Will Insurance Cover Botox for Hyperhidrosis?

Question

I have been trying to get my insurance company to pay for treatment to help stop sweating. My dermatologist's office walked me through the processes and provided me with the correct paperwork, but I can't get a guarantee that it will be covered.If I want this treatment, hyperhidrosis, using Botox, can I pay for it and how much would it be? The clinic I go to said it would be very expensive and I didn't bother to ask how much... I wish I would have...

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Insurance typically will not pay for underarm sweating treatments with botox. Most experienced injectors offer a "volume" discount for hyperhidrosis so that the injection fees are not outrageous. Typical costs for underarms can be as little as $500 for a session.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Each insurance is different.  You can have your doctor submit for approval... but miradry is better and permanent.Our office specializes in Miraday. Miradry just got FDA clearance for elimination of all hair colors under the arm. It also has clearance for the elimination of underarm sweating and odor.  Much cheaper than botox and permanent.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

It really depends on your insurance company whether Botox can be covered to treat hyperhidrosis. The number of units depends on the extent of treatment desired, therefore it would be difficult to say how much it would be for you.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hyperhidrosis treatments can sometimes be covered by insurance, but insurance carriers vary by state and by policy. The Miradry procedure is an amazing addition to treatments as it can provide longlasting control of underam sweating. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

Botox is indeed very expensive and needs to be repeated.

	For underarm hyperhidrosis, laser treatment is very effective. We currently use the SmartLipo Triplex to ablate the axillary sweat glands.  This is a one time treatment.  We have not tried to get insurance coverage, but the cost out of pocket is currently around 3,000.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Just because your insurance company will cover the procedure, doesn't mean that the cost will be completely reimbursed. There are several hoops that the insurance company will require you to jump through prior to obtaining reimbursement. In my experience, it has been increasingly more difficult to obtain coverage

Steven L. Greene, MD · Answer

Check with your insurance carrier where you will find out what their contractural obligations are to you.  The medical record at your consultation for your hyperhidrosis with your dermatologist must reflect how severe your symptoms have been affecting your life both socially and professionally. Every visit with your dermatologist must continue to repeat your problems with your hyperhidrosis condition so that when the clinic makes a case on your behalf seeking a Prior Authorization to get your coverage from the Medical Insurance Company.
I hope this is helpful to you.
Steve Greene MD

Ken Landow, MD · Answer

botox is FDA approved for treatment of excessive underarm sweating...as a result many insurances at least take a look at coverage...on the other hand most will not cover treatment for excessive perspiration of the palms, soles, etc...the good news is underarm sweating remains the most frequent problem people seek treatment for...therapy typically works for 6-12 months...much longer than when used for cosmetic purposes...in most areas of the country the cost ranges between about $700-1500 depending on the locale and the amount of product required...if it lasts a year...that's about $20 a week...not too bad...and remember botox takes away so much worry and is such a nifty solution to a terribly embarrassing and disturbing problem....

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Botox is a great treatment option for hyperhidrosis, and in Canada the vast majority of private insurance plans cover the treatment. Best to speak with your dermatologist as you have to clarify coverage, as every plan is different. In Canada, the cost for treating one area such as the armpits is typically $1100-$1500, and it lasts 6-12 months in most people. Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox is FDA approved for hyperhidrosis treatment and therefore it is difficult for insurance companies to not cover this treatment - but, they do try to manage to do that - they simply look for reasons to deny coverage - and therefore, it is incumbent on the patient and treating physician to try every conservative option before submitting paperwork to obtain authorizationf to inject Botox for hyperhidrosis. This includes a trial of alternative products (natural supplements like sage, etc), topical products (prescription and non prescription over-the-counter products), oral anticholinergics, iontophoresis (for palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis) and so on.

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