A botched Hi-Def Liposuction can impact the patient's well-being & mental health. Here are the common complications to look out for & what to do about it.
December 10, 2024
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When it comes to dressing up, everyone wants to look and feel their best; there might be some areas on our bodies we might not be as comfortable with. Take, for example, armpit fat or accessory breast tissues, which might affect your self-confidence – especially when wearing sleeveless tops.
Armpit fat and accessory breast gland – what are they?
Armpit fat, prevalent in women, can be caused by various factors such as genetics, fat distribution, and hormonal changes. While many associate it with weight gain, people of all sizes, including those at a healthy weight, can struggle with stubborn fat in this area. Diet and exercise are often not enough to address it.
In some cases, what appears to be armpit fat could be axillary accessory breast tissue, a condition called polymastia. During fetal development, breast tissue forms along the "milk line, " extending" from the armpits to the groin. Typically, this tissue consolidates into the chest area, but in rare cases, extra breast tissue forms in other regions, such as the armpit. This extra tissue can create a noticeable bulge, often mistaken for fat, and may become swollen or painful during hormonal changes like pregnancy or menstruation.
Why armpit fat and accessory breast glands don’t respond to non-surgical fat removal
Fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis, is a popular non-invasive treatment in Singapore for reducing stubborn fat, including armpit fat. However, results may vary, and achieving noticeable results may often take multiple sessions.
Fat freezing, which may typically cost from $500 onwards per body area, works by freezing fat cells, causing them to die and be naturally eliminated from the body.
A rare but significant side effect is paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), where the treated fat cells enlarge instead of shrinking. For individuals experiencing PAH, corrective liposuction may be necessary.
If you're considering fat freezing for armpit fat, it's essential to understand the possible risks and manage expectations, as results can take time and may not be guaranteed.
Fat freezing (cryolipolysis) doesn't work on accessory breast tissue. That's because this tissue is predominantly glandular tissue, not fat. To successfully treat this issue, surgery is usually the best option.
The solution to armpit fat and accessory breast gland removal
According to an article in the American Journal of Roentgenology, liposuction is one of the most effective treatments for removing stubborn armpit fat.
At Amaris B. Clinic, Dr Ivan Puah offers a proprietary surgical technique known as the MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique, designed to target and remove fat from difficult areas like the underarms.
MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique is more than just fat removal — it's a body sculpting technique that:
- Removes stubborn fat while maintaining a natural, smooth contour.
- Promotes skin tightening for a firmer appearance.
- Leaves minimal scarring thanks to strategically placed incisions.
- Faster recovery compared to traditional liposuction methods.
Accessory breast glands, often found in the armpit area, cannot be addressed through liposuction or non-surgical methods. The most effective solution for patients with axillary accessory breast tissue is axillary accessory gland excision. This surgical procedure removes the excess tissue and relieves the patients from physical discomfort. This approach improves the underarm area's appearance and enhances the patient's overall comfort and confidence.
Armpit Fat Surgery Price and Insurance Coverage
When considering armpit fat surgery or liposuction, it's essential to understand the costs involved. The price can vary widely based on several factors:
Liposuction Doctor's Expertise
The experience and skill level of the lipo doctor can significantly impact the cost.
Type of Anesthesia
Whether the procedure uses local or general anaesthesia can also affect the overall cost. Local anaesthesia typically costs less than general.
Surgical Method
The technique employed plays a role as well. For example, procedures like Vaser liposuction, Laser liposuction or MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique may vary in complexity and, subsequently, in cost.
Individual Patient Factors
Your specific clinical condition matters. Factors such as the amount of fat to be removed and the extent of skin laxity can influence the complexity of the procedure.
Facility Costs
Whether the procedure is carried out in a hospital or Day Surgery Center.
It's important to note that insurance plans typically do not cover armpit fat surgery (liposuction) since it's classified as a cosmetic procedure. Most insurance companies will consider this as an elective surgery.
Scheduling a consultation with a qualified liposuction doctor is crucial to get a clearer picture of the potential costs. During this initial meeting, the doctor will assess your situation, discuss the various surgical options, and provide a detailed breakdown of costs. This is also an opportunity to address concerns about the procedure, recovery, and expected outcomes.
About Dr Ivan Puah and Amaris B. Clinic
Dr Ivan Puah is an accredited liposuction doctor with over 20 years of experience and is the Chairman of the Lipo Peer Review Committee in Singapore.
His journey in aesthetic and cosmetic medicine has taken him across the globe. He completed his Vaser Liposuction Fundamental and Advanced Body Sculpting training in the United States and South America, gaining insights from top lipo trainers in the field. He is also trained in laser lipolysis in Italy, further expanding his skill set. His dedication to the craft includes training in gynecomastia surgeries conducted in the United States, where he learned innovative techniques to enhance patient outcomes.
Dr Puah's meticulous and personalised approach to patient care sets him apart. He understands that each individual has unique needs and concerns, and he takes the time to tailor his recommendations accordingly.
Whether you are considering liposuction, Vaser Liposuction in Singapore, or other body sculpting procedures, you can trust that Dr Puah will provide thoughtful guidance to help you achieve your aesthetic goals without compromising your well-being.
