In-Depth Research and Selecting the Right Hyperhidrosis Clinic

Before starting your hyperhidrosis treatment journey in Turkey, take time to research and choose a clinic with proven expertise in managing excessive sweating. Turkey has many modern medical centers—especially in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya—offering both non-surgical and surgical options. The right clinic will help you confirm the cause and type of hyperhidrosis, match you with the most effective treatment, and minimize side effects while achieving long-term control.

When comparing clinics, focus on safety, specialist experience, and clear communication. Use the checklist below to guide your decision.

Confirm Specialist Expertise (Not Just a General Clinic)

Hyperhidrosis may be treated by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, thoracic surgeons (for ETS), or multidisciplinary teams. Choose a clinic that routinely treats hyperhidrosis and can offer multiple modalities (e.g., topical/medical therapy, botulinum toxin, iontophoresis, energy-based procedures, or surgery when appropriate).

Accreditation, Licensing, and Hospital Standards

Prioritize clinics and hospitals with recognized quality systems (e.g., JCI, ISO, or national health authority licensing). Ask where procedures are performed (outpatient clinic vs. hospital setting) and what emergency support is available if needed.

A Proper Diagnosis Pathway

A reputable clinic will evaluate whether your sweating is primary focal hyperhidrosis (hands, feet, underarms, face) or secondary hyperhidrosis (triggered by medications, thyroid disease, infections, menopause, etc.). Expect a medical history review and, when indicated, targeted tests before committing to treatment.

Treatment Transparency: What’s Included and What’s Realistic

Ask for a written plan that explains the recommended option, expected duration of benefit, common side effects, and how many sessions may be needed. For example, botulinum toxin typically requires repeat sessions over time, while surgical options may carry specific risks that must be discussed clearly.

Clinician Track Record and Patient Evidence

Request clinician experience metrics relevant to your treatment (e.g., number of axillary botulinum toxin cases performed, ETS volume if applicable). Review authentic patient testimonials and, where appropriate, clinical photos or documented outcomes. Be cautious of clinics that promise “permanent cure” without discussing limitations and risks.

Clear Pricing and Aftercare Plan

Choose clinics that provide transparent pricing (consultation, procedure, anesthesia if needed, medications, follow-ups, and potential touch-ups). For international patients, confirm what’s included in packages (transfers, accommodation, interpreter) and how follow-up is handled once you return home.

Communication and Informed Consent

You should receive information in a language you understand, with time to ask questions. A trustworthy clinic will provide informed consent that covers benefits, alternatives, and risks—especially important for procedures like ETS due to potential compensatory sweating.

Initial Online Consultation and Diagnosis of Excessive Sweating

After choosing a clinic in Turkey, the next step is an online consultation to confirm whether you have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and to identify the most effective treatment option. Many clinics offer this first assessment remotely, allowing you to share your symptoms, medical history, and photos (if needed) before you travel.

1) Symptom Review and Impact on Daily Life

Your specialist will ask when the sweating started, which areas are affected (e.g., underarms, palms, soles, face/scalp), how often it occurs, and what triggers it (heat, stress, exercise, foods). You may also discuss how it affects work, social life, clothing choices, and confidence. This helps determine severity and whether your pattern fits primary focal hyperhidrosis.

2) Medical History to Rule Out Secondary Causes

Because excessive sweating can sometimes be caused by an underlying condition, your clinician will review your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any recent changes in health. You may be asked about symptoms such as fever, weight changes, palpitations, flushing, or night sweats. If there are red flags, the clinic may recommend targeted tests (often arranged locally or upon arrival) before starting treatment.

3) What to Share Before the Call

• A brief list of affected areas and how long symptoms have been present
• Photos of the area if relevant (e.g., underarm sweating marks) and notes on any skin irritation
• Past treatments tried (strong antiperspirants, oral medications, iontophoresis, Botox) and your response
• Your current medication list and any known medical conditions

4) Provisional Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Based on your history, the clinician will provide a provisional diagnosis (primary vs. secondary hyperhidrosis) and outline suitable options. Depending on the area and severity, this may include medical-grade antiperspirants, iontophoresis (hands/feet), Botox injections (commonly underarms/palms), oral anticholinergics in selected cases, or surgical options such as sympathectomy for carefully chosen patients. You’ll also discuss expected results, duration of effect, potential side effects (e.g., dry mouth with tablets, temporary hand weakness with palmar Botox, compensatory sweating with surgery), and a realistic timeline.

