Axillary Breast Tissue Removal in San Francisco, CA
For some women, excess tissue in the underarm area, known as axillary breast tissue, can be a source of physical discomfort and emotional distress. Whether due to persistent fullness, visible bulging, or loose skin, this condition often prevents patients from feeling confident in sleeveless clothing, swimsuits, or anything that reveals the underarm area.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Ginger Xu of Ethos Plastic Surgery has developed a specialized approach to axillary breast tissue removal that prioritizes effective removal, aesthetic harmony, subtle scarring, and patient well-being. If breast tissue in this area is affecting you, we invite you to reach out to see how Dr. Xu can help.
If you are interested in learning more about axillary breast tissue removal and how it can help you achieve a smoother underarm contour, please contact Ethos Plastic Surgery today at (415) 779-2291 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Xu. We proudly serve patients in San Francisco and the greater Bay Area.
What Is Axillary Breast Tissue?
Axillary breast tissue (sometimes referred to as accessory breast tissue, ectopic breast tissue, mammary heterotopia, or “tail of Spence”) is extra glandular or fatty tissue located in the armpit area. While it can be present from birth, it often becomes more noticeable with hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
What Causes Axillary Breast Tissue?
This tissue develops as a remnant of the embryologic mammary ridge, also known as the “milk line.” During fetal development, this line extends from the chest down to the groin on both sides of the body. While it typically regresses everywhere except the chest, in some individuals, small segments of tissue remain, especially in the underarm area.
These remnants can behave like breast tissue, enlarging or becoming tender in response to hormone fluctuations. Over time or during hormonal life phases (such as menstruation, pregnancy, or breastfeeding), this tissue may become more prominent, painful, or cosmetically bothersome.
Many patients experience:
- Visible bulges or fullness in the armpit area
- Soreness or tenderness, especially around menstrual cycles
- Difficulty finding comfortable, flattering clothing
- Self-consciousness in sleeveless outfits or swimwear
In some cases, the issue is glandular tissue, while in others it’s fat, loose skin, or a combination. Each presentation requires a tailored surgical approach.
Meet Dr. Ginger Xu
Dr. Xu embraces the responsibility and transformative opportunity to alter a patient’s appearance in a way that is congruent with their own values and matches a more cohesive sense of self; to realign the external with the internal; to create an improved emotional landscape and a better life. These ideals captivate and inspire her every day.
What Happens During Axillary Breast Tissue Removal?
Dr. Xu customizes each surgical plan based on the type of tissue present. If glandular tissue is the concern, excision provides effective relief. If fat is the primary issue, liposuction may be performed for refined contouring. In cases of skin laxity, excess skin may be removed or tightened.
Incisions are placed thoughtfully, often in natural creases, to allow for subtle, well-healed scars. The procedure is typically performed under anesthesia on an outpatient basis, so most patients return home the same day.
Dr. Ginger Xu’s Expertise in Axillary Contouring
Although axillary breast tissue removal is not widely talked about, it’s a procedure that Dr. Xu performs regularly. Over time, she has developed a small but meaningful clinical series and deepened her expertise in treating this area with intention and aesthetic finesse.
Her goal is to restore comfort and confidence while creating a smooth, natural contour that blends seamlessly with the surrounding anatomy. This requires careful decision-making about incision placement, tissue handling, and skin redraping, all of which must balance visibility and access with aesthetic discretion.
The Surgical Approach
Depending on the nature of the tissue, whether glandular, fatty, or skin laxity, the surgical plan may involve:
- Excision of excess tissue
- Skin tightening or skin removal when necessary
- Liposuction for contour refinement
- Discreet incision design, often hidden in natural creases
Every step is approached with a holistic mindset, integrating not just technical precision, but also respect for the emotional weight this condition can carry.
Why Patients Choose an Axillary Breast Fat Reduction Procedure
Most patients seek axillary tissue removal after years of feeling limited or uncomfortable. Common reasons include:
- Embarrassment or self-consciousness when wearing tank tops, sleeveless dresses, or swimwear
- Chronic tenderness or swelling around menstruation or hormonal changes
- Frustration with underarm bulges that don’t improve with diet or exercise
Patients are often relieved to discover that there is a safe, effective solution, and that their concerns are valid and treatable.
Why Choose Dr. Xu for Axillary Breast Tissue Removal?
