miraDry Treatment in Tokyo (Shinjuku)
What Is miraDry? Effects, Pricing, and Pre-Treatment Precautions
miraDry is an innovative treatment that addresses underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis without surgery.
With conventional treatments for underarm sweating, odor, and hyperhidrosis, many patients were concerned about lengthy procedure times and visible scarring.
However, miraDry can be completed in a single day and leaves no scarring, making it an increasingly popular treatment option for many people.
This article covers the miraDry treatment process, costs, and important precautions you should know.
If you are considering miraDry treatment, we hope this information will be helpful.
This article is supervised by a specialist physician at IC Clinic.
- We provide specialist treatments focused on results.
- We propose treatment plans tailored to each patient’s condition and preferences.
- Minimizing discomfort and keeping the skin looking its best!
- Our clinic welcomes patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Selected as a “Top Japan miraDry Provider” for Three Consecutive Years
We are pleased to announce that our clinic has been selected as a “Top Japan miraDry Provider 2023” by Miramar Labs, the U.S.-based manufacturer of the miraDry device. This marks our third consecutive year receiving this recognition, following our 2022 award.
This award recognizes the clinic with the highest annual sales volume of miraDry chips (the single-use medical device used per patient) in Japan. It is a direct result of the trust so many patients have placed in our clinic.
We are deeply grateful to all patients who have chosen our miraDry service, and we remain committed to pursuing an even higher standard of medical care and patient satisfaction going forward.
Our clinic proposes treatment approaches suited to each individual patient and delivers results-focused care.
We take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.
Why miraDry Is Recommended for Underarm Odor (Axillary Osmidrosis) & Hyperhidrosis Treatment
miraDry uses microwave energy directed at the treatment area to destroy the apocrine sweat glands responsible for underarm odor.
As a treatment for underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis, miraDry leaves no surgical scarring and can be completed in a single day, which has led to growing interest in this option.
Below, we outline the specific reasons why miraDry is chosen by so many patients.
Reason 1: Long-lasting effects
Because the sweat glands destroyed by miraDry do not regenerate, a single treatment session may offer long-lasting results.
This means there is generally no need to return to the clinic repeatedly, saving you a significant amount of time.
Since the treatment is typically completed in one session, there are also no ongoing costs as there can be with botulinum toxin injections or continued oral and topical medications.
Reason 2: Targets only sweat glands for a high safety profile
The microwave energy used in miraDry is designed to react specifically to the moisture-rich sweat glands, leaving surrounding tissues and nerves unaffected.
In addition, a specialized cooling system keeps the treatment area comfortable throughout the procedure, which helps reduce the risk of skin irritation such as burns.
The treatment is designed to minimize damage to both the skin surface and underlying tissue, and is considered to have 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 targets both types of glands simultaneously, it can address underarm odor and hyperhidrosis in a single treatment session.
For hyperhidrosis, many patients report experiencing an improvement of approximately 70% or more compared to before treatment.
Reason 4: No incisions means no scarring and minimal downtime
Conventional treatments for underarm odor typically involved surgical incisions to remove the sweat glands.
With miraDry, microwave energy is applied to the treatment area without any incisions, which means minimal impact on the skin and a relatively short recovery period.
You can return to your normal daily routine from the day of treatment, and since there are no incisions, there is no visible scarring to worry about.
Reason 5: Approved by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
miraDry is a scientifically validated treatment approved by both Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)*.
Among underarm sweating treatment devices, 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’s safety as a treatment has been recognized by national health authorities.
*The FDA is a U.S. government agency equivalent to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
How Does miraDry Work? Understanding the Mechanism Behind Its Effects on Underarm Odor and Hyperhidrosis
We hope the benefits of miraDry are now clear.
In this section, we explain how the miraDry treatment works and why it may be effective for underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis.
Let’s walk through the process in three steps.
STEP 1: Microwave energy is directed at two types of sweat glands
First, the miraDry device directs microwave energy at the sweat glands.
There are two types of sweat glands: “eccrine glands” and “apocrine glands,” and the composition of sweat each produces differs.
- Eccrine sweat glands… Produce sweat that is approximately 98% water. This sweat generally does not produce odor.
- Apocrine sweat glands… Produce sweat containing iron, fatty acids, ammonia, and other components. It is slightly viscous and is 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-containing sweat glands, thermal destruction occurs.
miraDry is designed to affect only the eccrine and apocrine sweat glands, without causing damage to surrounding tissues.
