A lasting approach
If you live with excessive underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis), the impact can extend far beyond physical discomfort. Constantly worrying about visible sweat marks, changing clothes throughout the day, avoiding certain colours and fabrics, or feeling self-conscious in social and professional situations can significantly affect confidence and quality of life.
While strong antiperspirants and injectable treatments can provide temporary relief, some patients are looking for a longer-term solution. One treatment option that has gained popularity is suction curettage apocrinectomy, a minimally invasive procedure which reduces the number of sweat glands beneath the skin.
Performed under local tumescent anaesthetic, the procedure involves making small openings in the underarm area. A specialised cannula is then used beneath the skin to gently disrupt and remove many of the sweat glands responsible for excessive perspiration. Because the procedure directly targets the glands themselves, the aim is to achieve a significant and long-lasting reduction in underarm sweating.
Unlike more invasive surgical procedures, suction curettage can be performed as a day stay procedure under local anaesthetic, allowing patients to return home the same day. Most people experience some bruising, swelling, and tenderness following treatment, but recovery is generally straightforward, with a gradual return to normal activities over the following days.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks including infection, temporary or permanent changes in sensation, scarring, skin irregularity, and incomplete reduction of sweating. A thorough consultation is important to determine whether the procedure is suitable and to discuss realistic expectations.
For those whose underarm sweating is affecting everyday life, suction curettage offers a practical and effective treatment option. By reducing the sweat glands responsible for the condition, patients experience greater confidence, increased comfort, and freedom from the daily challenges associated with excessive underarm sweating.