What is Hyperhidrosis Surgery?
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive, persistent, and uncontrolled sweating. This excessive sweating can occur in various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, underarms, face, and scalp. Hyperhidrosis can significantly impact the daily lives of individuals affected, causing emotional distress and physical discomfort. In severe cases where conservative treatments like antiperspirants and oral medications have failed, hyperhidrosis surgery becomes a viable treatment option.
There are several types of surgical procedures used to treat hyperhidrosis, and the choice depends on the affected body part and the severity of the condition. These include endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), local excision, sweat gland suction, and microwave thermolysis.
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy
ETS is the most common surgical procedure for hyperhidrosis. It involves interrupting the sympathetic nerves responsible for excessive sweat production. While this method can be highly effective, it can also lead to compensatory sweating (increased sweating in other parts of the body).
Local Excision and Sweat Gland Suction
Local excision and sweat gland suction are surgical methods used to treat severe underarm sweating. Local excision involves surgically removing sweat glands, while sweat gland suction is similar to liposuction, where sweat glands are removed through a small incision.
Microwave Thermolysis
Microwave thermolysis is a relatively new hyperhidrosis treatment, using microwave energy to destroy sweat glands. This non-invasive procedure is most often used for underarm sweating.
Like any surgery, these procedures come with potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, and the aforementioned compensatory sweating after ETS. Therefore, they are typically recommended only when non-surgical methods have not provided satisfactory results.
A specific type of hyperhidrosis called palmar hyperhidrosis causes excessive sweating of the hands, or sweaty palms. This kind of excessive sweating can be distressingly persistent, severely impacting a person’s quality of life in many ways, such as making it difficult to handle paper or electronic devices, or causing discomfort or embarrassment in social situations where handshakes are required.
Conservative treatment options like antiperspirants and iontophoresis (using water to conduct a mild electrical current through the skin’s surface) can help manage symptoms. However, if these prove ineffective, then surgical interventions like ETS, local excision or sweat gland suction may be considered.
It is vital to note that even though hyperhidrosis surgery can significantly reduce the occurrence of sweaty palms, it is essential for the individual to thoroughly understand the potential risks and benefits. Open and comprehensive discussions with the healthcare provider can help in making an informed decision.
Conclusion
Hyperhidrosis surgery can provide relief from excessive and uncontrolled sweating when other treatment options have failed. However, these procedures should be the last option due to potential risks and complications. Increased public understanding about hyperhidrosis can help individuals affected by this condition to seek prompt medical consultation and regain their life’s quality.+