Fullness near the armpit is usually a pad of fat at the front of the underarm or along the bra line, often made more obvious by tight clothing. In some women it is accessory breast tissue, extra breast tissue that can swell with periods or pregnancy. Posture and fitted underwear also play a part. Fat in this area can be reduced with liposuction, while accessory breast tissue may need excision; any new or changing lump should be checked by your GP first.
What causes fullness near the armpit?
- Fat deposits: a common and often inherited pocket of fat at the front of the armpit or on the upper side of the chest.
- Bra fit: a band or straps that are too tight can push soft tissue into a visible bulge.
- Weight gain: additional weight often shows in the upper back and underarm area.
- Accessory breast tissue: extra breast tissue that developed along the ‘milk line’ from armpit to groin.
- Posture and muscle: rounded shoulders can accentuate the bulge; the chest muscle also shapes the area.
- Skin laxity: after weight loss or with age, loose skin can form a fold.
Accessory breast tissue explained
Before birth, breast tissue develops along two lines running from the armpits to the groin. Usually only the chest portion persists, but in some people a small amount remains in the armpit. It often becomes noticeable during puberty, pregnancy or breastfeeding, when it may swell, feel tender or even produce milk, and it can change with the menstrual cycle. Occasionally a small extra nipple is present. Accessory breast tissue is normal breast tissue and can be affected by the same conditions as the rest of the breast, which is why assessment matters.
When to see your GP
See your GP promptly if you notice a new lump in the armpit, especially if it is hard, fixed, growing, or accompanied by skin changes, nipple discharge, a lump in the breast, fever or unexplained weight loss. Swollen lymph glands in the armpit are common with infections but should be checked if they persist beyond a couple of weeks. A lump that is part of accessory breast tissue may need an ultrasound before any cosmetic treatment is considered. Continue with routine breast screening when invited.
Non-surgical measures
A professionally fitted bra with a wider band and correctly adjusted straps can reduce bulging considerably. Strength training for the chest, shoulders and back improves posture and tone, and overall weight loss can reduce the fat. Spot-reducing exercises cannot remove fat from the armpit alone. Non-surgical fat-reduction devices may help small, soft pockets in some people, though results are variable.
Liposuction for armpit fat
Where the fullness is mainly fat and the skin has good tone, liposuction can reduce it through a tiny incision hidden in the armpit crease. It is often combined with treatment of the upper arms or bra-line back rolls for a smoother transition. Care is needed around the nerves and blood vessels in the armpit, so conservative removal is used. Mr Nassab will examine the area to distinguish fat from breast tissue before recommending treatment.
Excision of accessory breast tissue
Accessory breast tissue is denser than fat and often does not respond fully to liposuction alone. Surgical excision removes the tissue through an incision in the armpit, sometimes combined with liposuction to blend the contour. The scar usually lies in a natural crease, but it is longer than a liposuction incision. The tissue removed may be sent for examination. Where loose skin is the main issue, an arm lift extending towards the armpit may be discussed.
Recovery and cost
After armpit liposuction, a compression garment is worn for several weeks and arm movement is gently restricted at first, with most people returning to desk work within a week. Excision may involve a slightly longer recovery. Risks include bruising, seroma, numbness, asymmetry and scarring. Liposuction costs from £7,500 for one area; excision of accessory breast tissue is quoted at consultation. The £150 consultation is separate. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is armpit fat normal?
Yes. A small pad of fat near the armpit is very common and often inherited. It is usually a cosmetic concern rather than a medical one.
How can you tell fat from breast tissue?
Accessory breast tissue often feels firmer and may swell or become tender with periods or pregnancy. An examination, and sometimes an ultrasound, can tell them apart.
Can exercise get rid of armpit fat?
Exercise improves tone and posture and helps overall fat loss, but it cannot target this area specifically.
Does a bra cause armpit fat?
A bra does not create fat, but a poorly fitted one can push soft tissue into a more noticeable bulge.
