For some these treatment options have been tried and the problem still persists, then many patients turn to surgical options, such as Axillary Suction Curettage or Sympathectomy.

Axillary Suction Curettage

Axillary suction curettage's since the procedure is only performed in a doctors office the cost is considerably lower. This procedure removes the sweat glands and is considered to be less invasive than sympathectomy. It is commonly compared to liposuction procedures. The physician will insert a cannula into the skin and suction is applied to remove sweat glands.

Since it is only used on the axillary or armpits, its considered a treatment just for armpit sweating. For most people, it does result in a reduction in sweat, and the treatment is hopefully a permanent solution. 

Treating Excessive Sweating: How Axillary Suction Curettage Works

Patients who experience excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis in the axillary region are often are often looking for a more permanent solution. For these patients axillary suction curettage may be an option. This minimally invasive outpatient surgery is commonly performed  for those that do not respond to any other therapy. The surgery is performed by curetting and vacuuming the sweat glands to reduce or stop excess underarm sweating. The procedure is designed to damage and remove as many sweat glands in the armpits as possible. This should result in the permanent reduction of excessive sweating.

How Axillary Suction Curettage Is Performed

Axillary suction curettage is often performed by a experienced medical doctor only. A tumescent anesthetic is injected into the skin, usually consisting of lignocaine, adrenaline and sodium chloride. A biopsy will then be taken of the hyperhidrotic area. Two incisions will be made into each axillae, and a canula will be inserted to curett and vacuum the sweat glands. The canula is small, and a circular-shaped loop on the end is used to scrape away the sweat glands from the underside of the skin. The incision sites are then sutured. After the surgery, bandages will be applied and patients will receive antibiotics and instructions for care.

What to Expect

There may be some mild discomfort, swelling or limited mobility at the incision sites for up to two weeks. Bandages should be changed often, and antibiotics are usually scheduled for 5 days after the surgery. After 7 days, the wound is assessed and sutures are removed. Your doctor may discuss side effects such as bleeding or pain. Minor loss of feeling may occur, and the results are not 100% guaranteed. This is because the sweat glands are too small for the surgeon to see. Patients should limit their activity, especially sports and exercise, for at least one week.

After one month, patients are evaluated for reduction in excess sweating, and measurements of sweat are performed so the success of the procedure can be recorded. The assessment may be performed again in 6, 12 and 24 months after the surgery. Some sweat glands that remain may still produce excess sweating, but the sweat glands that are removed or damaged will remain so permanently.