Does excessive sweating of the hands require surgery? | How to know if you are a candidate for ETS surgery

Short Answer

Not everyone with palmar hyperhidrosis needs surgery.
However, in severe and persistent cases that significantly affect daily life and do not respond to other treatments, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) may be the most effective and definitive solution.

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How Do You Know You Don’t Need Surgery?

You likely do NOT need surgery if your condition is:

• Mild to moderate sweating

• Occurs only during stress or heat

• Improves with topical treatments

• Does not significantly affect your daily life

 In these cases, conservative treatment is recommended.

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When Should You Consider Surgery?

Surgery may be an appropriate option if you experience:

• Severe excessive sweating of the hands

• Constant moisture even without triggers

• Difficulty shaking hands or using your hands normally

• Ongoing social embarrassment

• Impact on work or academic performance

• No improvement with other treatments

In these cases, surgery becomes a highly effective option.

Are You a Candidate for ETS Surgery? (Quick Test)

Answer the following:

• Do you have severe and persistent sweating?

• Does sweating affect your daily life?

• Have you tried treatments without success?

• Has the condition been present for years?

 If you answered “Yes” to 3 or more,
you may be a strong candidate for ETS surgery.

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What Is ETS Surgery?

Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS) is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions in the chest, without the need for open surgery.

Goal:

 To interrupt the nerve signals responsible for excessive sweating

Advantages of ETS

• No need to open the chest

• Procedure takes less than 1 hour

• Immediate results (dry hands right after surgery)

• Discharge within 24 hours

• Permanent solution in most cases

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Is the Surgery Safe?

ETS is considered very safe when performed by an experienced thoracic surgeon.

However, like any procedure, some side effects may occur:

• Compensatory sweating (in other body areas)

• Mild postoperative pain

• Rare complications

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Are the Results Permanent?

Yes, in most cases, the results are:

 Permanent and highly effective

Important Note

If you would like to learn more about the condition and non-surgical treatment options,
you can visit our full page on palmar hyperhidrosis.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does palmar hyperhidrosis always require surgery?
No, only severe cases that do not respond to treatment.

When is surgery the best option?
When sweating is severe and affects daily life.

Are the results immediate?
Yes, hands are usually dry immediately after surgery.

Can sweating return after surgery?
Very rarely.

What is compensatory sweating?
It is increased sweating in other areas of the body after surgery.

Is the procedure painful?
Pain is usually mild and easily controlled.

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 Book Your Consultation

If you suffer from palmar hyperhidrosis and are looking for a definitive solution,
a proper evaluation is the first step.

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Dr. Mohammad Tarshihi
Consultant Thoracic Surgeon

 Amman, Jordan
+962779794141
💬 WhatsApp available for direct booking