1. Understanding Axillary Breast Tissue
Axillary breast tissue, also known as accessory breast tissue, is a common yet often overlooked condition. It occurs when breast tissue develops outside the normal breast area, typically in the armpit region. This can lead to various problems, both physical and psychological. For many individuals, it causes discomfort, especially during physical activities or when wearing certain types of clothing. It can also become a source of self - consciousness, making people hesitant to wear sleeveless shirts or revealing clothing.
The reasons for the formation of axillary breast tissue can vary from person to person. The most common causes include weight gain and hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy. Additionally, there may be a possible congenital link, as indicated by some studies on liposuction, which suggests that certain people are predisposed to developing this condition.
2. Importance of Seeking Professional Help
When dealing with axillary breast tissue, seeking professional help from a reputable hospital or surgeon is crucial. These professionals have the expertise and experience to accurately diagnose the condition and recommend the most suitable treatment options. Improper treatment can lead to complications such as infection, scarring, or incomplete removal of the tissue. Professional surgeons can also provide personalized care based on the patient's unique circumstances, ensuring the best possible outcome.
3. Popular Hospitals in New York City for Axillary Breast Tissue Treatment
3.1 Preminger Plastic Surgery
Dr. B. Aviva Preminger at Preminger Plastic Surgery is well - known for her work in treating axillary breast tissue. She offers a variety of procedures to address this condition.
3.1.1 Treatment Options
- Liposuction: This is a common method where a cannula is used to remove the tissue through a very small incision. It can be an effective way to target the fatty component of the axillary breast tissue.
- Coolsculpting: The least invasive option, it involves freezing the tissue. The dead cells are then flushed out by the body as part of its natural processes.
- Surgery: In cases where there is excess skin along with the tissue, plastic surgery is performed. If the removal involves the nipple or areola, these are excised after any liposuction is done.
3.1.2 Procedure Details
The procedure usually begins with a one - on - one consultation with Dr. Preminger. During this consultation, she will review the patient's medical history and determine if they are at risk for complications. She will also answer any questions the patient may have regarding the procedure, recovery, or payment options.
The actual axillary breast tissue removal using modern techniques is minimally invasive. A minimal incision is made, and the tumescent liposuction technique is used to aspirate the breast and fat tissue. If there are nipples or areolas present, they are excised after the liposuction. Extra skin is removed using a small fusiform incision.
3.1.3 Recovery and Results
Recovery time at Preminger Plastic Surgery is relatively reasonable. Patients can usually return to work in about three weeks, though it's advisable to take it easy for the first week. Strenuous activity can be resumed after four to six weeks. Swelling typically resolves in about two weeks. A 2009 study of 51 patients published in the Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported high satisfaction rates, with most patients being happy with their appearance after the initial surgery.
3.2 Practice of Dr. Casian Monaco
Located in the prestigious upper east side of New York City, the practice of Dr. Casian Monaco offers advanced and compassionate care for those seeking relief from axillary breast tissue.
3.2.1 Expertise of Dr. Casian Monaco
Dr. Casian Monaco brings a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to each axillary breast tissue removal procedure. His expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care and results that are tailored to their unique body shape and aesthetic goals.
3.2.2 Procedure and Techniques
The procedure for removing axillary breast tissue at his practice is typically performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Monaco may use various liposuction techniques, and in some cases, direct excision may be required. The process involves carefully removing the unwanted tissue while preserving the surrounding areas and maintaining a natural look.
3.2.3 Post - Procedure Benefits
After the procedure, patients often report a significant improvement in both comfort and self - confidence. Removing the excess tissue not only alleviates physical discomfort but also enhances the contour of the underarm area, allowing patients to engage in activities and wear clothing that they may have previously avoided.
3.3 Mount Sinai West
Mount Sinai West has a comprehensive breast care team that can handle various breast - related conditions, including those related to axillary breast tissue.
3.3.1 Breast Care Services
They offer a wide range of breast care services, such as consultation, annual screenings, genetic testing, and a high - risk breast surveillance program for women with an elevated risk of breast cancer. In terms of surgery, they provide both inpatient and outpatient procedures.
3.3.2 Surgical Options
The surgical options include minimally invasive breast surgery techniques, sentinel node biopsy and axillary node dissections, breast conservation surgery (lumpectomy), excisional biopsy, mastectomy (including nipple - sparing and skin - sparing techniques), oncoplastic reconstruction, and reconstruction surgery (including microvascular reconstruction and implant reconstruction).
3.3.3 Diagnostic Services
Their breast team also works closely with the on - site radiology service to provide state - of - the - art diagnostic breast imaging and biopsy services, such as 3D mammograms, breast ultrasound with cyst aspiration, breast MRI, stereotactic mammography biopsy, ultrasound - guided core biopsy, MRI - guided core biopsy, and seed/reflector and wire - directed/wireless localization procedures.
3.4 Montefiore Medical Center
The Department of Surgery at Montefiore Medical Center has a strong focus on breast surgery, especially in dealing with breast cancer and related conditions that may involve axillary breast tissue.
3.4.1 Multidisciplinary Team
The multidisciplinary team at the Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (ME CCC) consists of medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, social workers, geneticists, pathologists, radiologists, patient navigators, psychologists, and a specialist in lymphedema. This team approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and personalized care.
