So many names – “bra bulge”, “underarm fat”, “underarm pooch”, “side boob fat”, “pit pudge”, “underarm flab” – and none of them flattering, just like its appearance. Underarm fat, which is separate from breast tissue, can be especially frustrating because it often doesn’t respond to workouts or diet adjustments. In fact, it’s very difficult, if not impossible, to target this specific area with exercise alone. Fortunately, there are non-surgical treatments that can smooth out that area.
Where Does Undearm Fat Come From?
First, let’s take a look at the various factors that lead to the appearance of arm pit fat. Understanding the various reasons for it helps in choosing the best approach to reduce or treat it — whether through lifestyle adjustments or non-surgical aesthetic treatments.
-
Genetics and Body Structure
Some people are simply predisposed to carry more fat in certain areas, including under the arms. It’s a matter of body shape, and while it may be frustrating, it’s more about where your body naturally stores fat than a result of lifestyle choices. This is why even thin individuals can sometimes have underarm fat.
-
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, especially in women, can affect fat distribution. During puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, shifts in estrogen and other hormones can cause fat to accumulate in areas like the underarms. Hormones can also influence muscle mass and skin elasticity, both of which contribute to how this area appears.
-
Poor Posture
Poor posture, particularly rounded shoulders or forward head posture, can contribute to the appearance of underarm fat. When your posture is off, muscles in the back and chest area can weaken, making the fat in the armpit area more prominent. Correcting posture won’t eliminate fat but can improve the overall appearance.
-
Age-Related Skin Laxity
As we age, skin loses its elasticity and muscle tone decreases, making areas like the underarms more susceptible to sagging and the appearance of fat. Even if there isn’t a significant amount of fat, the laxity of skin can create the look of excess fat in this area.
-
Lack of Targeted Muscle Development
Although spot-reducing fat isn’t possible, toning the muscles under the arms can reduce the appearance of underarm fat. If the muscles in this area – like the triceps and pectoral muscles – are underdeveloped, the fat may appear more noticeable.
-
Weight Fluctuations
While underarm fat isn’t strictly weight-related, weight fluctuations can still play a role. When weight is gained, fat is distributed across the body, and the underarm area may store more fat depending on individual body composition.
Lifestyle Improvements with Underarm Fat Reduction
Beyond achieving a sleek, contoured look, reducing bra fat can bring significant improvements to your daily life:
Improved Comfort
No more bra digging into your skin or causing pressure points. It can also reduce chafing, especially during exercise.
Better Fit for Clothing
With less underarm fat, fitted tops and dresses will sit better on your body, enhancing your appearance and boosting confidence.
Enhanced Mobility
Reducing excess fat in this area can lead to greater ease of movement, especially during activities like lifting weights or yoga.
Easier Exercise
Certain exercises can become more comfortable, leading to a more enjoyable and effective workout experience.
Boosted Confidence
Feel more confident in sleeveless tops, swimsuits, and form-fitting clothing, which can positively impact your social and professional life.
Better Posture
Excess fat in the underarm area can sometimes pull the shoulders forward, contributing to poor posture. Reducing this fat can help you stand taller and look more confident.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Here are some non-surgical treatment options to consider for getting rid of the stubborn arm pit fat.
CoolSculpting
What It Is: CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate stubborn fat cells. It’s particularly effective for targeting small areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.
How It Works: During the procedure, a CoolSculpting applicator is placed on the treatment area, delivering controlled cooling to the fat cells beneath the skin. Over time, these fat cells are naturally eliminated by the body, resulting in a more contoured appearance.
Benefits:
- No surgery or downtime
- Effective for small, stubborn fat deposits
- Long-lasting results
CoolSculpting Info and Pricing
EvolveX
What It Is: EvolveX is a cutting-edge body contouring treatment that combines radiofrequency energy with electrical muscle stimulation to reduce fat and tone muscles.
How It Works: EvolveX uses radiofrequency energy to target and reduce fat cells while simultaneously stimulating the muscles to improve tone and firmness. This dual-action treatment is ideal for patients looking to reduce underarm fat while also enhancing muscle definition.
Benefits:
- Non-invasive with no downtime
- Simultaneously reduces fat and tones muscles
- Can be customized to target specific areas
Skin Tightening with Morpheus8
What It Is: Morpheus8 is a minimally invasive treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to tighten and contour the skin.
How It Works: Morpheus8 delivers radiofrequency energy deep into the skin, stimulating collagen production and remodeling the underlying tissues. This can help reduce the appearance of underarm fat and tighten the skin for a smoother, more sculpted look.
Benefits:
-
- Minimally invasive with minimal downtime
- Tightens skin while reducing fat
- Stimulates collagen production for long-lasting results
Morpheus8 for Body Info and Pricing
Non-surgical treatments offer effective solutions for reducing arm pit fat without the need for surgery. Whether you’re looking to freeze away fat with CoolSculpting, tone muscles with EvolveX, or tighten skin with Morpheus8, these options can help you achieve the smoother, more contoured appearance you desire. Come in for a complimentary consultation with our Medical Aestheticians, so we can help you find the right modality for your skin and body type.
Still… Liposuction: A Fast Fix
If you’re after a quicker, more permanent solution to get rid of stubborn underarm fat, liposuction might be the answer. This surgical option removes fat cells directly, giving you immediate, long-lasting results. Unlike non-surgical treatments, liposuction delivers more dramatic contouring in just one procedure. While there’s some downtime involved, it’s a one-time treatment that doesn’t need follow-ups. If you’re looking for a more defined, sculpted look and you want to say goodbye to those fat cells for good, liposuction could be worth considering.
