Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder that can affect women regardless of BMI. Here's why lipedema can remain hidden for years, especially in skinny women.
June 10, 2026
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A common bump on the road to looking good for many women is the much-dreaded armpit fat that spills out when wearing certain clothing like sports bras, tank tops, sleeveless tops and even swimwear.
This unwelcome presence puts a damper on the confidence, and no matter how hard a woman tries to conceal it, the armpit fat bulge simply won't budge.
Armpit Fat: What is it
Armpit fat, or axillary fat, develops around the armpit, often appearing as armpit fat bulges that spill over when wearing fitted tops or bras.
This issue isn't related to the size of a woman's breasts but is more influenced by genetics, which determines where the body stores fat.
While some may accumulate fat in areas, like the abdomen or thighs, others experience it in the armpit area.
Genetics, age, and hormonal changes are key in fat storage, particularly in this area. Excess fat in this area can impact self-confidence and body image.
5 Common Myths of Armpit Fat in Singapore
1. The armpit fat is caused by a tight bra or tops
While it's easy to attribute armpit fat to tight-fitting bras or tops, the issue often stems from fat deposits around the armpit area.
Loose-fitting garments can also contribute to the armpit fat bulge, as the underlying problem is excess fat rather than the fit of the clothing.
This can affect anyone, regardless of breast size or body type.
2. Armpit Fat only occurs in women
Contrary to popular belief, armpit fat and axillary breast tissue are not exclusive to women.
Although less common, men can also be affected, with 1% to 2% experiencing this condition.
3. Armpit fat is just fat and can be removed by exercise and diet
While diet and exercise are helpful for overall fat loss, they may not effectively target stubborn armpit fat.
This type of fat often requires more than just lifestyle changes for removal, highlighting the need for targeted treatments such as armpit fat liposuction.
4. Push-up exercises or weight lifting can get rid of armpit fat
Although exercises like push-ups and weight lifting can tone muscles, they do not lead to spot fat reduction. Spot fat reduction is still a myth.
Push-up exercises or weight lifting primarily strengthen surrounding muscles rather than directly reducing fat in the armpit area.
5. Armpit fat is easy to get rid of
Many people find armpit fat particularly stubborn, as it may not respond to traditional weight-loss methods, which can be frustrating for those trying to achieve a more toned appearance.
Why armpit fat does not respond to fat freezing
One treatment for Armpit Fat in Singapore is cryolipolysis, also known as fat freezing.
How Fat Freezing works
Fat freezing is a system that targets and freezes fat cells beneath the skin, leaving the skin itself unaffected.
The treated fat cells are crystallised, allowing the body to naturally remove them.
During the cryolipolysis treatment, the vacuum applicator "sucks" the treated area.
The patient may feel a slight pulling, tugging or a mild pinching sensation.
Controlled cooling is then delivered to the targeted area, and patients may feel intense cold, which will subside, leaving the area numb.
Patients can return to normal activities after the session ends.
Fat freezing results for armpit fat
Results are unpredictable, as it may work for some and not for others.
Multiple sessions may be required and may not be as effective as liposuction for axillary fat.
Complications or side effects from freezing armpit fat
Complications from fat freeze may be more common than expected.
Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia is a rare delayed side effect of fat-freezing treatment.
In this condition, the treated area becomes larger rather than smaller weeks after the procedure.
Cause of side effects from freezing armpit fat
The cause of this phenomenon is unknown.
What is known is that it is a rare delayed side effect following cryolipolysis, possibly due to unintended stimulation of tissue growth after a treatment that injures the target tissue.
The risk of PAH is reported to be 1/4000 by the manufacturer and apparently higher in males.
Armpit Liposuction with MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique
For individuals struggling with excess armpit fat that doesn't respond to non-invasive treatments, diet, or exercise, armpit liposuction with the MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique offers a safe and effective solution to improve body aesthetics.
Armpit Liposuction can effectively address armpit fat in Singapore, offering more permanent results for those struggling with resistant fat.
The MDC-Sculpt®️Lipo technique, developed by Dr Ivan Puah, is a targeted, one-time fat-reduction approach for stubborn fat in delicate areas like the armpit, where conventional methods may fall short.
How Armpit Liposuction Works
Armpit Liposuction removes fat from deeper layers with strategically placed incisions to minimise scarring.
Armpit liposuction, performed by Dr Puah, is carried out under local anaesthesia with the patient under twilight sedation. This ensures the patient's comfort and safety without the need for general anaesthesia.
This proprietary surgical method efficiently removes stubborn armpit fat, sculpts the area for a more contoured result, and firms loose skin.
Conducted at an accredited day surgery centre in Singapore, patients are cared for by a dedicated team of experienced surgical staff.
If loose skin is a contributing factor, treatments such as RF Microneedling or Ultherapy can help to lift and firm the skin, improving overall appearance.
