Cost of Botox for Treating Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating (also known as hyperhidrosis) can be a very uncomfortable and humiliating medical condition. Excess perspiration can occur on many parts of the body including the armpits, palms, feet, back or the entire body itself. Botox injections are an effective treatment option which can help reduce the amount of sweating in localized areas. This article discusses the types of hyperhidrosis and the cost of Botox injections for treating the condition.

Treating Excessive Sweating in the Palms

When a person experiences large quantity of sweat build up in their palms, this is referred to as palmar hyperhidrosis. The condition can make everyday tasks such as typing on the computer or even opening a door difficult due to the hands becoming wet and slippery. It can also be embarrassing for the person in professional situations for example when trying to perform a handshake.

Botox can be injected into the hands to alleviate excessive palm sweating and typically requires 50 to 150 units per palm. This can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,500 for the complete procedure. Most cosmetic surgeons will start by using 50 units per palm, with the average cost of treatment being approximately $1,200. Botox prices per unit range between $10 and $15. Treating palm sweating with Botox injections lasts from 4 to 12 months with the treatment requiring repeat sessions after the affects wear off.

Excessive Feet Sweating

Also referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis, this occurs when excessive sweating is localized to the patient's feet. An overflow of sweat in the feet can cause them to become slippery when wearing certain types of shoe and can cause repugnant foot odor. Treating perspiring feet with Botox requires approximately 50 units per foot and lasts about 4 to 8 months. 50 units of Botox can make the treatment cost anywhere between $500 and $750 for each foot.

Over Sweating in the Armpits

Moist armpits can be the most embarrassing type of hyperhidrosis, since the sweat can penetrate clothing and permeate body odor throughout an entire room or office. Axillary hyperhidrosis can be treated with Botox injections, which typically lasts about 3 to 6 months. Depending on the size of the armpit, each will require anywhere between 80 and 150 units of Botox formula. This can cost a patient from $1,600 to $4,500 for treating both underarms.

When obtaining quotes for Botox injections for excessive sweating, be sure to consult a number of cosmetic or plastic surgeons to obtain the most favourable pricing. Each clinic has their own charges per unit and may also charge consultation fees in addition to the unit pricing. Others will charge a set amount for a vial (100 units), even when your treatment requires less formula. If you have health insurance coverage then most plans will usually cover the cost of Botox injections for hyperhidrosis as long as you have tried at least one other therapeutic remedy without success. If your budget is tight, you may seek alternative treatment options for reducing the sweat such as iontophoresis, oral medication, prescription strength antiperspirants and even over the counter antiperspirants.