Meanwhile, those who do seek medical assistance generally endure uncomfortable treatments to hide their embarrassing situation. Now patients can stop sweating over their condition, according to a recent study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery(R), the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). A new surgical technique which shaves away underarm glands may offer patients permanent relief.
"The shaver technique is really the first long lasting solution for excessive underarm sweating that offers patients minimal scarring, unlike other procedures," said Kenneth Murray, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon and study author. "More than two years after surgery, the majority of patients experienced a complete elimination of their sweating problem and have gone on to lead more normal lives without having to hide this troubling condition."
Most patients with hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) have too many, overly large sweat glands. The new surgical technique, which is only appropriate in treating excessive sweating of the underarms, is performed through a small incision using a rotating blade to cut away the excess glands while a suction device removes them. The surgery may offer a permanent solution by treating the root cause of the condition.
The study examined 50 patients who rated the severity of their sweating 9.8 on a scale of 1 to 10. After surgery, that number significantly decreased to 2.3. Ninety-four percent of patients reported elimination of symptoms, while six percent reported a mild recurrence of symptoms, which did not require additional treatment. Overall, 96 percent were satisfied with the results more than two years after surgery.
Excessive underarm sweating is a relatively common condition -- 1.4 percent of the United States population (4.2 million people) suffers from the affliction. Rather than seeking help, people often alter clothing styles or wear multiple layers; spend more money on dry cleaning; avoid social situations; and in the most extreme cases may shower up to four times a day, said Dr. Murray.
Before the surgical technique, all of the patients had tried non-surgical injections, over-the-counter antiperspirants, oral prescriptions, topical agents, or other treatments to solve their excessive sweating problem.
"My patients are tired of other treatment options because of the local skin irritation they can cause, side effects and ongoing maintenance for temporary relief," said Dr. Murray. "This technique offers patients a long lasting solution without the ongoing hassle and continued cost of other treatments."
