Sweaty Palms Surgery Singapore: Does it Work?

Sweaty palms can be an embarrassing and frustrating condition to live with. Other than affecting your daily life, it also makes simple tasks like shaking hands or using touchscreens uncomfortable.
While non-surgical treatments like antiperspirants and medications may offer relief, some people turn to surgery for a more permanent solution. Learn more about surgery for sweaty palms on this page: https://www.icts.com.sg/hyperhidrosis-surgery-singapore/.
When considering surgery for sweaty palms in Singapore, the big question remains; how effective is surgery for sweaty palms? In this article, we’ll show you what causes sweaty palms which is medically known as palmar hyperhidrosis.
We will also explain what sweaty palms surgery involves, its effectiveness, and whether it’s the right choice for you. Let’s begin!
What Causes Sweaty Palms?
Sweaty palms occur when your body’s sweat glands are overactive. The condition is not related to heat or exercise but is caused by the overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system.
This system regulates many involuntary bodily functions, including sweating. Primary hyperhidrosis is the most common cause of sweaty palms.
It’s thought to be hereditary, as it often runs in families. In primary hyperhidrosis, the overactive sweat glands are localized to specific areas, such as the palms, feet, or underarms.
Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. It can be triggered by anxiety, hormonal imbalances, or disorders like diabetes.
If your sweating is widespread or occurs during sleep, it could be secondary hyperhidrosis. You will need a thorough medical assessment to determine the cause of excessive sweating and the most appropriate treatment.
What is Sweaty Palms Surgery?
You may be recommended sweaty palms surgery in Singapore if you’ve tried conservative treatments with no success, or you get symptoms which severely impact your daily life. Sweaty palms surgery is also known as Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS).
It is done to interrupt the sympathetic nerves responsible for excessive sweating. Here’s how it works;
Small incisions are made in the chest to insert a camera and surgical instruments to allow the surgeon to identify and either clamp or cut the specific nerves causing hyperhidrosis. This minimally invasive procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes one to two hours.
While ETS offers a permanent solution for sweaty palms, it is not without risks. Before consenting to the procedure, take your time to carefully consider the potential benefits and possible side effects. Here are the potential risks that you should know about before considering this treatment;
- Compensatory Sweating: This is the most common side effect of ETS. It is where the body compensates by sweating more in other areas like the back, chest, or thighs.
- Gustatory Sweating: Some patients experience sweating while eating spicy or flavorful foods.
- Rebound Sweating: This is quite rare. But, sweating may return to the palms over time.
- Nerve Damage: This is also quite rare. However it can happen, and when it does happen, nerve damage can lead to complications like chronic pain or Horner’s syndrome, which affects the eyelids.
So, Does Sweaty Palms Surgery Work?
ETS surgery is highly effective for treating palmar hyperhidrosis. Studies show that over 98% of patients experience a significant reduction in sweating after the procedure.
For many people, the improvement is life-changing as it allows them to regain confidence and enjoy a better quality of life.
The best part is that the results are long-lasting, and the recurrence of sweating in the treated area is rare. ETS surgery is typically recommended for individuals who:
- Have tried non-surgical treatments like antiperspirants, oral medications, or Botox injections without success.
- Experience severe sweating that interferes with daily activities and quality of life.
- Are in good overall health and understand the potential risks of surgery.
With that in mind before surgery, expect your doctor to conduct a detailed assessment to determine if ETS is suitable for you. Tests may include sweating assessments, imaging studies and general health screenings.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. However, the recovery is usually quick, with most patients able to return to work or normal activities within a week. Attentively follow your post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.
That far, you’re probably now wondering; how much does it cost to treat sweaty palms in Singapore? The cost of ETS surgery in Singapore varies depending on the hospital, surgeon, and additional fees for consultations and post-operative care.
On average, the procedure can cost between SGD 10,000 and SGD 12,000. Many clinics offer payment plans, and some insurance policies may cover part of the cost. It would help to consult multiple providers to understand the pricing and ensure you receive care from a qualified specialist.
If you’re hesitant about surgery, your doctor may recommend effective alternatives for the conditions. Key among the alternatives you may benefit from are;
- Topical Antiperspirants: Over-the-counter or prescription-strength antiperspirants which are formulated with aluminum chloride are commonly used to block sweat glands. These products reduce perspiration by forming a temporary plug in the sweat ducts. They are a non-invasive and easy-to-use option for managing mild cases of hyperhidrosis.
- Iontophoresis: This treatment involves immersing the hands in water while a mild electrical current is passed through. The current helps reduce sweating by blocking the sweat glands temporarily. It is a safe and effective option for individuals with mild to moderate hyperhidrosis.
- Botox Injections: Botox injections temporarily block the nerves that stimulate sweat production to effectively reduce perspiration. This treatment is particularly useful for localized areas like the hands or underarms. However, the effects are temporary, with results typically lasting only a few months before additional injections are needed.
- Oral Medications: Anticholinergic drugs work by blocking chemical signals that trigger sweating to reduce overall perspiration. These medications are often prescribed for more widespread hyperhidrosis. However, they may come with side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
- Lifestyle Changes: Managing stress, avoiding triggers such as spicy foods, and wearing breathable fabrics can also help reduce excessive sweating. These changes address underlying causes or contributing factors to hyperhidrosis. While they may not eliminate sweating entirely, they can significantly reduce its severity.
In Closing
Sweaty palms surgery is a proven solution for severe palmar hyperhidrosis as it offers long-term relief for most patients. If you’re struggling with sweaty palms, consult a specialist in Singapore to compare your treatment options. Schedule an appointment with a knowledgeable doctor below;
International Centre for Thoracic Surgery – Robotic Lung Surgery | Lung Cancer Treatment Singapore
38 Irrawaddy Road, Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
Irrawaddy Rd, #10 38, Singapore 329563
+65 6591 8801