Weekdays 9:30am - 7pm.
Alternate Saturdays 9am - 5pm.
Getting Here
By Car/Taxi

Public parking available or drop off along Arab Street, Village Hotel Bugis (Previously known as Golden Landmark Hotel)

By Public Transport

Buses (2, 12, 32, 33, 130, 133, 133A, 520, 960, NR7)  MRT (alight at Bugis MRT station)

Follow us
Getting Here
Follow us

Get In Touch

Singapore’s Complete Guide on Armpit Fat & Axillary Accessory Breasts Tissue

November 6, 2022
October 15, 2024

Many women are conscious of the "bulge" that spills out. Do you know that the bulge could be armpit fat, axillary accessory breasts, OR BOTH?

axillary fat removal

Table of Contents

Many women are conscious of the "bulge" that spills out when wearing sports bras, tank tops, sleeveless tops and swimwear. To hide the bulge, they will try to tape it only to end up with nasty rashes, while some will habitually adjust the bra or top. But do you know that the bulge you may be experiencing could be axillary fat, axillary accessory breasts, OR BOTH? 

American sweetheart Jennifer Lawrence remarked that her armpit fat looked like an "armpit vagina" back in a red carpet event in 2014. Supermodel Chrissy Teigen shared that she had liposuction done to remove armpit fat as it dictated the clothes she would wear and affected her overall confidence. Indeed, armpit fat is notorious and hard to remove, as it does not respond to diet, exercise and non-invasive fat reduction methods.

Singapore’s Complete Guide on Armpit Fat & Axillary Accessory Breasts Tissue

What Are The Common Causes of Axillary Fat? 

Axillary fat, often referred to as armpit fat, can affect individuals of all genders, body shapes, and sizes, although it is more prevalent among women. It's a misconception that this issue only affects those who are overweight.  Even individuals with healthy body weights, including celebrities and supermodels, can experience it.

Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in how and where our bodies store fat. Research indicates that certain DNA factors can influence fat distribution. This study also indicated that women are more likely to inherit the genetic traits where they would deposit body fat in the same places that their biological ancestors did.  If you have a family history of armpit fat, such as a mother or sister with similar concerns, you may be more predisposed to developing it yourself.

Weight and Hormonal Changes

Gaining weight can make fat deposits more prominent in specific areas, including the arms and abdomen. Excess body weight may lead to an increase in armpit fat. Hormonal fluctuations also contribute to the development of axillary fat, particularly in women.

What Are Axillary Accessory Breasts?  

A less common but concerning issue is the presence of axillary accessory breast tissue, which refers to additional breast tissue located in the armpit area. 

Psychological Impact of Having Accessory Breast

This condition can lead to cosmetic concerns and discomfort. Dr Ivan Puah notes that accessory breast tissue can significantly impact a person's self-esteem and clothing choices. Those affected may also experience discomfort, pain, inability to maintain proper arm posture and, for some, pain along the medial arm. This can cause uncomfortable ordeals like wearing specific bras and clothing during daily chores.

Accessory breasts or excess armpit fat can seriously affect how someone feels about themselves, not just physically but also emotionally. Many people with this issue, whether it's from axillary fat or accessory breast tissue, often feel self-conscious. This can lead to avoiding social situations or activities they used to enjoy, causing feelings of isolation and lowered self-esteem.

Singapore’s Complete Guide on Armpit Fat & Axillary Accessory Breasts Tissue
Axillary Accessory Breasts

The accessory breast was classified by Kajava et al. in 1915 based on the composition of aberrant tissues and affects 2 to 6 % of women. The axillary accessory breast is located in the axilla and accounts for 20% of all accessory breast occurrences.

