1 yr post op, will weight loss aid in fat reduction of the under arm area or will this need to be surgically removed? (photos)

Question

1 yr post op, how do I deal with the fat under my arms? Would weight loss solve this or would surgery be the only way to deal None

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The area that concerns you needs to be examined to determine if it is excess fat, skin laxity or a combination.  It is likely a combination in which case surgical removal would give the most predictable result.  If it is just excess fat then localized liposuction should improve it.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding if weight loss will aid in the fat reduction of the underarm area or if it will need to be surgically removed. Unfortunately, I do not think further weight loss will reduce this area of skin and fat; I think it needs to be surgically removed. You may have loose skin in this area if you have liposuction. Therefore, I would suggest an incision be placed around this area of excess skin and fat, and the excess skin and fat be directly excised. It may be possible that this area can be done in the office under local anesthesia. However, weight loss will not solve this problem. I hope this helps to answer your question.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Liposuction sholud be the first option. However, if skin is not expected to retrsct (this can be evaluated only in person), direct excision of the role may be necessary. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Bgt86,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like weight loss won't help with this issue. 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

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

What you have is excess skin of the anterior axilla (most commonly from weight loss).  This area is not amenable to liposuction, but rather skin excision.  The challenge here is that the scar is visible as it must run superiorly above the fold and down into the armpit.  If too much skin is excised, the ability to raise your arm above your head is limited or the wound dehisces (opens up).  
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

1 yr post op, will weight loss aid in fat reduction of the under arm area or will this need to be surgically removed? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Under arm area

Answer: Under arm area

Answer: Excess anterior axilla skin

Answer: Excess anterior axilla skin

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1 yr post op, will weight loss aid in fat reduction of the under arm area or will this need to be surgically removed? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Under arm area

Answer: Under arm area

Answer: Excess anterior axilla skin

Answer: Excess anterior axilla skin

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.