When considering axillary breast tissue removal, it is important to choose a surgeon who combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of aesthetic harmony. Dr. Ginger Xu, an Ivy League–trained and board-certified plastic surgeon, stands out for her ability to blend precision with compassion. She takes the time to listen closely to each patient’s concerns and goals to ensure that every treatment plan feels both personal and empowering.
Dr. Xu has developed meaningful experience with axillary contouring and has refined her techniques to prioritize safety, comfort, and subtle, natural-looking results. Her thoughtful approach to incision placement and tissue refinement allows her to create smooth, balanced contours while minimizing visible scarring.
Her qualifications are further distinguished by her completion of the prestigious Harvard Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Fellowship, which is an honor awarded to only one surgeon each year. Trusting Dr. Xu with your care means placing yourself in the hands of a surgeon who values technical excellence but also your comfort, confidence, and overall well-being.
If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Xu and discover how axillary breast tissue removal can help you feel more confident, comfortable, and at ease in your own skin.
Can It Be Combined with Other Breast Procedures?
Yes. Many women choose to address axillary fullness at the same time as breast procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift/breast reduction, or breast fat transfer for a more comprehensive result. Dr. Xu will discuss all available options during your consultation.
Final Results: Confidence in Every Detail
Successful axillary contouring is about more than just removing tissue; it’s about achieving a smooth, balanced, and natural appearance with minimal visible scarring. The subtlety of this work is where my aesthetic approach makes a real difference.
With thoughtful planning and precise execution, most patients enjoy:
- A flatter, smoother underarm contour
- Discreet, well-healed incisions
- Renewed confidence in their appearance
Is This Procedure Right for You?
If you’ve been living with underarm fullness, skin laxity, or discomfort from axillary breast tissue, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Together, we can assess your anatomy, understand your goals, and create a personalized plan that supports both your physical and emotional well-being.
Partner With Dr. Ginger Xu, a Leading Female Plastic Surgeon in San Francisco
Dr. Xu firmly believes in plastic surgery as a means of self-love, body positivity, and the enhancement of natural beauty. She can relate to the reasoning behind wanting to undergo a cosmetic procedure and will provide guidance to help you achieve your desired results in the most natural and holistic way.
“As a woman, I understand what it’s like to navigate this while also trying to stay true to what you want for your own body, on your own terms, regardless of what other people think, or how it fits into norms or not. Ultimately, doing what’s right for you is the greatest act of self-care.” – Dr. Ginger Xu.
If you would like to learn more about axillary breast tissue removal in San Francisco, we invite you to schedule your consultation with Dr. Xu today. Call (415) 779-2291 or fill out our contact form to get started. We look forward to meeting you soon.
FAQs
San Francisco Axillary Tissue Removal
Yes. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, axillary breast tissue removal is a safe and effective procedure. Dr. Xu takes every precaution to minimize risks, using techniques that prioritize both safety and natural-looking results.
Yes. Axillary breast tissue can be surgically removed or reduced with liposuction, depending on whether it is glandular tissue, fat, or a combination of both. Dr. Xu tailors her approach to your anatomy for the best outcome.
Most patients return to light activities within a few days. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 to 4 weeks. Swelling and mild tenderness are common in the early stages but typically resolve as healing progresses.
Unfortunately, no. Because axillary breast tissue often contains true glandular tissue in addition to fat, it does not go away with diet or exercise. Surgery is usually the only reliable solution.
Non-surgical fat-reduction treatments may improve mild fatty fullness but cannot remove glandular tissue or address loose skin. For most patients with true axillary breast tissue, surgery is the most effective and lasting option.
Most patients describe the procedure as very tolerable, with only mild soreness afterward. Discomfort is usually well controlled with oral pain medication, and most women return to work or their daily routines within a few days.
It is more common than many people realize. Studies estimate that 2–6% of women have noticeable axillary breast tissue. For those affected, the condition can cause both cosmetic concerns and physical discomfort.
The cost of axillary breast tissue removal can vary depending on the complexity of your procedure, whether liposuction or excision is required, and if it is combined with other treatments. During your consultation, Dr. Xu will provide a personalized surgical plan and a detailed cost estimate. At Ethos Plastic Surgery, we believe in transparent pricing and individualized care so you can make confident, informed decisions.