Liposuction and Plastic Surgery Information - Liposuction used to treat excess sweat

Liposuction used to treat excess sweat

Monday, 11 December 2006

The treatment of excess sweating, or hyperhidrosis, by liposuction is being hailed as a success story by sufferers of the ailment. Hyperhidrosis, which afflicts 3% of the US population, is caused by over stimulation of the sweat glands and is often present in a patient's hands, underarms and face.

Although it doesn't lead to medical complications or threaten a patient's health, it is embarrassing for sufferers, and is sometimes associated with anxiety conditions and panic attacks.

However, doctors report that the condition can be treated surgically, particularly when it is localised to the underarm and armpit area. Using tumescent liposuction, surgeons can remove the underarm sweat glands and excess fatty tissue in this area, allowing patients to lead normal lives, with minimal scarring.

Some doctors are also reporting success by administering Botox injections at six-monthly intervals. Although this method of treatment does not provide a permanent cure for the condition, and will only be effective for as long as the treatment regime is maintained, it provides a less invasive method of treatment than surgical removal of sweat glands.

Removal of the sweat glands through liposuction is, however, a minimally invasive procedure, and is normally carried out on an outpatient basis, with the patient requiring just a local anaesthetic. Doctors report few complications and say that the majority of patients report an increase in self esteem and personal comfort following the procedure.

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