5) Next Steps Before Traveling to Turkey

If you are a candidate, the clinic will advise what to do before arrival (e.g., avoid certain antiperspirants or medications for a short period if instructed), confirm whether any in-person tests are needed, and provide a clear plan for your on-site appointment, treatment day, and follow-up.

Personalized Treatment Plan and Booking Your Procedure

After your consultation, your Turkish clinic will create a personalized hyperhidrosis treatment plan based on the areas affected (underarms, palms, soles, face), severity, triggers, and your medical history. The goal is to choose the least invasive option that still provides reliable, long-lasting sweat control.

Your plan may include one or more of the following:

• Topical treatments (e.g., prescription antiperspirants) for mild cases or as maintenance
• Iontophoresis (often for palms/soles), typically requiring a series of sessions
• Botulinum toxin injections for underarms and sometimes palms/soles, with results usually lasting several months
• Energy-based treatments (e.g., microwave/laser-based sweat gland reduction) mainly for underarms, when appropriate
• Surgical options (selected cases only), discussed with clear counseling about risks such as compensatory sweating

Once the treatment approach is confirmed, you can move forward with booking your procedure. Many clinics in Turkey offer international-patient coordination to make scheduling straightforward. Depending on the treatment, you may be able to complete everything in a short visit (e.g., injections), while other options may require multiple sessions or a planned follow-up.

Before you finalize your booking, confirm these details in writing:

• The exact treatment type and targeted areas (e.g., both underarms vs. one area only)
• What is included in the quoted price (consultation, tests, anesthesia/numbling, medications, aftercare)
• Expected number of sessions and the recommended time in Turkey
• Pre-treatment instructions (e.g., shaving rules for underarms, stopping certain medications if advised)
• Post-treatment plan, including follow-up and how to contact the clinic if you have questions after returning home

A clear plan and confirmed schedule help you travel with confidence and focus on achieving the best possible sweat reduction with minimal downtime.

Traveling to Turkey and Pre-Treatment Preparations

Before traveling to Turkey for hyperhidrosis treatment, your clinic team will typically review your symptoms, affected areas (underarms, palms, soles, face/scalp), and any previous treatments. Once your plan is confirmed, you’ll receive clear guidance on travel timing, what to bring, and how to prepare so your assessment and treatment can begin smoothly soon after arrival.

Many clinics can arrange airport pickup and comfortable transport to your hotel or clinic accommodation. Plan to arrive at least one day before your first appointment if possible, especially if you are having a procedure (such as miraDry, iontophoresis training, or surgery) rather than an in-office injection.

Documents and Information to Bring

• Medical history (including thyroid disease, diabetes, infections, menopause/perimenopause symptoms, anxiety/panic symptoms, and any neurologic conditions).
• Medication list (especially antidepressants, antipsychotics, opioids, diabetes medications, and any drugs that may affect sweating).
• Prior treatments tried (clinical-strength antiperspirants, oral anticholinergics, Botox, iontophoresis, laser/microwave treatments) and your response/side effects.
• Photos or notes showing severity and triggers (heat, stress, exercise), plus how sweating impacts daily life.

Pre-Treatment Consultation and Testing

Your first visit usually includes a focused examination to confirm whether you have primary focal hyperhidrosis or sweating related to another condition (secondary hyperhidrosis). Depending on your history, the clinician may recommend basic screening (for example, blood tests to rule out thyroid or metabolic causes) before proceeding with treatment.

Skin Preparation (Important for Underarm Treatments)

• Avoid shaving or waxing the underarms for 24–48 hours before appointments unless your clinic advises otherwise.
• Do not apply strong antiperspirants, deodorants, or irritating skincare products on the treatment area on the day of your visit.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce friction and make examination/treatment easier.

Medication and Lifestyle Considerations

• Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medicines, as these may increase bruising risk for injections.
• If you are considering oral anticholinergics, discuss glaucoma, urinary retention, constipation, and heart rhythm history, as these can affect suitability.
• Avoid alcohol and heavy exercise the day before treatment when possible, as both can temporarily increase sweating.

