Excessive sweating in the underarms, also known as hyperhydrosis, can have a huge impact on the quality of life of those men and women affected. In addition to hygiene aspects, the increased feeling of embarrassment also plays an important role. If hyperhydrosis causes smells or sweat patches can be seen on clothing, this also causes additional stress and a feeling of discomfort.
Many antiperspirants offered on the market only provide a limited solution to this problem. A permanent solution can only be achieved through surgery. The combination of liposuction and suction curettage (= removal of the sweat glands) can offer a reliable, effective and permanent treatment for this problem.
The sweat glands are located under the skin in the armpits between the fatty cells. First, the underarm area is filled with a special anaesthetic solution. Afterwards, a single small incision in the front of the armpit is made and a fine cannula is inserted in the subcutaneous fatty tissue.
This cannula can both suction and use its sharp edges to remove the sweat glands under the skin. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, 95 to 98% of the sweat glands can be permanently removed. An interesting side effect for women is that the majority of the hair roots in the underarm area are also removed.
The outpatient surgery takes around 45 minutes and is usually performed under twilight anaesthesia. After the treatment, the patient remains in the clinic for a while for observation but can go home on the same day. A special compression garment should be worn for a total of 2 weeks. Patients can shower again the next day.
There is a slight risk of side effects for all treatments in plastic and aesthetic surgery. However, this method is extremely low-risk and gentle when performed by an experienced specialist. Slight bruising in the treated areas occurs frequently but is no cause for concern and should heal after a few days. Circulatory disorders of the skin can be more serious.
The barely visible scars made by the incisions are also well concealed as they are located under the arms.
Although hyperhydrosis is generally considered a medical condition, most health insurance companies do not cover the costs. However, those who suffer from extreme sweating can often not take part in daily social life in the usual way, which is why some also suffer emotional distress. In this case, some or all of the costs for the procedure can be covered based on a psychological diagnosis.
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