the Link Between Sympathetic Nerve Surgery and Facial Flushing

The relationship between sympathetic nerve resection and blushing?

Thirteen years ago, I underwent a sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis.
After the surgery, compensatory sweating shifted to my legs and the soles of my feet, and I also experienced facial flushing.
I'm unsure if this is due to an inability to sweat or regulate heat from my neck.
My concern is that while some people undergo this surgery to treat facial flushing, I developed it after the procedure.
I was even misdiagnosed with lupus erythematosus.
In recent years, my hands occasionally sweat again, and after long-term use of topical steroids prescribed by a dermatologist, my skin has developed rosacea.
I really don't know if this is a sympathetic nerve issue or if I truly have rosacea.

Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/28

Dr. Zheng Zhong reply Neurosurgery

It is rare to experience hand cracking and rosacea-like skin conditions after sympathetic nerve ablation.
Long-term inappropriate use of medications is more likely to be the cause.
It is recommended that you consult another dermatologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2010/02/28

More Info

The situation you describe involves a complex interplay between the sympathetic nervous system, surgical interventions, and the resulting physiological changes in your body. To understand the link between sympathetic nerve surgery and facial flushing, we need to delve into the anatomy and function of the sympathetic nervous system, as well as the potential consequences of surgical interventions.

The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions, including sweating, blood vessel constriction, and heart rate. In the case of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), surgical procedures such as sympathectomy are performed to cut or remove parts of the sympathetic nerves that control sweating in specific areas, like the hands. While this can effectively reduce sweating in the targeted area, it can lead to compensatory sweating in other regions of the body, such as the legs and feet, as you have experienced.

The phenomenon of facial flushing or redness post-surgery can be attributed to several factors. After sympathectomy, the body's thermoregulation may be disrupted. The sympathetic nerves play a crucial role in regulating blood flow and sweat production, which are essential for maintaining body temperature. When these nerves are severed, the body may struggle to dissipate heat effectively, leading to increased blood flow to the face and resultant flushing. This flushing can be exacerbated by emotional stress or physical exertion, as the body attempts to compensate for the loss of sympathetic control.

Interestingly, while some individuals undergo similar surgeries to treat conditions like facial blushing (erythrophobia), the outcomes can vary significantly. In your case, the surgery seems to have triggered a condition that resembles rosacea or exacerbated existing skin issues, leading to misdiagnoses such as lupus erythematosus. This highlights the complexity of diagnosing skin conditions, especially when surgical history is involved.

Regarding your concerns about the skin changes and the use of topical steroids, prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning and other side effects, which may contribute to the appearance of your skin resembling that of rosacea. It is essential to consult with a dermatologist who can evaluate your skin condition accurately and recommend appropriate treatments that do not exacerbate the issue.

In summary, the link between sympathetic nerve surgery and facial flushing is multifaceted, involving the disruption of normal thermoregulatory mechanisms and potential compensatory responses. The surgical alteration of nerve pathways can lead to unexpected outcomes, such as compensatory sweating and facial redness. It is crucial to work closely with healthcare providers, including neurologists and dermatologists, to address these concerns comprehensively. They can help you navigate the complexities of your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan that considers both your surgical history and current skin condition.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sympathectomy for Facial Blushing: Is It Right for You?

Does your hospital perform sympathetic nerve resection surgery? I often experience facial flushing, which causes significant distress. Thank you.

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
This issue does not pertain to dermatology; please consult thoracic surgery or neurosurgery instead.

Can Honnath's Phenomenon Be Prevented in Sympathetic Nerve Surgery?

I would like to ask a physician in the southern region who believes that using a titanium clip to block the superior margin of the second nerve can treat my facial flushing and mild erythema. He thinks this is an issue of sympathetic nerve hyperactivity. After undergoing his surg...

Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Essentially, this is a relatively new technology, and most physicians do not have much experience with it. However, any surgery may have potential complications, so it is important to discuss thoroughly with your physician before making a decision. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsie...

Can Endoscopic Sympathetic Nerve Block Help Treat Facial Flushing?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if endoscopic sympathetic nerve block can be used to treat the problem of facial flushing? Are there hospitals in Taiwan that perform this surgery specifically for facial flushing? Thank you!

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
I haven't heard of it.

Understanding Sympathectomy: Procedure, Costs, and Recovery Insights

Does your hospital perform sympathetic nerve resection surgery? I often experience facial flushing, which causes significant distress. Thank you! How difficult is the surgery, and what are the costs involved? How many days is the recovery period? What are the expected outcomes? T...

Dr. Xiao Furen reply Neurosurgery
Our hospital performs sympathetic nerve resection surgery, which is an endoscopic procedure for primary hyperhidrosis. The costs can be covered by health insurance and are generally within an acceptable range. Typically, patients are admitted today, undergo surgery tomorrow, and ...