Planning Your Stay

Treatment timelines vary: Botox is usually completed in a single visit, while device-based treatments (like microwave therapy) may require follow-up, and surgical options require additional recovery time. Confirm your expected schedule in advance so you can book flights and accommodation with enough flexibility for assessment, treatment, and any short-term follow-up.

Treatment Day: What to Expect (Botox, MiraDry, Iontophoresis, or Surgery)

Hyperhidrosis treatment in Turkey is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. What happens on the day depends on the method chosen, but most clinics follow the same structure: check-in, confirmation of the plan, treatment, and short observation before you go home.

Before you start (all treatments)

You’ll typically complete a brief medical review, confirm the sweating areas to be treated, and take “before” photos if needed. The clinician may mark the area (especially for underarms) and discuss expected results, side effects, and aftercare.

Botox injections (axillary/palmar/plantar)

• Duration: usually 20–45 minutes (hands/feet can take longer).
• Comfort: topical numbing cream and/or ice is common; for palms/soles, stronger anesthesia options may be offered.
• What happens: the area is cleaned, mapped, and multiple small injections are placed in a grid pattern.
• After: you can usually return to normal activities the same day; results typically begin within several days and peak over 1–2 weeks.

MiraDry (underarm sweat and odor)

• Duration: typically 60–90 minutes.
• Comfort: local anesthetic is injected into the underarm skin to keep the procedure tolerable.
• What happens: the device delivers controlled microwave energy to target sweat glands; the provider may treat each underarm in sections.
• After: swelling, tenderness, and temporary lumps are common; many clinics recommend ice packs and avoiding intense exercise for a short period.

Iontophoresis (hands/feet)

• Duration: usually 20–40 minutes per session.
• Comfort: a mild tingling sensation is expected; settings are adjusted to your tolerance.
• What happens: hands or feet are placed in shallow water trays while a low electrical current is applied.
• After: there is no downtime; the best results typically require a series of sessions, followed by maintenance treatments.

Surgery (selected cases only)

• Common options: local sweat-gland procedures for underarms, or (more rarely) endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) for severe palmar sweating.
• Duration: varies by technique; most are day-case procedures, though ETS may require longer monitoring.
• Anesthesia: local anesthesia for minor underarm procedures; general anesthesia for ETS.
• After: you’ll receive wound-care instructions and a follow-up plan. Your surgeon will also discuss risks such as scarring, infection, and (for ETS) compensatory sweating.

Tip: Wear loose, breathable clothing on treatment day and avoid applying deodorant, lotions, or creams to the treatment area unless your clinic instructs otherwise.

Immediate Aftercare and Managing Side Effects

After hyperhidrosis treatment in Turkey, your clinic will provide tailored aftercare instructions based on the method used (Botox injections, iontophoresis, oral medications, microwave/energy-based devices, or surgery). Mild, short-lived side effects are common and usually settle within days. Following the guidance below can help you recover comfortably and reduce the chance of complications.

General aftercare (most treatments)

• Keep the treated area clean and dry for the first 24 hours unless your clinician advises otherwise.
• Avoid saunas, hot baths, and intense exercise for 24–48 hours to limit irritation and swelling.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing and use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers to reduce skin sensitivity.
• Use paracetamol/acetaminophen for discomfort if needed; avoid aspirin/NSAIDs for 24 hours after injections unless your doctor says they’re safe for you.
• Attend your scheduled follow-up (in person or online) so your clinician can assess results and adjust the plan.

What to expect by treatment type

• Botox for sweating: Small bumps, redness, bruising, or tenderness at injection sites can occur. Avoid rubbing/massaging the area for 24 hours. Underarm results often begin within 3–7 days and peak by ~2 weeks.
• Iontophoresis (hands/feet): Temporary dryness, tingling, or mild irritation is common. Apply a bland moisturiser after sessions and reduce frequency if skin becomes sore.
• Oral medications: Possible dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, or urinary difficulty. Take exactly as prescribed and report troublesome side effects promptly—dose adjustments are often possible.
• Energy-based/microwave treatments: Swelling, soreness, temporary numbness, or lumps under the skin may occur. Cold packs (wrapped) for short intervals can help in the first 24–48 hours.
• Surgery (e.g., sympathectomy or gland procedures): Follow wound-care instructions closely, keep incisions clean, and avoid heavy lifting until cleared. Your team will advise on showering, dressing changes, and activity restrictions.

