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Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Published in: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 3/2009

01-05-2009 | Original Article

Treatment of Axillary Hyperhidrosis/Bromidrosis Using VASER Ultrasound

Authors: George W. Commons, Angeline F. Lim

Published in: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery | Issue 3/2009

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Abstract

Background

Current methods of treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis and/or bromidrosis are palliative (use of topical aluminum chloride or injections of botulinum toxin type A) or surgically based for more permanence (excisional surgery, endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy, liposuction/curettage). The surgical approaches have mixed effectiveness and incur the risk of significant side effects and complications.

Methods

Thirteen patients (3 males, 10 females) with significant axillary hyperhidrosis and/or bromidrosis were recruited, treated with the VASER ultrasound, and followed for 6 months. Preoperative assessment of the impact of hyperhidrosis and/or bromidrosis on lifestyle and the degree of sweat/odor were completed. Postoperative assessment of changes relative to lifestyle and degree of sweat/odor reduction and patient and surgeon satisfaction were completed.

Results

Eleven of 13 patients had significant reduction in sweat/odor and had no recurrence of significant symptoms at 6 months. Two patients had a reduction in sweat/odor but not to the degree desired by the patients. No significant complications were noted. A simple amplitude and time protocol was established that provides consistent and predictable therapy. The complete procedure takes less than 1 h to treat two axillae using local anesthetic.

Conclusion

The VASER is safe and effective for treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis/bromidrosis. The method is minimally invasive with immediate return to basic activities and only temporary minor restriction of arm movement. At 6 months the treatment appears to be long-lasting, but further follow-up is required for verification of permanence. This method has become the standard of care for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis/bromidrosis in the authors’ practice.
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Metadata
Title
Treatment of Axillary Hyperhidrosis/Bromidrosis Using VASER Ultrasound
Authors
George W. Commons
Angeline F. Lim
Publication date
01-05-2009
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery / Issue 3/2009
Print ISSN: 0364-216X
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5241
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-008-9283-y

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