STEP 3: Simultaneous cooling during treatment
miraDry is equipped with a specialized cooling system called “HydroceramicCooling,” which cools the treatment area at the same time as the microwave energy is applied.
This helps reduce discomfort and protects surrounding tissues from thermal damage.
Through these three steps, the sweat glands responsible for underarm odor and hyperhidrosis are targeted.
How long do the effects of miraDry last?
miraDry is a treatment for underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis with the potential for long-lasting results.
Because destroyed sweat glands do not regenerate, repeat treatments are generally not required, and many patients see improvement after a single session.
However, results vary by individual, and in rare cases involving severe underarm odor, a second treatment session may be recommended.
How Much Does miraDry Cost? A Comparison with Other Treatment Options
Compared to other treatments, miraDry tends to involve a higher cost.
As a relatively newer treatment approach, miraDry is not covered by health insurance and is an out-of-pocket expense, which can place a greater financial burden on patients.
However, compared to conventional surgical treatments, it offers significant advantages including a shorter procedure time and no residual scarring.
Botulinum toxin injections are a more accessible option, but their effects are limited to approximately 4–6 months. In contrast, the effects of miraDry may be long-lasting, so repeat treatments are generally not necessary.
The following table summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of treatment options for hyperhidrosis and underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis).
| miraDry | Botulinum Toxin Injection | Surgical Treatment | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment method | Microwave energy is applied to destroy the sweat glands in the treatment area. | A botulinum toxin agent is injected into the affected area. | A surgical incision is made to remove the apocrine glands responsible for odor. |
| Target condition | 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 | Approx. 2–4 cm scar remains |
| Downtime | Some, but minimal | None | Yes |
| Advantages | ・No scarring ・Addresses both underarm odor and hyperhidrosis in one session ・Long-lasting effects ・Favorable safety profile ・Minimal downtime | ・Short procedure time ・Minimal downtime | ・Long-lasting effects ・Flap method may be covered by insurance |
| Disadvantages | ・Higher cost | ・Effects do not last long ・Results may not be immediate ・Discomfort from injections | ・Downtime required ・Higher cost |
It is important to consider not just price, but also the nature of the treatment and post-treatment recovery when choosing the approach that is right for you.
If You Are Concerned About Cost, Please Consult IC Clinic
If you are thinking about miraDry but worried about the cost, please feel free to reach out to IC Clinic.
We will suggest a treatment approach that suits your condition and circumstances without placing undue burden on you.
In addition, we may be able to offer reduced pricing through limited-time campaigns or weekday treatment slots.
We encourage you to make the most of these options as you consider moving forward with treatment.
4 Important Things to Know Before miraDry Treatment | Side Effects and Downtime
While miraDry has a favorable safety profile, it is natural to feel some anxiety before undergoing a procedure.
Knowing what to expect regarding discomfort and the impact on your daily life after treatment can help you approach it with confidence.
Below, we share five key things to know before receiving miraDry treatment.
We will also introduce the specific measures IC Clinic takes to support patients throughout the process, so please read on.
(1) Will miraDry be painful?
Because anesthesia is used during the miraDry procedure, discomfort during the application of microwave energy is generally minimal.
However, some patients find the pre-treatment anesthetic injection uncomfortable.
The anesthetic method also plays an important role not only in patient comfort but in achieving optimal treatment outcomes, making it an area that depends considerably on the skill of the treating physician.
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 underarm area.
The fluid volume in particular is considered a critical factor in both safety and maximizing treatment effectiveness, 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 tools during the injection to help minimize any discomfort.
(2) Are there side effects, swelling, or discomfort with miraDry?
The following side effects may occur immediately after the procedure:
- ・Discomfort and swelling
- ・Temporary uneven texture or spots on the skin
- ・Reduction in underarm hair
- ・Temporary bruising from the anesthetic injection
- ・A feeling of tightness in the area
These are temporary effects, and there are no known side effects that persist indefinitely, so you can feel reassured when undergoing treatment.
*In very rare cases, skin redness, discomfort, skin elevation or hardening, or ulceration may persist. According to clinical data from the manufacturer, these effects have been reported to resolve over time. They represent an unavoidable occurrence in a small proportion of patients depending on individual constitution and physical condition.
At IC Clinic, we apply treatment protocols tailored to Japanese patients to help minimize side effects
Because miraDry was originally developed based on the physiology of Western patients, applying the standard protocol directly to Japanese patients carried a risk of side effects such as swelling and numbness.
