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Microwave Thermolysis for Excessive Sweating
Microwave thermolysis is a revolutionary new treatment for patients suffering from hyperhidrosis, which is excessive sweating. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved this treatment in January 2011 for treatment of excessive sweating in the underarm area. Johns Hopkins is the first hospital in Maryland to treat patients using this system.
What is microwave thermolysis?
The system works by directing energy at the sweat glands in the underarm. By destroying the sweat glands in the underarm, excessive sweating in that area stops immediately. Only 2% of the sweat glands in the body are located in the underarm area, so destroying them in this area does not affect the body’s ability to cool.

What should I expect during the procedure?
Before the procedure, your doctor will numb the underarm area. Then your underarm skin is lifted into the system and microwave energy is directed to the sweat glands. The procedure typically takes an hour and involves no incisions or cuts; you should not feel any discomfort. After two treatments in our center, 95% of patients report a significant reduction in underarm sweat.
Will insurance cover the procedure?
As of now, insurance does not cover microwave thermolysis for excessive sweating.