Abstract
Patients with excessive sweating of their armpits frequently ask for a permanent solution. Liposuction resolves excessive sweating of the axillary cavity and has been practiced for many years. To date, however, long-term data are not available. We aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of liposuction performed under local anesthesia in patients with axillary hyperhidrosis. We were able to follow up with 59 patients over a period of 7 years. The results were evaluated on a subjective scale and with the iodine-starch test. There was an immediate reduction of excessive sweating in all patients after surgery. Sixteen patients asked for repeat surgery because axillary sweating recurred once the numbness disappeared. Whenever a satisfactory result was achieved that persisted for at least 3 months, there was no relapse over a period of 7 years. Liposuction is a highly successful method to reduce axillary hyperhidrosis, showing constant and permanent results once the effect is achieved. Repeat surgery may be necessary in a minority of patients.