At our clinic, we were among the early adopters of miraDry and have conducted extensive case studies to develop an approach better suited to Japanese patients. By refining the anesthetic method, output settings, and treatment area, we have been able to substantially reduce the risk of side effects.
Some of our staff have personally experienced miraDry treatment, so they can speak from firsthand experience. We address questions such as “Is it painful?” and “Will it swell?” honestly and directly, and provide attentive care if any symptoms arise.
(3) What is the downtime for miraDry, and will it affect daily life?
Immediately after the miraDry procedure, the anesthesia is still active, so you will not typically feel any discomfort.
However, once the anesthesia wears off, you may notice a tingling sensation or a feeling of tightness in the skin.
On the day of the procedure, please avoid soaking in a bath to help control any swelling or discomfort.
Swelling and discomfort typically peak within the first day after treatment. With appropriate post-treatment care, the impact on daily life is generally minimal, and most patients find that any discomfort subsides within about two weeks.
| Discomfort | We will prescribe pain relief medication (at no charge). Please take it as needed. |
|---|---|
| Post-treatment recovery | Swelling, discomfort, and tightness: 3–4 weeks / Firmness under the skin: 4–6 weeks / Reduction in underarm hair: extended period / Numbness or changes in sensation: 1–12 weeks / Minor blistering or rash: several weeks |
| Minor blistering or rash: several weeks | Yes (at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-treatment). We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. *The same applies to a second treatment session (at our clinic, we recommend two sessions for patients who wish to optimize their results). |
IC Clinic is committed to comprehensive post-treatment support
One of the key advantages of miraDry is that the treatment is completed in a single day and generally requires no follow-up clinic visits—making it far less demanding than many other procedures.
That said, in some cases mild discomfort or swelling may linger, so IC Clinic offers complimentary follow-up consultations to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
For patients who find it difficult to come in person, we also offer remote follow-up support via email and other channels.
(4) Can miraDry be ineffective or can symptoms return?
In some cases, a single miraDry session may not fully eliminate odor, and some residual symptoms may remain afterward.
To reduce the likelihood of suboptimal outcomes, it is important that the treatment is carried out carefully, with appropriate output levels and coverage areas to achieve the best possible results.
In general, once miraDry successfully resolves underarm odor symptoms, a recurrence is unlikely. When the sweat glands responsible for odor are effectively addressed, results may be long-lasting.
IC Clinic uses a wide-coverage, high-output approach
Two key factors in achieving favorable outcomes with miraDry are the coverage area and the output level.
At our clinic, we apply treatment over as wide an area as possible and at a high output level. This approach is designed to pursue the most effective single-session outcomes achievable with the device.
The miraDry Treatment Process at IC Clinic
The treatment itself takes approximately one hour in total. Including anesthesia and changing, the entire appointment is typically around two hours.
Results may vary among individuals, but many patients begin to notice a difference shortly after their treatment session.
Below, we walk through each step of the actual treatment process.
STEP 1 Consultation (30 minutes)
During the consultation, we assess your symptoms and check your underarm odor severity level.
Please feel free to share any concerns you may have—we want you to feel fully comfortable before proceeding with treatment.
STEP 2 Marking the treatment area (20 minutes)
To precisely target the sweat glands, the treatment area is determined and the corresponding area is carefully marked.
STEP 3 Local anesthesia (10 minutes)
Once marking is complete, local anesthesia is administered at multiple points in the treatment area.
The anesthetic typically takes effect within 5–10 minutes of administration.
STEP 4 miraDry application (approx. 1 hour)
Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the treatment begins.
The handpiece is placed over the marked area, drawing the skin upward and delivering microwave energy to the sweat glands.
Because local anesthesia is used, most patients experience little to no discomfort, though some may feel a mild tingling sensation.
If you experience significant discomfort, please let us know right away—do not hesitate to speak up.
STEP 5 Cooling the treatment area (15 minutes)
Finally, the treatment area is cooled to help reduce any swelling or irritation caused by the microwave energy, completing the procedure.
Including the consultation, the entire miraDry appointment typically takes approximately one and a half to two hours.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About miraDry
Below, we address some of the most common questions about miraDry. If you still have concerns, please take a look.
Q: Is miraDry safe for children?
miraDry carries a low risk profile and can generally be performed on elementary and middle school students.
However, there are weight restrictions related to the use of local anesthesia, so please contact our clinic for details. The decision on whether to proceed with miraDry will be made based on a physician’s examination.
