5'6, 178lbs, is this fat or axillary breast tissue? (Photos)

It is likely a combination of both. Your history suggests that there is an element of axillary breast tissue, but visually I suspect there is excess fat present as well. Your surgeon can confirm the condition with a physical examination. He or she can then discuss treatment options.

That area is likely axillary breast tissue. Liposuction during breast reduction surgery will improve it, however there are times that separate formal excision will be required. This should be done as a separate procedure so as not to compromise the blood supply to the breast reduction skin.

Thank you for your query! It is difficult to say if it is breast tissue or a combination of fat and breast tissue in your armpit , based on your photographs. However, based on your history, there is certainly an element of breast tissue in your armpit. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best!

This is most likely fat tissue that will respond to liposuction of the front bra roll (or side breast) which is commonly added-on done at the time of breast reduction. This helps clean out the fat under the arm to complete framing and delineating the outer breast area. This fold will shrink significantly, but there will still be a small remnant of the fold left, it is impossible to completely eliminate without removal the skin leaving a visible, unsightly scar; but still beneficial realising this limitation. Thank you.

Hello, my name is Dr Igor Burko and I am a Plastic Surgeon at SY Aesthetics in NYC. Based on your photos, I believe that is axillary breast tissue.

Hi,

Thank you for the question and the photos.

Based on your photos, you have a combination of excess fatty tissue in axilla, as well as axillary breast tissue present.

The main treatment is typically a combination of liposuction to remove excess fat and direct excision through a small scar placed in the armpit crease to remove accessory axillary breast tissue.

The decision to proceed with one method vs. the other depends or combination of both on patient’s clinical exam, skin pinch assessment and amount of fatty tissue vs. actual breast tissue present.

I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.

I hope this helps.
Best regards, Dr. Karanetz

Dr. Irena Karanetz
Breast Fellowship-Trained
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

It is most likely fat and it extends into the axillary area. This can be liposucted, however the skin may hang. You can also have this removed with a transaxillary incision which will also cut out the skin.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thanks for your question! That is likely a combination of breast tissue and fat. It would likely need to be removed by surgical excision. I would suggest an in-person consultation for an exact answer. Good luck!

You may have some excess breast tissue since it appears to have reacted to hormones and was present early in life at normal weight. This can be excised with the excess skin if you are interested.

The area that concerns you is likely a combination of fat and breast tissue. It can be addressed through excision which would improve the contour by removing the excess tissue and skin. See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.