Axillary Hyperhidrosis Treatment by Simple Skin Excision and Undermining

Abstract

The current literature of axillary hyperhidrosis is reviewed. Excision of the gland-containing skin of the axilla has been a mainstay in the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis for many years. A retrospective study was performed using data accumulated from 56 consecutive patients who underwent a surgical procedure modified from that originally described by Hurley and Shelley. Excision of the hair-bearing portion of the axilla with undermining of the adjacent skin and simple closure was performed under local or general anesthesia. Ninety-two per cent of patients were satisfied with the results. Five patients wished to undergo a second procedure, either because they still had excessive perspiration or because they were unhappy with their scars. Complication rates were low and were compared with other series. Thus, the described procedure provides a simple, safe and effective modality for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis.