This page is supervised and written by specialist physicians at IC Clinic.
miraDry Treatment: A Complete Guide
miraDry: Effects, Pricing, and What to Know Before Your Treatment
miraDry is an innovative treatment for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis that addresses these conditions without surgery.
With conventional treatments for underarm sweating, odor, and Hyperhidrosis, many patients have been concerned about the time required for surgery or the possibility of scarring.
miraDry, however, can be completed in a single session and leaves no scarring, making it an increasingly popular treatment option.
This article covers miraDry’s treatment approach, costs, and important points to be aware of beforehand.
If you are considering miraDry treatment, we hope you will find this a helpful reference.
This content is supervised by specialist physicians at IC Clinic.
- We provide specialist treatment focused on results
- We propose treatment plans tailored to each patient’s symptoms and preferences
- Minimizing discomfort and achieving clean outcomes
- A welcoming clinic where patients of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable consulting us
Meet the Doctors and Staff at IC Clinic
We have been named “Top Japan miraDry Provider” for two consecutive years
We are pleased to announce that our clinic has been selected as the “Top Japan miraDry Provider 2023” by Miramar Labs, the U.S.-based manufacturer of miraDry. This marks our second consecutive year receiving this award, following our 2022 recognition.
This award recognizes the highest annual sales of miraDry tips (a single-use medical device used per patient) within Japan, and reflects the trust so many patients have placed in our clinic.
With deep gratitude to all the patients who have chosen our miraDry treatment, we remain committed to pursuing even higher standards of medical care and patient satisfaction going forward.
We propose treatment plans suited to each individual patient and provide care with a focus on results.
We take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and symptoms, so please book a consultation using the button below.
Why miraDry Is a Recommended Option for Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis
miraDry treats the affected area with microwave energy to destroy the apocrine sweat glands responsible for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis).
As a treatment for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis, miraDry requires no surgical incisions and leaves no scarring, and can be completed in a single session — reasons why more and more patients are choosing this approach.
Below, we outline the specific reasons why miraDry has become such a preferred option.
Reason 1: Long-lasting effects
Because sweat glands destroyed by miraDry do not regenerate, a single treatment session can provide long-lasting benefits.
This means repeated clinic visits are generally unnecessary, saving patients a significant amount of time.
Since the treatment typically only needs to be done once, there are also no ongoing costs as there would be with botulinum toxin injections or continued medication.
Reason 2: High safety profile due to selective targeting of sweat glands
The microwave energy used in miraDry is designed to react specifically with the moisture-rich sweat glands, without affecting surrounding tissues or nerves.
A specialized cooling system also keeps the treatment area cool throughout the procedure, minimizing the risk of skin inflammation such as burns.
With minimal impact on both the skin surface and underlying tissue, miraDry is considered a treatment option with a favorable safety profile.
Reason 3: Addresses both Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis
miraDry is effective not only for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) but also for Hyperhidrosis.
Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis involve different types of sweat glands.
- Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) … Apocrine sweat glands
- Hyperhidrosis … Eccrine sweat glands
Because miraDry destroys both types of sweat glands simultaneously, it can address both Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis in a single session.
For Hyperhidrosis, many patients notice an improvement of around 70% or more compared to before treatment.
Reason 4: No incisions mean no scarring and relatively short downtime
Until now, surgical removal of sweat glands through incision was the standard treatment for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis).
miraDry, however, delivers microwave energy to the treatment area without making any incisions, meaning there is minimal impact on the skin and relatively short post-treatment downtime.
Patients can resume their normal daily activities on the day of treatment, and because no surgical incisions are made, there is no scarring that others might notice.
Reason 5: Approved by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
miraDry is a scientifically validated treatment approved by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug
Administration)*.
Among devices for treating underarm sweating, miraDry is the only one to have received approval from both Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the U.S. FDA.
Having received regulatory approval, miraDry can be considered a treatment whose safety has been recognized by the authorities.
*The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the government agency equivalent to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
How Does miraDry Work? The Mechanism Behind Its Effects on Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis
We hope the above has given you a clear picture of the benefits of miraDry.
In this section, we explain how the treatment works and why it is effective for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis.
Let’s walk through the process in three steps.
STEP 1: Microwave energy is delivered to two types of sweat glands
First, miraDry delivers microwave energy to the sweat glands.
There are two types of sweat glands — eccrine and apocrine — each secreting sweat with different compositions.
- Eccrine sweat glands … Secrete sweat that is approximately 98% water. Generally does not produce noticeable odor.
- Apocrine sweat glands … Secrete sweat containing iron, fatty acids, ammonia, and other components. Slightly viscous; the source of the characteristic odor associated with Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis).
