Accessory Breast (Axillary) Removal in Mumbai
Tuberous Breast Correction
More Common Than You Think and Easier to Treat Than You'd Expect
Accessory breast tissue also called polymastia or axillary breast is the presence of extra breast tissue beyond the normal breast, most commonly in the armpit (axilla). It is a developmental remnant of the embryonic ‘milk line’ that extends from the armpit to the groin. In some women, this tissue is barely noticeable. In others, it produces a visible fullness or bulge under the arm, often worse in sleeveless tops, during pregnancy, before menstruation, or after weight gain. For many women in Mumbai’s humid climate, accessory breast tissue causes constant self-consciousness about clothing choices, repeated rashes, and discomfort.
Despite being a common condition (affecting approximately 2–6% of women), accessory breast tissue is rarely discussed openly. Dr. Rachana Tataria offers discreet, definitive surgical removal of accessory breast tissue in Mumbai at Fortis Hospital, Mulund. With FRCS Plastic Surgery (UK) and an oncoplastic breast surgery fellowship, she brings precise surgical technique and an appreciation that this is often a long-standing personal concern that finally has a simple, durable solution.
Symptoms of Accessory Breast Tissue
Visible fullness, swelling, or bulge under the arm, especially in sleeveless clothing or swimwear.
Cyclical tenderness or pain, particularly before menstruation or during pregnancy.
Increased size during pregnancy and breastfeeding, sometimes with milk leakage.
Recurrent skin irritation, sweat-related rashes, or fungal infection in the axilla.
Self-consciousness about wearing fitted tops, blouses, sarees, or swimwear.
In some cases, a visible accessory nipple.
Surgical Treatment Options
The right surgical approach depends on the composition of the accessory tissue (mostly fat, mostly glandular, or mixed) and its size:
Liposuction Only
For predominantly fatty axillary tissue with no significant gland component. Small puncture incisions, minimal scarring, quick recovery.
Combined Liposuction and Excision
The most common approach for mixed accessory breasts. Liposuction reshapes the fatty component, and excision removes any glandular tissue. Scars are kept as small as possible in the natural armpit crease.
Surgical Excision Only
For predominantly glandular accessory breasts (firm, well-defined, often cyclically tender). Requires a small horizontal incision hidden in the natural skin crease of the armpit.
Excision With Accessory Nipple Removal
Excision With Accessory Nipple Removal when an accessory nipple is also present.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Women with persistent, bothersome accessory breast tissue.
Patients with cyclical pain, irritation, or rash issues.
Women considering pregnancy who want correction before further enlargement of the accessory tissue.
Non-smoker, or willing to stop smoking before surgery.
Stable body weight.
Realistic expectations about scarring (small, hidden in the armpit crease).
The Procedure
Accessory breast removal is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Surgical markings are completed with the patient sitting before the procedure begins.
Small punctures or a short incision are made within the natural crease of the armpit area.
Liposuction removes fatty tissue while glandular tissue is excised through the same access point.
Closure is completed with absorbable sutures, and most patients return home the same day.
Why Choose Dr. Rachana Tataria for Accessory Breast Removal in Mumbai
01
Female plastic surgeon discretion and comfort for what is often an unspoken concern.
02
Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, JCI-accredited hospital with full surgical safety standards.
03
Precise scar placement in the natural armpit crease most patients find scars almost invisible after healing.
04
Multilingual consultation in English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Kutchi, Kannada, and French.
The Recovery Journey
Straightforward Recovery Process
Recovery after accessory breast removal is generally smooth and comfortable for most patients.
Compression Support During Healing
Compression garments are generally worn for 3–4 weeks to support healing and contour results.
Temporary Movement and Driving Restrictions
Arm movements and driving are usually restricted during the first week to support proper healing.
Gradual Return to Physical Activity
Light exercise resumes after 2 weeks, while full gym activities begin within 4–6 weeks.
FAQs : Accessory Breast Removal in Mumbai
Accessory breast tissue is generally benign. Like normal breast tissue, however, it can develop the same conditions including cysts, fibroadenomas, and very rarely cancer. Surgical removal eliminates these long-term considerations.
Scars are placed within the natural horizontal crease of the armpit and are usually almost invisible after maturation. Most patients can wear sleeveless clothing freely after healing.
Yes. Bilateral accessory breast removal is common and is performed in the same operation.
Once removed surgically, accessory breast tissue does not regrow. Any small amount of residual tissue that was left intentionally may slightly enlarge during pregnancy, but this is uncommon if removal is complete.
Yes. Many patients prefer to address accessory breast tissue before pregnancy because pregnancy typically enlarges it significantly. Surgery is safe before, between, or after pregnancies.
Coverage varies. When accessory breast tissue causes significant symptoms (pain, recurrent infection, cyclical enlargement with discomfort), insurance may cover the surgery with appropriate documentation. Purely cosmetic cases are generally not covered.
Initial improvement is visible immediately after swelling settles in 2–3 weeks. Final result is seen by 2–3 months as the skin retracts and scars mature.
Get in Touch with Dr. Rachana Tataria
Whether you’re ready to take the next step or have questions about Accessory Breast Removal, we are here to guide you.
Begin your journey toward transformation.