Axillary Breast (Accessory Breast) Removal in Bangalore

Medically reviewed by Dr Sreekar Harinatha, MCh (Plastic Surgery)

An axillary breast is extra breast tissue in the armpit, which shows as a bulge near the bra line. Many women mistake it for fat, but it doesn't go away with exercise. At Contura Clinic, Bangalore, Dr Sreekar Harinatha removes it in 30–45 minutes as a day-care procedure, through a cut hidden in the hair-bearing part of the armpit. Most women return to work in 2 days.

Axillary breast removal at a glance

What is an axillary breast?

An axillary (accessory) breast is breast tissue that extends into the armpit. Doctors also call it the axillary tail of Spence. It looks like a soft bulge in front of the armpit, often pushed out by the bra strap. Because it is breast tissue, not just fat, workouts and diet don't reduce it.

Why have it removed?

• It can cause pain and limit arm movement.
• It can grow larger over time.
• It often becomes painful and tender during pregnancy.
• It can develop the same conditions as normal breast tissue, including breast cancer.
• It can make sleeveless or fitted clothes uncomfortable.

A consultation with a plastic surgeon confirms whether the bulge is breast tissue or fat.

How is it removed?

1. You receive local anaesthesia or a short general anaesthetic.
2. A small cut is made in the hair-bearing part of the armpit, where it will be hidden.
3. The extra breast tissue is removed.
4. Arm liposuction can be added for a smoother contour.

Frequently asked questions

Is armpit fat the same as an axillary breast?

Not always. Armpit fat is ordinary fat. An axillary breast is breast tissue, which often swells or aches around periods or in pregnancy. A plastic surgeon can tell them apart at a consultation.

Will removing an axillary breast leave a scar?

The scar is placed in the hair-bearing part of the armpit, so it is well hidden.

How long is the recovery?

Most women go home the same day and return to work in about 2 days.

Can liposuction alone remove an axillary breast?

Liposuction removes fat, but the breast tissue usually needs to be cut out. Liposuction can be added to smooth the area.

Related pages: Arm liposuction · Arm lift · Breast reduction

About the doctor

Dr Sreekar Harinatha, MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic Surgery, CMC Vellore), DNB (Plastic Surgery). Karnataka Medical Council Reg. No. 68989. Plastic and cosmetic surgeon at Contura Clinic, Kalyan Nagar. Best Paper Award at the IMCAS conference, Taipei, 2016, for his gynecomastia technique. Author of The Male Breast and over 40 papers in indexed journals. Member of IAAPS, IMA and the European College of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery.

This page is for general information and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person. Every procedure carries risks, which your surgeon will explain at your consultation.