Is Liposuction with Shaving an Effective Treatment for Bromhidrosis

Abstract

Background: Bromhidrosis is a troublesome problem that includes unpleasant odor and the occasional staining of clothing. Bromhidrosis patients are known to have more apocrine sweat glands than normal adults. Aim and Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of treating axillary bromhidrosis by subcutaneous liposuction with shaving according to histological examination of apocrine glands. Materials and Methods: From January of 2007 through December of 2007, 6 patients underwent subcutaneous liposuction with shaving for bromhidrosis. Pre- and post-operative skin samples were collected and histologically examined to evaluate the number of apocrine sweat glands. The wound and odor conditions were followed up clinically. Results: The average number of apocrine glands is obviously decreased from 46.83 to 2.33 after the operation. All six patients were satisfied with the clinical results of the operation. Conclusion: The operation decreased the number of apocrine glands found under histologic examination and the unpleasant odor improved clinically. Our study found subcutaneous liposuction with shaving an effective treatment for bromhidrosis.