Axillary breast tissue removal surgery - will it cause a hard lump?

Hello Mathilda,
It appears like your friend has more post operative swelling. Swelling is common in all surgeries. The amount of swelling differs between patients. So you need not have the same type issue if you undergo surgery.
Eventually all these swelling reduces, you have to give some time for body to heal and be patient. Massaging the area helps to reduce it. Start massaging after your surgeon approves of it.
Hope this helps

Hi there it is the axillary tail of the breast that was removed, it sounds like she had a hematoma or seroma. It happens sometimes and the body absorbs it but it may take a couple of months. Wearing a compression bra and daily massage with antiinflammatory gel like Voltarol will speed it up.

Dear Mathilda07033,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, axillary breast tissue can be removed without the creation of hard mass. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Generally speaking there is not a hardened area like the one you describe after tissue removal. Your friend's may be related to swelling. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon during a consultation.

More commonly, I liposuction the area and get great results with a tiny armpit incision. The fat and breast tissue is suctioned and removed. There are some patients with redundant skin. If bothersome, it may be cut out later. Because of the skin contraction post liposuction, there is less skin to remove and a shorter scar. Rarely do I ever get requests for that skin to be excised.
Best wishes
Dr. Taranow