STEP 2: Microwave energy reaches the sweat glands
When microwave energy reaches the moisture-rich sweat glands, it causes thermal destruction.
miraDry is designed to target only the eccrine and apocrine sweat glands, without causing damage to other surrounding tissue.
STEP 3: Simultaneous cooling during energy delivery
miraDry is equipped with a specialized cooling system called “hydroCeramic cooling,” which cools the treatment area at the same time as the microwave energy is delivered.
This helps reduce discomfort during treatment and protects surrounding tissues from heat damage.
Through these three steps, miraDry destroys the sweat glands that cause Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis.
How Long Do miraDry’s Effects Last?
miraDry is a treatment for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis with the potential for long-lasting benefits.
Because destroyed sweat glands do not regenerate, repeat treatments are generally not necessary, and improvement is typically achieved in a single session.
However, results vary among individuals, and in rare cases of severe Underarm Odor, a second treatment session may be recommended.
What Does miraDry Cost? A Comparison with Other Treatment Options
Compared to other treatments, miraDry tends to involve higher costs in many cases.
As a relatively newer treatment option that is not covered by public health insurance, miraDry is a self-pay procedure, which means a greater out-of-pocket expense for patients.
However, compared to conventional surgical treatment, miraDry offers significant advantages including a shorter procedure time and no scarring.
Botulinum toxin injections are a more accessible option, but their effects are limited to around 4–6 months. In contrast, the benefits of miraDry are long-lasting, so repeat treatments are generally not required.
Below is a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of different treatment options for Hyperhidrosis and Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis).
| miraDry | Botulinum Toxin Injection | Surgical Treatment | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment approach | Microwave energy is delivered to destroy the sweat glands in the treatment area | A botulinum toxin preparation is injected into the area causing the problem | The affected area is surgically incised to remove the apocrine glands responsible |
| Suitable for | Moderate to severe Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) / Hyperhidrosis | Mild Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) / Hyperhidrosis | Severe Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) / Hyperhidrosis |
| Procedure time | Approx. 60 minutes | Approx. 10 minutes | Approx. 2–3 hours |
| Duration of effects | Long-lasting | 4–6 months | Long-lasting |
| Approximate cost | ¥200,000–¥400,000 | From ¥30,000 | Insurance-covered: ¥20,000–¥70,000 / Non-covered: ¥60,000–¥200,000 |
| Scarring | None | None | Scarring of approx. 2–4 cm |
| Downtime | Some, but relatively minimal | None | Yes |
| Advantages | ・No scarring・Both Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis can be treated in one session・Long-lasting effects・Favorable safety profile・Relatively minimal downtime | ・Short procedure time・Minimal downtime | ・Long-lasting effects・Skin flap surgery may be covered by insurance |
| Disadvantages | ・Higher cost | ・Effects do not last long・Results may take time to appear・Some discomfort from the injection | ・Downtime involved・Higher cost |
It is important to choose a treatment that you are comfortable with, taking into account not only the cost but also the treatment details and what to expect afterward.
If You Have Cost Concerns, Please Consult IC Clinic
If you are thinking about miraDry treatment but are unsure about the cost, please feel free to consult IC Clinic.
We will suggest a treatment plan that suits your symptoms and circumstances, at a pace that works for you.
We also offer price reductions through limited-time campaigns and weekday treatment slots.
Please take advantage of these opportunities as you consider moving forward with your treatment.
4 Important Things to Know Before miraDry Treatment | Side Effects and Downtime
While miraDry is a treatment with a favorable safety profile, it is natural to have some concerns before undergoing the procedure.
However, knowing in advance what to expect regarding discomfort and how the treatment may affect your daily life can help you approach it with confidence.
Below, we cover five key things to know before having miraDry treatment.
We also share how IC Clinic approaches each of these aspects, so please use this as a helpful reference.
(1) Is there pain during the miraDry procedure?
Because anesthesia is used during miraDry treatment, most patients do not feel pain while the microwave energy is being delivered.
However, some patients do find the pre-treatment anesthetic injections uncomfortable.
The anesthesia technique also affects not only safety but also how well miraDry’s effects are achieved, making the skill and approach of the treating physician an important factor.
IC Clinic’s approach to anesthesia
At IC Clinic, we adjust the concentration and fluid volume of the anesthetic based on each patient’s individual condition, including skin thickness and the size of the underarm area.
Fluid volume in particular is considered a critical factor in ensuring safety and optimizing treatment outcomes, and it is the aspect we pay the most careful attention to during the anesthesia process.
We also use a powered injection device and vibration tool during the injection to help minimize discomfort as much as possible.
(2) Are there side effects such as swelling or pain with miraDry?
