Excessive sweating and hyperhidrosis surgery
Assessment and treatment options for excessive sweating that affects daily life.
Draft awaiting medical review · General information; not a substitute for an individual consultation and assessment.
Content updated: 22 October 2026 · Last physician review: not yet completed.
When is sweating considered a medical condition?
Sweating that cannot be explained by heat or exercise and affects everyday life may warrant assessment for hyperhidrosis. The hands, underarms or feet may be affected. Its onset, distribution, occurrence at night and any medications are important.
First, investigate the cause
Some people have no other identifiable underlying illness. In others, medication or underlying conditions may increase sweating. These causes are investigated first when sweating is new, widespread or accompanied by other symptoms. Assessment may involve dermatology and other relevant specialties.
Nonsurgical treatments
Topical antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections or medication in suitable patients may be considered. Not every method suits every area. Effectiveness, side effects and whether treatment needs repeating are discussed together.
The role of surgery and an important risk
A procedure targeting the sympathetic nerves inside the chest may be considered in selected patients. It is particularly considered for hand sweating and is not suitable for every type of sweating. A major issue is new or increased sweating on the back, abdomen or legs. This is called compensatory sweating and may be permanent and troublesome.
Before making a decision
Risks such as bleeding, pneumothorax, pain and nerve effects should also be discussed. Expectations, previous treatments and possible side effects are reviewed openly before surgery. Do not assume that the effects of the procedure can be completely reversed.
Frequently asked questions
Does surgery stop sweating throughout the body?
No. Even if sweating decreases in the targeted area, it may increase elsewhere.
Is surgery the first option?
Nonsurgical options and the cause of sweating are generally assessed first; surgery is discussed in selected cases.
Further reading
Patient information sources · Sources checked: 22 October 2026. Checking sources does not mean the text has been medically approved by the physician.