New miraDry uses microwave technology to stop the sweating

PALM HARBOR, Fla - Dermatologist Amy Ross is measuring Karen's armpit.  It's all part of a demonstration of the newest tool to stop excessive sweating, called miraDry.  The FDA approved the technology about six months ago.

Dr. Amy Ross, of Palm Harbor Dermatology, explains.  “It’s actually a microwave technology. So the microwave is heat and it actually destroys the sweat glands under your arms only, which is a small percentage of the sweat glands we have in our bodies, so we find it doesn't do anything to stop your ability to perspire anywhere else.”

Doctor Ross says two treatments and you should no longer be staining your clothes or needing deodorant.  Each treatment lasts about an hour, with injections of local anesthetic followed by heat delivery using this wand.

It's not cheap - about $3,000 - and insurance doesn't cover it, but Dr. Ross invested in the machine because, “Typically these patients have been treated with Botox and a lot of these insurance companies have backed off treating with Botox as well.  We've treated patients as young as 13 and its been life-changing for them as far as activity goes.”

Both men and woman are trying it - the worst part, patients say, is getting injected with local anesthetic.  But the doctor says risks are minimal with no chance of the heat burning your skin.

For more information, visit www.miraDry.com or www.palmharbordermatology.com .