Some patients may experience the following side effects immediately after treatment.
- Pain and swelling
- Uneven, bumpy skin texture
- Reduction in underarm hair
- Temporary bruising from the anesthetic injections
- A sensation of tightness
However, these symptoms are temporary in nature, and there are no known side effects that persist indefinitely, so patients can proceed with treatment with peace of mind.
※ In very rare cases, persistent skin redness, pain, raised or hardened skin, or ulcer formation may occur. However, according to clinical trial data from the manufacturer, these have been reported to resolve over time. This is a phenomenon that may occur in a certain proportion of patients due to individual physiology and condition, and cannot always be avoided.
At IC Clinic, we use a treatment approach adapted for Japanese patients to help minimize side effects
As miraDry was originally developed with Western physiology in mind, applying it directly to Japanese patients carried a risk of side effects such as swelling and numbness.
However, by introducing miraDry early and accumulating extensive clinical experience, our clinic has refined our approach — adjusting the anesthesia technique, energy output, and treatment area — making it possible to significantly reduce the risk of side effects for Japanese patients.
Some of our staff members have personally undergone miraDry treatment and are able to share their firsthand experiences. We are happy to address any questions you may have, such as “Does it hurt?” or “Will it swell?”, and provide attentive care should any symptoms arise after treatment.
(3) How much downtime is involved with miraDry? Will it affect daily life?
Immediately after the miraDry procedure, the anesthesia will still be in effect, so patients typically do not notice any pain or discomfort at that point.
However, as the anesthesia wears off, some patients may experience a stinging sensation or a feeling of tightness in the skin.
On the day of treatment, please avoid soaking in a bath to help keep swelling and discomfort to a minimum.
Swelling and discomfort typically peak within about one day after treatment. As long as you take care in how you spend the recovery period, the impact on daily life is generally minimal, and most patients find the discomfort resolves within around two weeks.
| Pain | We will prescribe pain relief medication (at no extra charge). Please take it as needed. |
|---|---|
| Post-treatment recovery | Swelling, pain, and discomfort: 3–4 weeks / Hardness or lumps: 4–6 weeks / Hair reduction: long-term / Numbness or changes in sensation: 1–12 weeks / Small blisters or rash: several weeks |
| Follow-up check-ups | Available (at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment). We will monitor your recovery progress at each visit. ※The same schedule applies for second treatment sessions. (At our clinic, we recommend a two-session course to help achieve a higher level of results.) |
IC Clinic is committed to comprehensive post-treatment support
One of miraDry’s greatest advantages is that the treatment is completed in a single session and follow-up visits are generally not required, making it a far more accessible option compared to many other procedures.
That said, some patients may experience lingering pain or swelling, so at IC Clinic, we provide post-treatment check-up consultations at no charge to help ease any concerns you may have.
For patients who find it difficult to come in for follow-up visits, we also offer remote support via email.
(4) Can miraDry treatment be unsuccessful, or can symptoms recur?
In some cases, a single miraDry session may not be fully sufficient, and some odor may remain after treatment.
To help minimize the likelihood of suboptimal outcomes, it is important that the procedure is carried out properly — including the appropriate energy output and treatment area coverage — to draw out the full potential of miraDry.
Once Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) symptoms have resolved following miraDry treatment, recurrence is generally not expected. As long as the sweat glands responsible for odor have been effectively destroyed, the benefits are expected to be long-lasting.
At IC Clinic, we treat with maximum output over a wide coverage area
Two key factors in achieving the full benefits of miraDry treatment are the coverage area (size) and the energy output (intensity).
At our clinic, we treat as wide a coverage area as possible at the maximum output level. This approach is designed to aim for the greatest possible result in a single session.
The miraDry Treatment Process at IC Clinic
The procedure itself takes approximately one hour. Including anesthesia and changing, the total time required is around two hours.
While individual results vary, many patients notice an improvement from the day of treatment.
Below, we walk through the actual treatment steps.
STEP 1 Consultation (30 minutes)
During the consultation, we assess your symptoms and check the severity of your Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis).
Please feel free to ask about any concerns you have — we want to make sure you are fully comfortable before proceeding with treatment.
STEP 2 Marking the treatment area (20 minutes)
Once the treatment area has been determined, the targeted area is carefully marked to ensure accurate targeting of the sweat glands.
STEP 3 Local anesthesia (10 minutes)
After marking is complete, local anesthesia is administered at multiple points.
The anesthetic typically takes effect within 5–10 minutes.
STEP 4 miraDry energy delivery (approx. 1 hour)
Once the anesthetic has taken effect, energy delivery begins.
The handpiece is placed against the skin following the markings, drawing the skin upward and delivering microwave energy to the target area.
