Bra Fat & Back FatCauses and How to Get Rid of Bra Bulge

Medically reviewed: Last reviewed by Mr Reza Nassab, FRCS Plast —

Bra fat is the roll of tissue that bulges above, below or around the band of your bra, at the sides of the chest or across the back. It is a very common concern and often persists even when people are fit and at a healthy weight.

What causes bra fat?

  • Genetics determine where you store fat, and for many women the upper back and sides of the chest are stubborn areas.
  • Hormonal changes, particularly around the menopause, shift fat towards the trunk.
  • Weight changes and pregnancy can leave fat and loose skin.
  • Bra fit: a band that is too tight, or a style that digs in, exaggerates the bulge.

Simple steps that help

A professional bra fitting can make a surprising difference. Strength training for the back and shoulders improves posture and tone, and overall weight loss reduces fat everywhere, though you cannot spot-reduce one area.

Liposuction for bra fat

When bra fat is caused by stubborn fat and the skin is reasonably elastic, liposuction of the upper back, bra line and sides of the chest can smooth the contour. It is often combined with liposuction of the flanks and lower back, or performed as part of 360 liposuction, which treats the whole circumference of the waist.

When skin removal is needed

After major weight loss, loose skin may form rolls across the back. Liposuction alone will not tighten this; an upper body lift or bra-line back lift removes the excess skin, leaving a scar that can often be hidden under the bra strap.

Recovery

After liposuction, a compression garment is worn for several weeks. Most people return to desk work within about a week and resume exercise after four to six weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can exercise get rid of bra fat?

Exercise improves tone and helps overall fat loss, but stubborn bra fat often remains.

Is bra fat liposuction permanent?

Removed fat cells do not return, but remaining fat can grow with weight gain.

Can bra fat be treated with a tummy tuck?

No. A tummy tuck treats the abdomen, but liposuction of the back and bra line can be done at the same operation.

How much does liposuction cost?

Liposuction with Mr Nassab starts from £7,500 for one area. See the liposuction cost guide.

Mr Reza Nassab — Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Written & Medically Reviewed by

Mr Reza Nassab

FRCS (Plast) GMC Specialist Register — Plastic Surgery RCS England Certificate in Cosmetic Surgery MBA MSc

Mr Reza Nassab is an award-winning Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, and holds the Royal College of Surgeons of England Certification in Cosmetic Surgery. He practises at CLNQ Deansgate Hospital in Manchester; Knutsford, Cheshire; Dubai and London, and is a member of BAPRAS and BAAPS. Mr Nassab has published original research in PRS, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, and JPRAS and lectures internationally on advanced surgical techniques.