3.4.2 Surgical Approaches
For breast cancer patients, they offer a variety of surgical approaches, including lumpectomy (breast - conserving surgery), mastectomy (in different forms such as skin - sparing and nipple - sparing mastectomy), modified radical mastectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and axillary lymph node dissection. They also provide reconstructive surgery options such as oncoplastic surgery and post - mastectomy breast reconstruction (using autologous tissue or tissue expanders and implants).
3.5 NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital
Surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital are skilled in oncologic breast surgery.
3.5.1 Surgical Techniques
They offer advanced surgical techniques for breast surgery, including sentinel lymph node biopsy, partial mastectomy, and mastectomy. They strive to achieve optimal cosmetic results without compromising the excellence of the cancer surgery. This is done in close coordination with their reconstructive surgeons through breast conservation surgery, nipple - sparing mastectomy, or skin - sparing mastectomy.
3.5.2 Other Services
They also provide consultative second - opinion services, and all their physicians are on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College, ensuring a high level of medical expertise.
3.6 Athēnix Advanced Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Centers
Athēnix offers a specific treatment for axillary tissue called the axilla lift.
3.6.1 What is an Axilla Lift?
It is a surgical technique designed to tighten and reshape the skin on the underarms. It is popular for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, breastfeeding, or sagging skin due to aging.
3.6.2 Treatment Options
They provide two treatment options for axillary tissue removal: liposuction and surgical excision. Liposuction is used for cases involving a small amount of tissue and is performed under local anesthesia through a discreet incision. Surgical excision is employed when a larger volume of tissue needs to be removed, and the incision is minimized to reduce scarring.
3.6.3 Benefits and Recovery
The benefits of an axilla lift include improved aesthetics, elimination of chafing, increased self - confidence, and enhanced wardrobe possibilities. Swelling should diminish within approximately two weeks, and patients can typically return to work within a week, though exercise should be postponed for three to four weeks.
4. Comparison of the Hospitals
| Hospital | Treatment Options | Expertise | Recovery Time | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preminger Plastic Surgery | Liposuction, Coolsculpting, Surgery | Dr. Preminger's extensive experience in axillary breast tissue removal | Return to work in 3 weeks, strenuous activity after 4 - 6 weeks | Minimally invasive techniques, high patient satisfaction |
| Practice of Dr. Casian Monaco | Liposuction, Direct Excision | Dr. Monaco's aesthetic and reconstructive surgery expertise | Not explicitly detailed, but generally fast recovery | Personalized approach, focus on patient comfort and satisfaction |
| Mount Sinai West | Minimally invasive breast surgery, Mastectomy, Reconstruction, etc. | Comprehensive breast care team with multiple specialties | Varies depending on the procedure | Advanced diagnostic and treatment services, strong academic backing |
| Montefiore Medical Center | Lumpectomy, Mastectomy, Reconstructive surgery, etc. | Multidisciplinary team approach for breast cancer treatment | Varies depending on the procedure | Active research participation, personalized treatment plans |
| NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital | Oncologic breast surgery, Cosmetic - outcome - focused surgery | Surgeons skilled in both cancer and cosmetic breast surgery | Varies depending on the procedure | Optimal cosmetic results in cancer surgery, second - opinion services |
| Athēnix Advanced Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Centers | Liposuction, Surgical Excision (Axilla Lift) | Specialization in axillary tissue removal | Return to work in 1 week, exercise after 3 - 4 weeks | Specific focus on axillary tissue, quick - results |
5. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
5.1 Expertise of the Surgeons
The experience and expertise of the surgeons are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who have a proven track record in treating axillary breast tissue. Board - certified surgeons are generally a good choice as they have met certain standards of training and proficiency.
5.2 Treatment Options Available
Different hospitals offer different treatment options. You should choose a hospital that provides the treatment method that is most suitable for your condition. For example, if you prefer a minimally invasive option, you may want to look for a hospital that specializes in such techniques.
5.3 Recovery Time and Support
Consider the estimated recovery time and the level of support the hospital provides during the recovery period. This includes post - operative care, pain management, and follow - up appointments.
5.4 Reputation and Patient Reviews
Research the hospital's reputation and read patient reviews. Positive reviews can give you an idea of the quality of care and the satisfaction of previous patients. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your primary care physician.
5.5 Cost and Insurance
Understand the cost of the treatment and check if your insurance covers it. Some hospitals may offer financing options or payment plans to help manage the cost.
6. Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with axillary breast tissue can be a source of discomfort and self - consciousness for many individuals. Fortunately, there are several popular hospitals in New York City that offer high - quality treatment options for this condition. Preminger Plastic Surgery, the practice of Dr. Casian Monaco, Mount Sinai West, Montefiore Medical Center, NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, and Athēnix Advanced Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Centers all have their own unique strengths in terms of expertise, treatment options, and patient care.
If you are considering axillary breast tissue treatment, it is essential to carefully evaluate these factors and choose the hospital that best meets your needs. Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with different hospitals to get a better understanding of the treatment process and the care you can expect. Take the first step towards a more comfortable and confident you by exploring these treatment options today!
