The Breakdown of Hyperhidrosis Surgery Costs
Healthcare is overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out medical care costs. If you're thinking about getting hyperhidrosis surgery (otherwise known as ETS surgery), know that it doesn't come cheap.
Hyperhidrosis surgery costs can vary widely depending on your insurance policy, physician, condition, or even where you live. Let's break down hyperhidrosis surgery costs, what it entails and crucial questions you need to consider before determining if it’s the right option for you.
What Is Hyperhidrosis Surgery?
During endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) surgery, surgeons attempt to interrupt the transmission of nerve signals between the sweat glands and spinal column. The purpose of ETS it to prevent nerve signals from “triggering” the sweat glands that cause excessive sweating.
ETS surgery is performed under general anesthesia. A mini camera is inserted into the chest and a lung is temporarily collapsed to give the surgeons more room to locate the nerve paths.
ETS surgery is typically a last resort for hyperhidrosis. It is irreversible, has mixed results and frequently causes compensatory sweating, as well as other conditions including arrhythmia and heat intolerance.
Read about Thompson Tee founder Randy Choi’s experience with ETS surgery.
How Much Does Hyperhidrosis Surgery Cost?
ETS surgery costs vary widely. It is impossible to state the exact cost of hyperhidrosis surgery, but in the U.S. it has been reported as a range of $5,000 to 10,000 or more.
Surgery costs are determined by a myriad of factors and depend on your particular case. There are often several physicians involved, including the surgeon and anesthesia provider. Each physician involved in a surgery submits a separate bill for their services. Other surgery costs include the cost of the operating room, any necessary medications, recovery room, pre-surgery testing and care, hospital care and consultations.
We recommend that you talk to your doctor or insurance company to get a more exact estimate.
Is Hyperhidrosis Surgery Right For Me?
Before any surgery, it's important to get the facts. Here are some tips to help you determine accurate ETS surgery costs and decide if it's the right option for you.
- Insurance coverage. Some insurance policies cover hyperhidrosis surgery costs and treatments, but others don't. Consult your insurance provider to see what is covered.
- Choose your physician carefully. ETS surgery does not have a guaranteed success rate. If you do decide to move forward with hyperhidrosis surgery, make sure your surgeon is well-trained, informed and up-to-date on the most recent research. You should discuss all treatment options, side effects and details of hyperhidrosis surgery with them, in addition to doing your own research. Make sure to ask about the percentage of patients who experience side effects a few years after having ETS — complications can become apparent over time.
- Do your research. When doing research online, make sure you review reputable sources. Peer-reviewed, published research studies are a great source for info on ETS. You can also ask your physician if you can speak to patients who have had the procedure done.
ETS surgery is a permanent, irreversible option that doesn't have guaranteed results. All other less invasive treatment options should be exhausted first before opting for hyperhidrosis surgery.
If you're looking for a non-invasive, 100% natural way to stop armpit sweat from ruining your life, try a sweat proof Thompson Tee undershirt, available in men's and women's styles. The patented Hydro-Shield technology absorbs and blocks underarm sweat from seeping through your clothes and causing unwanted pit stains. Pair it with your favorite antiperspirant for extra comfort, and never worry about sweat marks again! It's the easiest way to manage excessive sweating and avoid the potential negative effects of hyperhidrosis surgery.
