Serving Northern Michigan
Clothes that reveal too much of the underarm area may remain in the closet when women discover a curve in this area. Armpit fat causes self-confidence and comfort issues for many women. The pockets of fat can make the shoulders look broader and prevent people from getting a correct fit on bras or bathing suit tops.
People with an armpit bulge may feel they are the only ones with the concern. The belief of being the only sufferer could arise because of the tendency of people to hide the problem. Here is what you should know about armpit fat bulges, and how to get them under control.
Problems People Experience
Bras or other snugly worn clothing may not fit correctly when people have excessive armpit fat. The lump of flesh can hang over the sides of the bra strap, and sleeveless tops or short sleeves may become caught in the creases above or below the pocket of fat. The result could make clothing look less flattering, but it can also become uncomfortable.
Additionally, skin tags may grow more easily in the armpits when there is extra fat because they often appear where skin contacts other skin. The constant contact due to the extra bulge can increase the friction that allows the tags to grow easily. People already often feel self-conscious about the bulges and can feel even less confident if skin tags begin.
How It Develops
Some underarm lumps begin when people gain weight, but excess weight distribution happens differently on everybody. Some women collect excess inches on their thighs, some on their waists, and others under their arms. An effective diet and exercise program can reduce some of the accumulated fat, but it may not necessarily help with all unwanted curves.
An underarm bulge may not even occur because of fat but excess breast tissue. Some underarm lumps consist of this tissue that may exist in the area from birth or expand during puberty or pregnancy. Weight loss may help a little with reducing the size of the armpit bump, but this may not remove the bulges entirely.
Reduce the Look
Women who are pre-disposed to the development of fat in the armpit area cannot usually eliminate the problem alone. However, they can often reduce the severity of the issue. The amount of improvement will depend on many factors including the amount of fat present, the overall fitness of the individual, and if the bulges are due to fat or breast tissue.
Some at-home solutions can help to reduce armpit bulges. For example, exercises that target the muscles under the arms and chest can help to tighten the area, so the bumps look smaller. And wider straps on bras may cover the fat pocket and hold it in so it is less noticeable.
Remove the Problem
Many women will only have the results they want if they get liposuction. Liposuction can remove extra breast tissues as well as excess fat. The targeted cosmetic treatment addresses the area of concern only and removes the fat instantly, so the appearance improves immediately once any swelling subsides.
Recovery times can vary, but small treatment areas are usually outpatient services and the patient can return to their normal schedule quickly. Patients must stay in contact with the surgeon and return for checkups to make certain the area heals correctly.
Small armpit bulges may not concern some people, but for many others, it can cause distress. People unhappy with their shape should talk to a cosmetic surgeon. At Ronald C. Barry, MD , we urge you to take advantage of the opportunities available to help you look and feel your best. Contact us today.
Ronald C. Barry MD, FACS
Petoskey Surgeons, PC
Address: 521 Monroe St, Petoskey, MI 49770
Phone: 231-487-1900
Fax: 231-348-0984
Office Hours
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
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