Managing common side effects

• Swelling or tenderness: Use cool compresses for 10–15 minutes at a time during the first day; avoid heat exposure.
• Skin irritation: Pause harsh deodorants, exfoliants, or alcohol-based products for a few days; switch to gentle, unscented options.
• Dryness (hands/feet): Moisturise regularly; consider a barrier cream if cracking occurs.
• Temporary weakness (hands after Botox): Reduce gripping/strenuous hand activity for a few days and inform your clinician if it affects daily tasks.

When to contact your clinic urgently

• Fever, increasing redness, warmth, pus, or worsening pain (possible infection)
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe dizziness
• Rash, facial swelling, or trouble breathing (possible allergic reaction)
• New or significant muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes after injections
• Persistent numbness, severe swelling, or symptoms that do not improve as advised

If you are travelling home soon after treatment, ask your provider for a written aftercare plan, medication list, and a direct contact number for remote support. This makes it easier to manage side effects and coordinate care with your local doctor if needed.

Follow-Up Appointments and Long-Term Treatment Strategy

Hyperhidrosis treatment works best when it’s monitored and adjusted over time. Your follow-up plan in Turkey will depend on the underlying cause of sweating, the treatment you chose (topical, oral, injections, device-based, or surgery), and how your symptoms respond.

What your follow-up appointments typically include

• Symptom review: which areas are affected, how often sweating occurs, and how it impacts daily life
• Response assessment: how well your current treatment is working and how long the benefit lasts
• Side-effect check: skin irritation (topicals), dry mouth/blurred vision (oral anticholinergics), weakness or compensatory sweating (post-procedure)
• Trigger and lifestyle review: heat, stress, caffeine, spicy foods, and clothing choices
• Plan refinement: dose adjustments, switching therapies, or combining treatments for better control

Suggested follow-up timeline (general guidance)

• Topical antiperspirants: review in 2–4 weeks to confirm tolerability and effectiveness
• Oral medications: review in 1–4 weeks after starting or changing dose, then periodically
• Botulinum toxin injections: check-in around 2–4 weeks to assess peak effect; repeat sessions are usually planned when sweating returns (often months later)
• Iontophoresis: early review after the initial course (often within 2–6 weeks), then maintenance scheduling
• Energy-based procedures or surgery: follow your clinic’s postoperative schedule to monitor healing and outcomes

Building a long-term strategy

• Stepwise approach: start with the least invasive option and escalate only if needed
• Combination therapy: for example, topical treatment plus iontophoresis, or injections for a focal area with topical support
• Maintenance planning: many treatments require repeat or ongoing sessions; your clinic can map out expected intervals and costs
• Address underlying causes: if sweating is secondary (e.g., thyroid issues, medication effects), managing the cause is key to long-term control

When to contact your clinic sooner

• New or rapidly worsening sweating, night sweats, fever, or unexplained weight loss
• Severe skin irritation, rash, blistering, or signs of infection after a procedure
• Troublesome medication side effects (e.g., palpitations, urinary retention, significant vision changes)
• Unexpected weakness, breathing difficulty, or swallowing problems after injections (seek urgent medical advice)

If you’re traveling home after treatment in Turkey, ask your provider about remote follow-ups, documentation for your local doctor, and a clear plan for maintenance sessions or repeat treatments.

Returning Home and Maintaining Sweat Control Results

Most patients can travel home shortly after hyperhidrosis treatment in Turkey, depending on the method used (e.g., Botox injections, miraDry, iontophoresis guidance, or surgical options such as ETS). Before you leave, your clinic should provide a clear aftercare plan and explain what results to expect, when improvements typically peak, and when to schedule follow-ups.

First Week After Treatment:

• Follow your aftercare instructions: Keep treated areas clean and dry as advised, avoid harsh deodorants or shaving if instructed, and use prescribed creams or pain relief if needed.
• Activity limits: Many patients can resume normal routines quickly, but intense exercise, saunas, and hot baths may be restricted for a short period (especially after energy-based treatments or surgery).
• Know what’s normal: Temporary swelling, tenderness, bruising, or altered sensation can occur depending on the treatment area and technique.

