How to get rid of excess armpit skin? (photos)

Question

Hi! My whole life i have had excess skin under my arms (armpits). Even in HS when I was 115lbs at 5"7. It is so ugly- I am very conscious about how my arms are placed in photos and what I wear. Is there any procedure that can minimize or remove this skin? I don't have excess arm skin so I don't think a mini arm lift is for me.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding how to remove excess armpit skin. Based on your description and history, it sounds like you may benefit from a procedure that specifically targets the armpit area.

Excess skin or wrinkled skin in the armpit can be effectively addressed during a brachioplasty (arm lift) if the incision is extended into the armpit and down the torso. This technique is particularly useful for patients who do not have excess skin along the length of the arm but are bothered by sagging or wrinkling localized to the armpit or extending onto the upper torso. By extending the incision, your surgeon can remove the excess tissue in this area, tighten the skin, and create a smoother and more contoured appearance.

Since you do not have excess skin on your upper arms and feel a traditional arm lift might not suit you, an extended approach focusing solely on the armpit and torso may be ideal. I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing these types of tailored procedures. They can assess your skin laxity and discuss whether extending the incision would achieve the aesthetic result you desire.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photo, it appears that simple excision of redundant skin in axilla will solve the problem. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon, is recommended. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear JMMM1233,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, this excess can be excised with the incision mainly in the armpit to help hide it. Also, radiofrequency treatments like Renuvion, could be used for skin tightening to improve it, and this is done with a small incision.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

This is mostly an issue of excess skin when you lower your arms to your side. There is excess fatty tissue to speak of. Your best option to address this is to have the excess skin removed using a transverse (armpit) incision. As long as the incision does not extend too far to the front or back, it will be well hidden.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos it appears that excision of the excess skin should help improve your concerns.  The incision would likely be hidden mostly in the underarm.  See a board certified plastic surgeon to learn more.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for nicely posted photos. Only surgical excision with layered/local flap closure can offer the results desired. Fees in the $4,000-$6,000 ranges. Best to virtual consult with...

How to get rid of excess armpit skin? (photos)

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