What can I do about this very painful LARGE armpit fat/back fat? (photo)

Question

Iv noticed my one armpit in particular being extremely painful all the time especially when I'm sleeping. I went to the doctor to see if it was cancerous and he said no it's just fat tissue. I cant afford surgery and I tried non invasive laser lipo with zero results. I'm wondering if there is any place that would give me a deal or even free in exchange for all before/after photos/videos and reviews?! I'm sick of being in discomfort and in pain :( I'm in Vancouver area but willing to travel.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. I am going to disagree with a lot of other surgeons on here who are going to tell you that you need liposuction, etc. This is called aberrant axillary breast tissue. It is where during development, some of the glandular breast tissue gets held up in the axillary area instead of descending into the chest. As you develop, this area can swell and get tender and can even get larger during your cycle. I have even had patients who also had an accessory nipple in the area or when they became pregnant, the area swelled with milk production. This problem needs to be addressed with direct excision and removal of the breast tissue and it needs to be sent to pathology for evaluation. This should be covered by insurance. You need to talk to your regular doctor about a referral to a a plastic surgeon who takes insurance to deal with this type of problem. Hope this helps!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For best results removing fat in this area and body shaping, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER liposuction. I use VASER HI DEF with ThermiRF and fat grafting to get the most fat removal, skin tightening, contour and definition. This combination will give you the most toned result. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hi definition physique expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Tarick K. Smiley, MD · Answer

Due to the extent and density of the armpit fat, the only way to help you is the standard (surgical method) liposuction.  Take note that no amount of non-invasive procedure can help solve the problem. Insurance rarely pays for liposuction, which is traditionally considered a cosmetic or elective procedure.  But since you've mentioned that your armpit fat is causing pain and discomfort, you may ask your insurance if they can cover or at least partly pay for the surgery that can help relieve the physical symptoms you're experiencing.Good luck and best wishes.

Douglas McGeorge, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

You look to have axillary breast tissue.  If soft it could be treated with liposuction but, as most are fibrous, surgical excision is usually required.
In view of the pain, it may be something that can be treated by medical insurance.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

The area is called the Axillary Tail of Spence and is quite common in many women and can effectively be removed with surgery in many cases with liposuction or direct excision.  Dr Corbin

What can I do about this very painful LARGE armpit fat/back fat? (photo)

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Answer: Painful Armpit Fat

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What can I do about this very painful LARGE armpit fat/back fat? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Painful Armpit Fat

Answer: Painful Armpit Fat

Answer: Armpit

Answer: Armpit

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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.