Get the facts on diseases, conditions, tests and procedures.
Enter the last name, specialty or keyword for your search below.
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.
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.
Dr. Malcolm Brock treats a patient’s underarm sweating using microwave thermolysis.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.
As of now, insurance does not cover microwave thermolysis for excessive sweating.
Request an Appointment
Traveling for Care?
Whether you're crossing the country or the globe, we make it easy to access world-class care at Johns Hopkins.
Outside of Maryland (toll free)
410-464-6713
Request an Appointment
Medical Concierge Services
International Patients
+1-410-502-7683
Request an Appointment
Medical Concierge Services
Language Assistance Available:
© The Johns Hopkins University, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Health System. All rights reserved.
