Difference between armpit fat and axillary breast? (Photo)

While this does have an appearance of axillary breast tissue a formal examination would be necessary to confirm this. 

Thank you for your question and your photo.  It can be difficult to determine from just a photograph the difference between axillary breast tissue and simple excess fat.  This is best determined by direct examination, and possible ultrasound imaging.  Axillary breast is best removed by direct surgical excision, with an incision that hides in the armpit.  Excess fat in this area is often problematic to get rid of by diet and exercise alone - this represents a very common "problem area", even in people who are otherwise quite thin.  Liposuction is an easy and effective means of treating the problem, with minimal recovery time and discomfort.

Thank
you for your question. An examination would be necessary to evaluate
if liposuction alone or liposuction in combination with a skin excision
is needed. Consult with a board certified Plastic Surgeon.
Best Wishes

Thank you for your question and posting appropriate pictures. You do seem to have axillary breast tissue especially if you notice changes in the size at the time of menstural  cycle. This needs to be confirmed by physical examination. If so, you could be excised through a incision in the axillary region.

Hi Aparna - Thanks for your question and sharing the picture. It's hard to say if it is breast tissue or fat but either way this would be best treated with a short surgical procedure to remove the mass, and get rid of the bump. This would likely be a combination of both liposuction and removal of the mass with a tiny incision hidden in the hairline. Best of luck,Dr. Chopra

A lump or swelling in the arm pit could be FAT/ LYMPh node or Accessory breast. Clinically all three feels different on examination. History wise accessory breast shows enforcement during lactation and pre menstrual. Confirmation can be established through an ultrasound. Treatment is removal through liposuction with excision of the gland if it’s an accessory breast.

HiIt's not possible to make the distinction between either based on the pics. Would likely still be difficult even with an in-person exam. So-called 'ectopic' rests of breast tissue, such as in the armpits, may enlarge with the menstrual cycle, but alas this not being the case cannot confirm the areas are just made of fat.Regardless, the amount of tissue there seems to be significant, and with the skin stretched so much, you're most likely better off with an excision - the tissue exam from this would be able to give you a reliable answer.I hope this helps.....

Armpit fat can be associated with being above one's ideal body weight, but not always. I've seen patients who are very thin with a prominent bulge of armpit fat.An axillary breast would have a "supernumerary" ("extra") nipple.Unfortunately, if you are at a good weight, there isn't much you can do on your own to get rid of it. Even liposuction for a well defined armpit bulge with its own extra skin pocket won't smooth it out completely.If you ever decide to consult with a plastic surgeon, make sure to find someone who will know when to say no and who won't oversell what he/she can do. Click on the link below to help you sort out reputable plastic surgeons from the rest.

It looks more like axillary breast tissue but an exam in person and a discussion of your history would be very helpful.  Good luck.

Thanks for writing,Unfortunately exercise will not make this go away. Regardless of fat or axillary breast tissue the skin surrounding this area looks somewhat poor, that is poor elasticity and tone. As a result the skin will not shrink appropriately even if this were to go away with exercise, but to won't. Liposuction alone will not help completely. The excessive weak skin will need to be adjusted. The best way to determine what needs to be done is to seek out a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, who upon a good physical examination can be highly specific relative to your choices. Good Luck, I hope this helpsStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery