CoolSculpting accessory breast treatment, a method to improve underarm fat without incisions

Hello, this is Dr. Woo Eun-kyung from Jongno Le Miel Plastic Surgery.

If you have hesitated to wear sleeveless tops or swimsuits because of the bulges of fat around your armpits whenever you choose clothes, I fully understand how you feel.

You must have been frustrated because no matter how much you dieted or exercised consistently, that particular area showed no change.

⚠️ Actually, this concern may not be simply due to excess fat. This is because the cause of accessory breasts differs fundamentally from that of ordinary fat, making it difficult to resolve through lifestyle changes alone.

Today, I will provide an easy-to-understand introduction to the reasons why accessory breasts develop and the CoolSculpting procedure, which is accessible without incisions, focusing on practical information.

What is an accessory breast?

Accessory breasts refer to residual breast tissue remaining in or around the armpit in addition to normal breast tissue. Medically, it is called 'polymastia,' and it often occurs when the mammary ridge does not completely degenerate during fetal development.

Underarm accessory breasts may appear to protrude when the arms are lowered or look like flesh is being pushed out beyond the bra line, and may be accompanied by skin sagging and pigmentation.

Key characteristics of accessory breasts

📌 Occurs in various locations such as the armpits, sides of the chest, abdomen, and groin

📌 Size may change during the menstrual cycle or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

📌 May cause pain or discomfort

📌 Occurs rarely in men as well as women

Why do accessory breasts develop?

The causes of accessory breasts are broadly divided Innate factors class Acquired factors It is divided into.

Innate factors

Incomplete degeneration of the mammary ridge during the fetal stage

genetic predisposition

Residual hormone-sensitive tissue

Acquired factors

Weight gain and body fat accumulation

Hormonal changes after pregnancy and childbirth

Incorrect posture and underwear wearing habits

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is FDA-approved Cryolipolysis It is a technology that utilizes the principle that fat cells selectively die at low temperatures of -5 to 5°C, without affecting surrounding skin, muscle, or nerve tissues.

Over the course of about 2 to 3 months after the procedure, the dead fat cells are naturally expelled through the lymphatic system, and the volume of the treated area gradually decreases.

Key Benefits of CoolSculpting

✔ No scars due to non-surgical and non-incisional procedure

✔ Procedure takes 35–60 minutes, allowing for immediate return to daily activities.

✔ Once dead, fat cells do not regenerate

✔ Can be applied to small areas such as armpits, flanks, and thighs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Do I have to have surgery if I have accessory breasts?

That is not necessarily the case. Fatty accessory breasts can be improved through non-surgical methods such as CoolSculpting. However, if mammary gland tissue is involved, it is recommended to consult a specialist to determine whether surgery is necessary.

Q. When do the effects of CoolSculpting start to appear?

Changes begin to be felt 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure, and the final results can be confirmed approximately 2 to 3 months later. This may vary depending on individual metabolic rate.

Q. Is CoolSculpting possible for underarm accessory breasts?

Yes, it is possible. Using an underarm-specific applicator allows for effective treatment even in narrow areas. However, a preliminary evaluation is required as the effectiveness may vary depending on the proportion of mammary gland tissue within the accessory breast.

Q. Are there any precautions after the procedure?

Temporary redness, swelling, and decreased sensation may occur immediately after the procedure, but most recover within a few days. Adequate hydration and light aerobic exercise after the procedure help with fat elimination.

In conclusion

Underarm accessory breasts are a concern for many people, yet it is difficult to readily visit a hospital for treatment. However, significant improvement is possible with accurate identification of the cause and the selection of the appropriate procedure.

CoolSculpting is a non-surgical option that is particularly effective for fatty accessory breasts, and it is preferred by many due to its quick return to daily life. We recommend that you make a decision after consulting thoroughly with a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

Le Miel Plastic Surgery Clinic

Director Woo Eun-kyung

plastic surgeon

Consultant for Plastic Surgery at Hallym University Medical Center

Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (KPRAS)

Full member of the International Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (IPRAS)

Regular member of the Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Regular member of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons

Regular member of the Korean Society of Craniofacial Plastic Surgery

Regular member of the Korean Society of Burn Medicine

Former Director of Ruby Plastic Surgery Clinic

Former Director of Irene Plastic Surgery Clinic

Completed residency in Plastic Surgery at Hallym University Medical Center

Visiting Professor, Department of Plastic Surgery, Hallym University Medical Center

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