Axillary Accessory Breasts Kajava Classification – 1915

  • Grade I - Consists of a complete breast with a nipple, areola, and glandular tissue.
  • Grade II - Consists of glandular tissue and nipple without the areola.
  • Grade III - Consists of glandular tissue and areola without the nipple.
  • Grade IV - Consists of only glandular tissue. 
  • Grade V - Consists of only nipple and areola, without glandular tissue.
  • Grade VI - Consists of only the nipple.
  • Grade VII - Consists of only the areola.
  • Grade VIII - Consists of only hair.

If I Focus My Workout On My Arms and Chest, Will My Axillary Accessory Breasts Go Away?

The most common myth about workouts is that spot toning or targeted exercise is possible. Axillary fat removal is impossible by only exercising one part of your body and burning fat in that area. Although you can tone specific muscles, you cannot eliminate axillary fat or accessory breasts through exercise as it does not respond to this method.

Axillary Fat Removal | How Can I Get Rid of Armpit Fat and Axillary Accessory Breasts? 

The fat in your armpits will persist if nothing is done. You may lose weight and fat generally if you exercise and follow a healthy diet, but there is no way to know if your armpit fat will disappear by doing them. 

To date, liposuction and axillary accessory breast removal are clinically proven to effectively and permanently remove armpit fat and axillary accessory breasts.

What Are the Types of Accessory Breast Removal?

Singapore’s Complete Guide on Armpit Fat & Axillary Accessory Breasts Tissue
Armpit Fat Lipo & Accessory Breast Removal by Dr Ivan Puah in Singapore

Removing accessory breast tissue can significantly affect a person's life. This surgery targets the bulge, creating a smoother appearance and helping patients feel more comfortable in their skin. The results often go beyond the physical, boosting confidence and encouraging a more active, engaged lifestyle. 

Benefits of Accessory Breast Removal Surgery

  • Improved Appearance: Say goodbye to the bulge for a smoother and more contoured appearance.
  • Increased Comfort: Helps relieve discomfort or pain that excess tissue may cause.
  • Boosted Confidence: Many individuals feel more self-assured and willing to participate in social activities.
  • Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Reduces feelings of self-consciousness, leading to a happier, more fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know is grappling with the effects of accessory breast tissue, it's worth discussing options with Dr Ivan Puah. A personalised consultation can shed light on effective treatments leading to a more positive self-image and improved quality of life.

Axillary fat removal with Modern Liposuction with MDC-Sculpt® lipo technique by Dr Ivan Puah

Armpit fat is tough to tackle and does not respond to non-surgical methods or exercise. You may be doing a lot of workouts to target the problematic areas. Typical exercises may strengthen the chest muscles but won't eliminate that stubborn fat or address conditions like axillary accessory breast tissue.

Surgical intervention remains the most effective and permanent solution for tackling armpit fat. Dr Ivan Puah's Modern Liposuction with the MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique addresses this bothersome issue by removing unwanted fat and contouring the area for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Benefits of the MDC-Sculpt® Lipo Technique

  • Permanent Fat Removal: One-time fat removal. 
  • Minimal Scarring: The technique involves short, small and strategic incisions that leave minimal marks, ensuring a cleaner look post-procedure.
  • Natural Skin Retraction: Unlike traditional methods, this procedure promotes natural skin tightening, resulting in smooth contours without sagging.
  • Customised Approach: Dr. Puah tailors the procedure to fit each patient's unique body shape and needs, providing personalised care.

Confidence And Comfort In Wearing Clothing That Exposes The Armpit Area

By opting for the MDC-Sculpt® technique, patients can achieve a flatter appearance, improved confidence, and a more active lifestyle. If you're ready to address armpit fat effectively, consider a consultation with Dr Ivan Puah to explore your options.

Amaris B. Clinic: A Liposuction and Body Sculpting Clinic In Singapore

At Amaris B. Clinic, we take pride in offering customised body contouring treatments tailored to meet your unique needs and desired outcomes. Our approach centres on understanding your body type, clinical condition, and aesthetic goals, ensuring that each treatment plan is specifically designed for you.

Reference