With local anesthesia in place, most patients experience little to no pain, though some may feel a mild tingling or prickling sensation.
If you experience significant discomfort, please do not hesitate to let us know.
STEP 5 Cooling the treatment area (15 minutes)
Finally, the treated area is cooled to help prevent swelling and inflammation caused by the microwave energy, completing the procedure.
Including the consultation, the total time for a miraDry session is approximately one and a half to two hours.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About miraDry
Finally, here are answers to some common questions about miraDry. If you still have any concerns, please take a look.
miraDry carries minimal risk and can be performed on elementary and middle school-aged children.
However, there are weight restrictions for the administration of local anesthesia, so please contact us for more details. Whether miraDry is appropriate will be determined following a consultation with our physician.
miraDry can also be effective for areolar osmidrosis and genital (groin area) osmidrosis.
Please note that not all clinics offer treatment for genital osmidrosis, so it is worth confirming in advance.
Following miraDry treatment, some reduction in underarm hair may occur.
Any hair that is lost as a result will not grow back. That said, it is not the majority of hairs that are affected — only a small number may stop growing.
For men, the reduction is generally so minimal that it is barely noticeable.
The same applies to women — only a very small proportion of underarm hair may stop growing.
As long as there are no significant issues with the skin, miraDry can still be performed even if you have previously had surgery for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) at another clinic.
A thorough consultation will be conducted before any retreatment. We will typically ask about the time elapsed since your previous surgery and what aspects of the outcome you were not satisfied with before making a decision.
miraDry destroys approximately 70–80% of the sweat glands in total.
Sweat glands that were not fully destroyed during treatment may temporarily become dormant, but it is reported that they can resume activity over time, which may cause some patients to feel that sweat and odor have returned.
However, sweat glands that have been destroyed will not regenerate.
There is a possibility that some odor may remain even after a second miraDry treatment.
However, many patients notice improvement after either their first or second miraDry session, and cases of recurrence are very rare.
Swelling and pain in the treated area tend to peak on the day of treatment and the following day.
In general, most patients find that discomfort resolves within approximately two weeks. If pain persists, try applying an ice pack to the area until relief is felt.
If symptoms do not improve, we recommend consulting your physician.
Because sweat glands that have been destroyed by miraDry do not regenerate, the treatment is expected to provide long-lasting benefits.
Therefore, repeat treatment after a specific period of time — such as five years — is generally not necessary.
The effects of miraDry treatment are generally considered to settle around three to six months after the procedure.
However, individual experiences vary, and it is difficult to make a definitive statement that applies to everyone.
Because miraDry destroys sweat glands without making any incisions, lasting complications are generally not expected.
However, some patients may experience persistent skin redness, pain, raised or hardened skin, or ulcer formation after treatment.
According to clinical trial data from the manufacturer, these have been reported to resolve over time, so please be reassured.
miraDry is an approved device by both Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)*, and its safety and efficacy as a treatment have been officially recognized.
vShape (ViewHot), on the other hand, is an unapproved device, meaning its safety and efficacy have not been officially verified. For this reason, our clinic uses miraDry for the treatment of Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis.
*The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the government agency equivalent to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
For miraDry Treatment, Please Consult IC Clinic
In this article, we have provided a detailed explanation of miraDry’s effects and treatment approach.
miraDry is a treatment option well suited to Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) and Hyperhidrosis. Its key advantages are that the treatment can be completed in a single session and leaves no scarring.
If you still have any concerns about miraDry treatment, please feel free to consult IC Clinic. As a specialist clinic, we are happy to address any questions, no matter how small.
IC Clinic is an officially certified miraDry provider
IC Clinic is certified as an official medical institution authorized to offer miraDry treatment.
Conventional treatment involved surgically removing sweat glands (the cells that produce sweat), but the newer miraDry treatment uses the latest equipment to achieve the remarkable outcome of destroying the sweat glands without any incision.
However, despite its high efficacy and low barrier to treatment, awareness and adoption of miraDry in Japan cannot yet be said to be fully sufficient.
With that in mind, the “Specialist Physician Group for miraDry Treatment of Hyperhidrosis and Underarm Odor” was established with the aim of promoting the non-surgical miraDry treatment and working toward making it the standard of care in Japan.
IC Clinic is a central clinic within this specialist physician group. Working in collaboration with major university and general hospitals in central Tokyo, we aim to continue building our clinical expertise and to lead the efforts toward further innovation and improvement in care that will allow us to serve all our patients to the highest standard.
We propose treatment plans suited to each individual patient and provide care with a focus on results.
We take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and symptoms, so please book a consultation using the button below.
