Which department should I visit for surgery for axillary odor?

Generally, for bromhidrosis (body odor) surgery, patients may visit the dermatology, plastic surgery, general surgery, medical aesthetics, or endocrinology departments. Different departments may vary in definitions, understanding of causes, symptom focus, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dermatology

Dermatology primarily addresses diseases related to the skin and its appendages. The focus is on the intensity of odor in the armpit area, the amount of perspiration, and whether there is accompanying skin redness. Diagnosis mainly involves direct olfactory examination and visual inspection of the armpit skin condition by the physician, with simple sweat composition testing used when necessary.

2. Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery centers on surgical treatments aimed at improving physical appearance and function, viewing bromhidrosis surgery as a procedure to enhance both armpit odor and appearance. The cause is associated with abnormal development and distribution of apocrine sweat glands. Symptoms focus on the impact of odor on the patient's appearance and social interactions, while also considering the local armpit morphology.

3. General Surgery

General Surgery is a comprehensive department that classifies bromhidrosis as a disease caused by abnormal surface glands. Diagnosis involves routine physical examination and olfactory assessment of odor; blood tests may be performed when necessary to rule out infection. Treatment primarily involves traditional surgical excision of apocrine sweat gland tissue in the armpit, emphasizing complete removal of the lesion to reduce recurrence rates.

4. Medical Aesthetics

Medical aesthetics focuses on enhancing physical appearance through medical interventions, viewing bromhidrosis surgery as a cosmetic procedure to improve body odor and personal appeal. The cause is attributed to the unique composition of sweat secreted by apocrine glands, which produces odor upon bacterial decomposition, affecting personal image. Symptom focus includes the impact of odor in social settings and any aesthetic concerns regarding the armpit skin.

5. Endocrinology

Endocrinology approaches bromhidrosis from the perspective of endocrine regulation, associating it with hormonal changes affecting apocrine gland secretion. Causes often include increased hormone secretion during puberty or endocrine disorders. Treatment involves regulating hormone levels with medication if bromhidrosis results from endocrine imbalances, sometimes combined with surgical removal of sweat glands when necessary.

In addition, some hospitals' general outpatient clinics can provide initial consultation and departmental guidance services. When choosing a department, consider your treatment preferences and the specific characteristics of the hospital's departmental setup. Preoperative communication with your doctor is essential to clarify the treatment plan and postoperative care essentials.