Accessory Axillary Breast Management: Is Primary Skin Excision Necessary?

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Axillary breasts, accessory breast tissue in the armpit, affect 2-6% of women and 1-3% of men.
• Incidence varies ethnically, being higher in Asian populations, particularly Japanese.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a modified surgical technique for axillary breast management that minimizes scarring.
• To compare outcomes of the modified technique against traditional methods involving primary skin excision.

Main Methods:

• A modified surgical protocol for axillary breast removal was employed, omitting primary skin excision.
• Liposuction of axillary breast tissue combined with gland and skin excision was performed, with secondary skin management for excess.

Main Results:

• The modified technique achieved excellent aesthetic results with minimal scarring.
• Avoidance of primary skin excision prevented long, widening scars, contractures, and restricted arm movement.

Conclusions:

• A modified surgical approach, avoiding primary skin excision for axillary breasts, offers superior cosmetic outcomes and functional results.
• Secondary management of skin excess is recommended over primary excision to prevent adverse scarring and movement limitations.