When it comes to the different technologies, ThermiDry wins.
- Amount of Treatments– ThermiDry universally only requires one treatment, whereas MiraDry typically requires three or more. ThermiDry requires less time and is a better investment since procedures are typically around the same cost.
- Pain and Incisions– ThermiDry requires an incision. Yet, the incision is similar to the size of a pinhole making it almost non-existent. Therefore, many experience little to no discomfort or downtime. Here at WellMedica we encourage patients to continue their normal lives, and resume their daily routines after treatment. Unlike ThermiDry, MiraDry does not require an incision, and is typically advertised as a “non-invasive” treatment. Yet, it does require local anesthesia, because many experience pain after the procedure. For instance, Jason from RealSelf.com states that after the procedure, “Once I got home & the lidocaine began to wear off – I became very sore. Ice helps a lot.” So, even though ThermiDry does require an incision when MiraDry does not, one can expect less pain with ThermiDry. This is why here at WellMedica, we recommend ThermiDry for patients with excessive sweating.
ThermiDry at WellMedica
Our doctor performs ThermiDry at WellMedica, and the results are amazing. After local numbing, in order to ensure comfort, the doctor inserts a tiny ThermiDry probe underneath the skin and moves to the sweat glands. The area is then heated with radiofrequency energy to block nerves which then disables the sweat glands. Thermal Image Guidance is used to guide the procedure and insure skin safety. You should notice an IMMEDIATE reduction in sweating, and results lasting throughout time. Hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating, is a condition that effects both the physical and emotional. Instead of avoiding the problem, our patients who receive the treatment have dealt with it head on and could not be happier with their results.
To learn more about this treatment click here. Our Doctor, Dima Ali, meets with all of her patients prior to treatment and creates a customized treatment plan that is perfect for them, in order to achieve the best results possible. You can visit our office 1801 Robert Fulton Dr. Suite 540 Reston, VA 20191. Call (703) 787-9866 to set up a consultation with Board Certified Cosmetic Laser Surgeon Dr. Dima Ali. We look forward to seeing you!