When Results Stabilize (2–6 Weeks):

• Botox: Sweat reduction often begins within days and typically reaches full effect within about 1–2 weeks, with results commonly lasting several months.
• miraDry / energy-based treatments: Improvement may be noticeable early, but swelling can temporarily mask final results; outcomes often settle over several weeks.
• Topicals / oral medications: Your clinician may adjust dosing based on effectiveness and side effects; do not change doses without guidance.

Long-Term Maintenance (Ongoing):

• Plan for touch-ups if needed: Some treatments are repeatable (e.g., Botox) and may require maintenance sessions to sustain results.
• Track triggers and patterns: Stress, heat, caffeine, alcohol, and certain foods can worsen sweating. Keeping a simple log can help you identify and manage triggers.
• Skin care matters: Excess moisture can irritate skin and increase the risk of rashes or infections. Use gentle cleansers, keep folds dry, and treat irritation early.
• Follow-up support: Many clinics offer remote check-ins to review progress, answer questions, and advise on next steps.

When to Contact Your Clinic Urgently:

• Fever, spreading redness, increasing pain, pus, or signs of infection
• Severe swelling, persistent numbness/weakness, or worsening symptoms
• After ETS: troublesome compensatory sweating, breathing issues, chest pain, or any sudden concerning symptoms

With the right aftercare and realistic expectations, many patients maintain meaningful sweat reduction long after returning home. If your results are not as strong as expected, your provider can often recommend adjustments or combination approaches to improve control.

Essential Tips for a Successful Hyperhidrosis Treatment Experience in Turkey

• Choose the right specialist and clinic: Depending on your case, look for a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or thoracic surgeon (for ETS). Confirm relevant experience specifically in hyperhidrosis treatments (Botox, miraDry, iontophoresis, or ETS) and ask to see patient outcomes.
• Confirm your diagnosis and sweating pattern before you travel: Ask for a pre-visit assessment (photos, history, triggers, affected areas). Clarify whether your sweating is likely primary (localized) or secondary (due to another condition), as this changes the workup and treatment plan.
• Share your full medical history and medications early: Tell the clinic about thyroid disease, diabetes, infections, neurologic conditions, pregnancy status, and any blood thinners or supplements. This helps avoid delays and ensures safe anesthesia/sedation planning if needed.
• Request a clear, written treatment plan and pricing breakdown: Ask what is included (consultation, mapping tests like Minor’s iodine-starch test, anesthesia/numbling, follow-ups, medications, and revisions). For Botox, confirm the number of units planned and the brand used.
• Understand timelines and how long results typically last: Plan around expected onset and duration (e.g., Botox often starts working within days and may last several months; device-based treatments may require more than one session). Build in time for follow-up before flying home.
• Plan travel with recovery and comfort in mind: Bring breathable clothing, extra undershirts/socks, and antiperspirant wipes for transit. If treating underarms or palms, schedule light activities for 24–72 hours after procedures to reduce irritation and swelling.
• Follow pre-treatment instructions precisely: You may be asked to avoid shaving the underarms, stop certain topical products, or pause specific medications. For procedures involving anesthesia, follow fasting rules and arrange a companion on the day of treatment if advised.
• Prioritize aftercare and know what is normal vs. urgent: Mild swelling, bruising, tenderness, or temporary weakness (especially after palm Botox) can occur. Seek prompt medical advice for fever, spreading redness, severe pain, shortness of breath, chest pain, or signs of infection.
• Discuss side effects and alternatives openly—especially for ETS: If considering endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, ask specifically about compensatory sweating, gustatory sweating, recurrence rates, and whether less invasive options have been fully tried first.
• Set realistic expectations and track outcomes: Improvement may be significant but not always complete. Use a simple symptom diary (sweat severity, triggers, clothing changes per day) and standardized scales if offered to evaluate progress and guide next steps.
• Arrange long-term follow-up once you return home: Ask for a written summary for your local doctor, including the exact treatment performed, product/lot details (for injectables), and recommended timing for maintenance sessions or repeat treatments.