Can Liposuction Give Me A More Toned Looking Upper Arm?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I would like a more toned looking armpit, upper back, and upper arm. I feel that, although I am relatively lean and well proportioned throughout the rest of my body, where my arms attaches to my shoulder and chest is just too thick. I have attached some pictures so you can see what I mean. There is also a glob of fat in my upper breast next to the arm that sticks out in clothes. 

A:What you have is a very common problem, known as axillary breast fat. When combined with some circumferential fat around the upper arm and back, it makes the whole area look undesireably thick and full. Liposuction (technically liposculpture given the small volumes and discrete areas) of the axillary breast (upper lateral breast quadrant) and front and back of arms (extending into the upper back) would be a good approach to help contour this area and create a more sculpted look of the upper arm/chest area. That could be performed as an outpatient procedure done under anesthesia to get the best result in the most efficient time period. While there would be some swelling and maybe mild bruising, it would not be much of a prolonged recovery. It could be done late in the week, for example, and you could be back to work by Monday or Tuesday. (albeit with sore upper arms) Be aware that the final result from such a procedure would take a minimum of six weeks to become fully evident.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana