Earlier this summer, I received an email from a Public Relations agent who was helping Fox News in New York City put together a piece on a surgical procedure that alleviates Axillary Hyperhidrosis.  The PR firm was looking for a person with Hyperhidrosis who would be willing to undergo this procedure on camera.  I was not able to help them find someone, but it’s great that they did.

The doctor in the story, Dr. Jacobs, calls this procedure “Sweat Lipo”.  This procedure, described in detail on my page “Localized Axillary Procedures”, is also known as Subdermal Laser Ablation.  Basically, the idea is to suck out the sweat glands in the underarm region.  Surgeons have offered variations on this procedure for years, but in the past there was a significant amount of scarring and extended recovery times.  Now, because of advances in technology, surgeons are able to make a very small incision to do the surgery and there is virtually no scarring and little down time.

I think that Dr. Jacobs does a very good job concisely describing what Hyperhidrosis is and how it affects daily life.

Here is the story:
FoxNewsChannel

I want to express my admiration to the gentleman in the story who was brave enough to not only talk about his challenges on camera, but also allowed the camera crew to show his sweating up close.  He did his part to show millions of viewers that Hyperhidrosis interferes with life in every way– and he was so matter of fact about it, and not ashamed.  WELL DONE, SCOTT!

While surgery is always a drastic measure and comes with inherent risks, I think that this “sweat lipo” is a great option for those with Axillary Hyperhidrosis.  That is, it’s a great option if done by an experienced, excellent surgeon.  If you think this procedure is for you, I recommend thoroughly researching what the procedure is (start by reading my page on it, linked above) and finding a surgeon you can have confidence in.  Also check into your insurance coverage and any or all costs involved.  Wish they could do it for hands and feet!