What is Axillary Breast Removal?
Axillary breast removal, also known as axillary breast tissue excision, is a targeted surgical procedure that addresses excess breast tissue that extends into the underarm area. This condition, medically termed accessory breast tissue or axillary breast hypertrophy, affects many individuals and can cause discomfort, restricted movement, difficulty with clothing fit, and self-consciousness. The procedure precisely removes the excess tissue while preserving natural contours, creating a smoother transition between the breast and underarm area. Unlike standard breast reduction, this specialized procedure focuses specifically on the axillary region to address this distinct aesthetic and functional concern.
The Axillary Breast Removal Procedure
During the procedure, the surgeon begins by making discreet incisions, typically placed within the natural creases of the armpit to minimize visible scarring. After administering anesthesia—either local with sedation or general, depending on the extent of the procedure—the surgeon carefully excises the excess breast tissue from the axillary region. In some cases, liposuction techniques may be combined with direct excision to achieve optimal contouring. Special attention is paid to preserving proper lymphatic drainage and maintaining a natural-looking junction between the breast and arm. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day.
Recovery and Results
Following axillary breast removal, patients typically experience moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area, which gradually subsides over 1-2 weeks. A compression garment may be recommended to reduce swelling and support the healing tissues. Most individuals can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks, though strenuous upper body exercises should be avoided for approximately 4-6 weeks. Initial results are visible once swelling begins to subside, with final results developing over 3-6 months as tissues settle. The procedure creates a smoother, more defined contour between the breast and underarm, allowing for improved comfort, enhanced range of motion, and greater confidence in fitted clothing.
Causes of Axillary Breast Tissue
Axillary breast tissue can develop due to various factors, including genetic predisposition, hormonal influences, and body weight fluctuations. Embryologically, breast tissue develops along the ‘milk line’ extending from the armpit to the groin, and sometimes tissue remains in the axillary region even after normal breast development. This condition may become more noticeable during puberty, pregnancy, or weight gain when hormonal changes stimulate breast tissue growth. While not medically dangerous, axillary breast tissue can cause physical discomfort, restrict arm movement, create challenges with clothing fit, and cause psychological distress for many individuals. Surgical intervention offers a definitive solution for those seeking relief from these concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal candidates for axillary breast removal are individuals troubled by excess breast tissue in the underarm area causing physical discomfort, restricted movement, or self-consciousness. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers or willing to quit before surgery, and have realistic expectations about results. This procedure is particularly beneficial for those who have attempted weight loss but found the axillary tissue resistant to change. A comprehensive consultation will evaluate your anatomy, health history, and expectations to determine if this procedure is appropriate for your specific concerns.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, axillary breast removal should not affect normal breast function. The procedure specifically targets the accessory breast tissue in the underarm area, distinct from the main breast tissue. Great care is taken to preserve important structures, including lymphatic drainage pathways that are essential for breast health. However, if you are planning to breastfeed in the future, it’s important to discuss this with your surgeon, as some axillary breast tissue may contain functional milk ducts in certain individuals.
Scars from axillary breast removal are typically well-concealed within the natural creases of the armpit, making them inconspicuous even when wearing sleeveless clothing. Initially, scars may appear red or raised but generally fade and flatten over 6-12 months. Your surgeon will provide specific scar care instructions to optimize healing, which may include silicone-based products, proper sun protection, and possibly steroid preparations for individuals prone to prominent scarring. Most patients find that the improvement in contour and comfort far outweighs any concerns about scarring.
When properly performed, axillary breast removal produces permanent results as the excised tissue does not regenerate. However, significant weight gain, hormonal changes during pregnancy, or certain medications may cause enlargement of any small amounts of remaining breast tissue. For this reason, your surgeon will typically remove as much of the axillary breast tissue as possible while maintaining natural contours. Maintaining a stable weight following your procedure helps ensure long-lasting results.
No, axillary breast removal and hyperhidrosis treatment are distinct procedures addressing different concerns. Axillary breast removal targets excess breast tissue in the underarm area, while hyperhidrosis treatments focus on reducing excessive sweating by targeting sweat glands. However, some patients with axillary breast tissue may also experience sweating issues in the area, and removing the excess tissue might provide some relief by reducing skin-to-skin contact. If excessive sweating is your primary concern, specific treatments for hyperhidrosis would be more appropriate, which your surgeon can discuss during your consultation.