Treatment of axillary osmidrosis using a laser with a 1,444-nm wavelength.

BACKGROUND

Lasers have been proposed as an alternative treatment for axillary osmidrosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the use of a neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser with a wavelength of 1,444 nm for treating axillary osmidrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen patients with axillary osmidrosis who underwent an operation with a 1,444-nm wavelength laser were included in this study. Operative parameters were as follows: pulse = 40 Hz and energy = 170 mJ. Total energy was approximately 2,000 to 3,400 J, and the operation time was 45 minutes.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences in the degree of malodor evaluated by both the patients (p = .001) and doctors (p = .012) were detected between preoperative and 6-month postoperative assessments. Sweat area was significantly reduced 6 months after the operation compared with preoperative values. Postoperative pain had subsided at day 7 in all but 1 patient. Two patients (11.1%) experienced superficial second-degree burns on the unilateral axilla; these burns were resolved fully.

CONCLUSION

The laser with a wavelength of 1,444 nm was found to be a reliable method for the treatment of axillary osmidrosis, with advantages such as small wound size, rapidity of the procedure, inconspicuous scars, and speedy recovery and return to normal daily activities.