I am scheduled for Hidradentis supportiva excision of my right arm pit next week and I am scared. I have had 3 separate abscesses which 2 were drained and packed and 1 had a penrose drain for 5 days. The doctor says that he will take the scar tissue and abscesses out and then close both sides up and leave it open in the middle to heal from the inside out. I currently do not have any boils so I guess I am just wondering what the procedure is like? How long will the pain last? Will I be able to lift my arm up? etc etc. I am a worrier. I know its minor surgery and he said my case is not a severe case.