Q: Is miraDry effective for nipple-area odor or groin-area odor?
miraDry may also be effective for nipple-area odor and groin-area odor (osmidrosis in other body areas).
However, not all clinics offer treatment in these areas, so we recommend confirming availability in advance.
Q: Will miraDry reduce underarm hair?
Underarm hair may be reduced following miraDry treatment.
Any hair that is reduced will not grow back. That said, the reduction is not total—only a small portion of hair follicles are typically affected.
For men, the reduction is generally barely noticeable. For women, similarly, only a small portion of underarm hair is typically affected.
Q: I had surgery for underarm odor at another clinic. Can I still receive miraDry?
As long as there are no significant issues with the skin, miraDry can generally be performed even after previous surgical treatment at another clinic.
Prior to retreatment, a thorough consultation will be conducted. We typically gather information about the time elapsed since the previous procedure and the specific concerns that remained, in order to make an informed recommendation.
Q: Can underarm odor return after miraDry treatment?
miraDry destroys approximately 70–80% of the sweat glands in the treated area.
As a result, sweat glands that were not fully destroyed during treatment may have temporarily reduced activity, and as they resume activity over time, some patients report noticing a return of sweating or odor.
However, sweat glands that were successfully destroyed do not regenerate.
Q: Can underarm odor recur after a second miraDry treatment session?
There is a possibility that some odor may remain even after a second miraDry session.
However, the majority of patients report noticeable improvement after either the first or second treatment, and cases of recurrence are considered uncommon.
Q: What can I expect in terms of swelling and discomfort after miraDry treatment?
Swelling and discomfort in the treatment area typically peak from the day of treatment through the following day.
In general, most patients find that discomfort subsides within approximately two weeks. If discomfort continues, try applying an ice pack to the area until it eases.
If symptoms do not improve, we recommend consulting with a physician.
Q: Will the effects of miraDry still be present five years later?
Because sweat glands destroyed by miraDry do not regenerate, the effects are expected to be long-lasting.
Therefore, repeat treatments at specific intervals such as every five years are not generally required.
Q: Is it true that miraDry results stabilize around six months after treatment?
The effects of miraDry treatment are generally considered to settle within approximately three to six months following the procedure.
However, individual experiences vary, and this cannot be stated as a universal rule.
Q: Can miraDry treatment cause lasting after-effects?
Because miraDry destroys sweat glands without surgical incisions, lasting after-effects are generally not expected.
However, in some cases, redness, discomfort, skin elevation or hardening, or ulceration may persist after treatment.
According to clinical data from the manufacturer, these effects have been reported to resolve over time, so please do not be overly concerned.
Q: Which is better—miraDry or viewHot?
miraDry has received approval from both Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)*, meaning its safety and efficacy as a treatment have been recognized by regulatory authorities.
viewHot, by contrast, is an unapproved device, meaning its safety and efficacy have not been formally verified. For this reason, our clinic uses miraDry for the treatment of underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis.
*The FDA is a U.S. government agency equivalent to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
For miraDry Treatment in Tokyo (Shinjuku), Please Consult IC Clinic Shinjuku
In this article, we have provided a detailed overview of miraDry’s effects and treatment approach.
miraDry is a treatment option worth considering for underarm odor (axillary osmidrosis) and hyperhidrosis. Its key advantages are that it can be completed in a single day and leaves no scarring.
If you still have any concerns about miraDry treatment, please feel free to reach out to IC Clinic Shinjuku. As a specialist clinic, we are happy to answer any questions, no matter how small.
IC Clinic Is an Officially Certified miraDry Provider
IC Clinic is officially certified as an authorized medical provider of miraDry.
With conventional treatments, sweat glands (the cells that produce sweat) were surgically removed. The miraDry treatment, using the latest medical technology, achieves a remarkable result: the sweat glands are eliminated without any surgical incisions.
Despite its high treatment efficacy and relatively low barriers to access, miraDry has not yet achieved widespread recognition or adoption across Japan.
In response, a group of specialist physicians dedicated to miraDry for hyperhidrosis and underarm odor treatment was established, with the goal of making miraDry a standard treatment approach in Japan.
IC Clinic serves as a central clinic within this specialist physician group. Working in collaboration with university hospitals and general hospitals in central Tokyo, we aim to lead efforts in clinical research, technical innovation, and ongoing improvement so that every patient can feel satisfied with their care.
At our clinic, we propose treatment approaches suited to each individual patient and are committed to delivering results-focused care.
We take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.
