If you’re self-conscious about excess fat in your armpits, you might have heard about armpit lipo, also known as axillary liposuction. This cosmetic procedure removes extra fat from the armpit area to contour the upper arms and improve the overall appearance of your underarms.
It’s important to know that armpit lipo is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss solution. If you are considering it, this article will cover the procedure itself, the benefits, the risks involved, what recovery looks like, and the cost you can expect.
What is Underarm Liposuction?
Underarm liposuction, also called axillary lipo or armpit fat reduction, is a surgical procedure that removes extra fat from your armpits to reshape your upper arms.
Keep in mind that this isn’t a weight-loss procedure. It’s a body-contouring fix best suited for people who are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet or exercise.
What causes armpit fat?
Sometimes, armpit fat is a result of genetics or general body composition. It’s just where your body stores fat.
In other cases, that bulge in your armpit may be caused by ectopic breast tissue, which is breast tissue that grows outside of the breast area.
How Underarm Liposuction is Performed
If you and your doctor decide that liposuction is the right choice for you, here’s what you can expect.
Techniques Used
Several different techniques are used to remove fat from the underarm area.
- Tumescent liposuction: This technique involves injecting a saline solution containing lidocaine (a local anesthetic) and epinephrine (which constricts blood vessels) into the area to be treated. This helps to numb the area, reduce bleeding, and make it easier to remove the fat.
- Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL): UAL uses ultrasound energy to liquefy the fat before it is removed. This can make the procedure easier and less traumatic to the surrounding tissues.
- Excision: If there is a significant amount of excess skin in the underarm area, your surgeon may recommend combining liposuction with excision to remove the extra skin.
The Procedure Steps
Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during the procedure:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is often used to numb the area, but general anesthesia may be an option, depending on the extent of the procedure and your comfort level.
- Incisions and Cannula Insertion: Small incisions are made in the underarm area to allow for the insertion of a cannula, a thin tube used to remove the fat.
- Fat Removal: The cannula is used to break down and remove the fat from the targeted area.
- Closing Incisions: Once the desired amount of fat has been removed, the incisions are closed with sutures.
Addressing Hyperhidrosis
In some cases, underarm liposuction can also help reduce excessive sweating, a condition known as hyperhidrosis. By removing some of the sweat glands in the area, the procedure can help to alleviate this bothersome symptom.
What are the benefits of armpit liposuction?
People who have armpit liposuction report several benefits:
- Better appearance. Many people simply dislike the look of excess fat or tissue in their armpit area.
- Less discomfort. Excess tissue can lead to chafing and irritation, especially during exercise.
- Reduced body odor. Some research suggests that armpit liposuction can reduce body odor, even as a primary treatment.
- Improved confidence. When people feel better about their appearance, their self-esteem often increases.
If you’re considering armpit liposuction, talk with your doctor about your goals and expectations.
What to Expect: Consultation, Preparation, and the Procedure Day
If you’re considering armpit liposuction, here’s what you can expect as you move through the process.
The Consultation
The first step is a consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon. This is where you’ll be evaluated, discuss your goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Preparing for the Procedure
You’ll be given instructions to follow in the weeks leading up to your procedure. These may include:
- Stop smoking or using nicotine products.
- Adjust or temporarily discontinue certain medications.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
On the Day of the Procedure
On the day of your armpit liposuction, you can expect the following:
- The areas to be treated will be marked.
- You’ll be given anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
- Tumescent fluid, a solution containing saline, local anesthetic, and epinephrine, will be injected into the treatment area. This helps to numb the area, constrict blood vessels, and break down fat cells.
Recovery and Results
So, what can you expect after the procedure?
The Recovery Process
Right after surgery, you’ll need to rest and take it easy. Avoiding heavy lifting is crucial during the initial recovery phase. You’ll also want to attend all your follow-up appointments so your surgeon can keep an eye on your progress.
You’ll likely be asked to wear a compression garment to help minimize swelling and support the area as it heals.
Expected Results
You’ll probably see some change right away, but the final results can take weeks or even months to fully materialize. It’s a process!
The good news is that the results are usually permanent, since the fat cells are actually removed. However, big weight fluctuations can change things, so keeping your weight stable is key.
A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help you maintain your new contours for years to come.
Is armpit lipo right for you?
Armpit liposuction can be a great way to get rid of stubborn fat pockets, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s a quick look at what makes someone a good candidate, along with some safety considerations.
Who’s a good candidate?
Ideal candidates are in good health, at a stable weight, and have reasonable skin elasticity. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.
Staying safe
If you’re considering armpit liposuction, one of the most important things you can do is choose an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, so you want to be in the hands of someone who knows what they’re doing and can minimize those risks.
How much does armpit liposuction cost?
The costs can vary widely depending on your surgeon’s fees, the extent of the procedure, and the facility charges. On average, you can probably expect it to cost somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000.
It’s important to remember that the exact cost will depend on your specific treatment plan, so it’s hard to estimate before you meet with a surgeon.
If you’re concerned about the cost, ask your surgeon about financing options.
To Conclude
Armpit liposuction offers a way to get rid of stubborn fat and improve the look of your upper arms. If you’re self-conscious about armpit fat, it’s worth exploring whether you’re a candidate for this procedure.
However, it’s vital to consult with a qualified, experienced surgeon to find out if liposuction is right for you and what kind of results you can realistically expect. Armpit lipo can sculpt your arms and give you a more streamlined silhouette, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to your long-term satisfaction with the results.