Refined tumescent liposuction-curettage with pruning in small incisions for treatment of axillary bromhidrosis

Abstract Background Axillary bromhidrosis is widespread social problem in our society. Various modalities have been developed for destruction or removal of the apocrine sweat glands to eliminate the malodor. But conventional surgical treatments often result in high complication rate and frequent recurrence. In the study, we evaluate the effect of refined tumescent liposuction-curettage with pruning in small incisions in the treatment of axillary bromhidrosis. Methods From July of 2013 to April of 2019, 110 patients (75 women and 35 men) with axillary bromhidrosis were treated by refined tumescent liposuction-curettage with pruning. The results of malodor elimination were evaluated by both the patients and doctors as very satisfied (excellent), satisfied (good), some satisfied (fair), and not satisfied (poor). Postoperative complications, including dehiscence, infection, wound contracture, cyst, subcutaneous hydrops, haematoma or seroma were evaluated as well. Preoperative and postoperative histological examinations of axillary tissue were performed in 2 patients. Results Among subjective evaluation of the 110 patients, 33 (30.0%) were graded as very satisfed results, 70 (63.6%) were satisfied, and 7 (6.4%) was some satisfied. The objective evaluation showed 43 (39.1%) were graded as excellent results and all the others were good. No serious complications were happened except three showed slightly local subcutaneous hydrops and haematoma. Histologic examinations showed the apocrine glands significant decreased or destroyed after surgery. Conclusion Refined tumescent liposuction-curettage with pruning in small incisions is an effective method for treatment of axillary bromhidrosis.