Hyperhidrosis surgery is a potential solution for severe cases of excessive sweating. It’s a medical procedure that targets the sweat glands to reduce perspiration.
Surgeons may employ different techniques, like endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) or sweat gland removal. Hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore is usually recommended when the condition significantly impairs daily life and conservative treatments prove ineffective.
Excessive sweating can lead to social and emotional distress, affecting relationships and confidence. Surgery is considered when the benefits outweigh potential risks.
How successful is Hyperhidrosis Surgery?
Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can be a difficult condition to put up with. It cannot only be distressing but also disruptive of daily life.
Many common treatments like medications, antiperspirants, and herbal remedies provide only temporary or no relief. That is where surgical intervention becomes a viable option.
Among these surgical approaches, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) stands out as a highly effective solution. But before considering surgery, individuals often try various treatments. These may include;
- Oral medications
- Topical creams
- Antiperspirants, or
- Alternative remedies
Here’s the problem. In many cases, these methods only offer temporary relief. Some even prove ineffective in managing the condition making surgical procedures like ETS the best options to turn to.
Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It is designed specifically for targeting, the sympathetic nerves that regulate sweat glands and blood flow to the skin. ETS is particularly effective in treating hyperhidrosis of the hands.
It is estimated to be able to successfully eliminate excessive sweating in over 98 percent of patients. During the ETS procedure, your surgeon will make very small incisions, typically only 5 millimeters in size, in the chest area.
Through these incisions, they either cut or clamp the sympathetic chain to interrupt the excessive nerve activity that triggers sweating. This minimally invasive approach for hyperhidrosis offers several advantages over open surgery. For example, it comes with quicker recovery times, guarantees less scarring, and offers the possibility of outpatient treatment.
And what’s more, the success rate of ETS in eliminating excessive hand sweating is remarkably high, providing long-term relief for the majority of patients. Moreover, the procedure carries a low risk of complications, enhancing its appeal as an effective treatment option.
In selected cases, ETS can also help address axillary hyperhidrosis. This is a condition characterized by excessive sweating in the armpits.
If needed, your surgeon can perform ETS on both sides of the body during a single operation. As for the recovery, patients undergoing ETS typically receive general anesthesia, ensuring their comfort during the procedure.
Most individuals can leave the hospital within 24 hours. Usually, their recovery is usually complete within just fourteen days. The minimally invasive nature of ETS contributes to this swift recovery, allowing patients to resume their daily activities with improved confidence and comfort.
Is Surgery for Hyperhidrosis Safe?
When considering hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Now, hyperhidrosis surgery is safe. But, it does also come with a few risks you should be aware of before consenting to the procedure. These include;
- The risk of infection: Like any surgery, hyperhidrosis surgery carries a risk of infection. When sweat glands are removed from the underarm area, there’s a potential for bacteria to enter the surgical site. This is what may cause an infection. A strict adherence to pre- and post-operative hygiene protocols can help with this risk. Also, your surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to reduce the likelihood of infection.
- Soreness and bruising: After your hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore, you may experience soreness. You may also notice bruising in the treated area. These are common side effects of the procedure. They should generally subside as you heal. Pain management strategies and proper wound care can help alleviate discomfort during the recovery period.
- Loss of feeling and scarring: Another possible permanent side effect of hyperhidrosis surgery is a loss of feeling in the underarm area. This side effect may come with scarring. This occurs as a result of the surgical incisions and the removal of sweat glands. Now, scarring is a typical outcome of surgery. However, skilled surgeons aim to minimize its visibility through careful incision placement and post-operative care.
- Compensatory Sweating: Compensatory sweating is a notable concern after sympathectomy, a common surgical procedure for hyperhidrosis. It occurs when the body compensates for the reduced sweating in the treated area by increasing sweat production elsewhere. This may lead to sweating in unexpected areas, potentially causing discomfort. The severity of compensatory sweating varies among individuals.
To reduce your risks of complications after your hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore, here are some tips to keep in mind;
- Choose the right surgeon: This is the first and most critical step to reduce the risks associated with hyperhidrosis surgery. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified in their field. This certification demonstrates their expertise and commitment to adhering to high standards of patient care. Board-certified surgeons have undergone rigorous training. So, they are more likely to perform procedures with precision, minimizing the potential for complications. Importantly, research the surgeon’s track record, read patient reviews, and ask for before-and-after photos to assess their skill and results. A surgeon with a history of successful hyperhidrosis surgeries is more likely to provide a positive outcome.
- Thorough Consultation and Evaluation: Being a good candidate for hyperhidrosis surgery involves a comprehensive evaluation by your chosen surgeon. They will assess your medical history, overall health, and the severity of your hyperhidrosis. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for surgery. So, your surgeon will determine if the benefits outweigh the risks in your specific case.
It’s a Wrap!
While there are various treatments for hyperhidrosis, including medications and topical solutions, these options may only provide temporary relief. For those struggling with the significant impact of excessive sweating on their quality of life, hyperhidrosis surgery, particularly ETS, offers a highly successful and minimally invasive solution.
With a success rate exceeding 98 percent and low risk of complications, ETS can be a life-changing procedure, providing lasting relief from the challenges of hyperhidrosis. To learn more about ETS and see your suitability for hyperhidrosis surgery in Singapore, get in touch with us to schedule an assessment. Visit or give us a call at;
The International Centre for Thoracic Surgery
38 Irrawaddy Road #10-38
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
Singapore 329563
+65 6591 8801
