Understanding Accessory Breasts: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Advances in Seoul

“I always thought it was just a stubborn lump under my arm—until I found out it was actually breast tissue,” says a patient treated at Dite Plastic Surgery in Gangnam. For many, the discovery of accessory breast tissue—clinically termed polymastia—can be unexpected and emotionally taxing.

Often overlooked, accessory breasts affect a small percentage of the population and can manifest anywhere along the embryological milk lines—from the armpits to the groin. Though benign, this condition can lead to discomfort, body image concerns, and hormonal sensitivity. With increased awareness and advanced surgical options, individuals now have access to effective, minimally invasive solutions.

What Are Accessory Breasts?

Accessory breasts are extra breast tissue that develops outside the normal pectoral region. Commonly found in the axilla (underarm), this tissue may resemble a soft lump and can even develop areolae or nipples. While typically harmless, their presence may cause physical irritation or psychological distress, particularly during hormonal shifts such as puberty or pregnancy.

The condition, while rare, is not entirely unknown in the medical community. Studies estimate the prevalence of accessory breast tissue to be around 1-6% globally, with a higher incidence in women. However, it can also affect men, often leading to delayed diagnosis due to a lack of awareness. Accessory breasts typically consist of glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes even ductal components, making them biologically similar to normal breast tissue.

What Causes Accessory Breast Tissue?

Accessory breasts form during fetal development when the mammary ridges fail to regress fully. This congenital anomaly can be influenced by several factors:

• Hereditary Links: A family history of polymastia may increase the likelihood of its appearance. There is growing evidence that certain genetic markers may predispose individuals to incomplete regression of mammary lines.

• Hormonal Triggers: Estrogen and other hormonal fluctuations during life stages like adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause can stimulate growth in this tissue. Hormone replacement therapy or endocrine disorders can also act as triggers.

• Endocrine Disorders: Conditions such as PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), adrenal hyperplasia, or hormone-secreting tumors may exacerbate tissue proliferation. These should be evaluated and managed in conjunction with a specialist.

Clinical literature suggests that while the etiology is primarily developmental, secondary influences—such as hormonal therapy—can also prompt accessory tissue to enlarge or become symptomatic.

Recognizing Symptoms

Accessory breast tissue varies widely in presentation. Common symptoms include:

• Soft Mass or Lump: Usually in the underarm, these feel similar to normal breast tissue. In some cases, patients report noticing these during physical exams, particularly during self-breast checks or routine mammograms.

• Swelling or Tenderness: Especially around menstrual cycles or hormonal fluctuations, the tissue may become engorged and painful.

• Changes in Appearance: Growth in size or visibility, sometimes with pigmentation or nipple-like features. Some patients may experience cyclical changes similar to those seen in normal breast tissue.

• Emotional Impact: Many patients report reduced confidence or social discomfort, particularly during warmer months or physical activity. The presence of visible asymmetry or unexpected tissue can affect clothing choices and self-image.

It’s crucial to differentiate accessory breast tissue from other masses such as lipomas, cysts, or lymphadenopathy. A proper clinical evaluation often involves imaging (like ultrasound or MRI) and, in some cases, a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Clinical Treatment Options at Dite Plastic Surgery

Under the guidance of Dr. Jun Wook Lee, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of surgical experience, Dite Plastic Surgery offers evidence-based, patient-specific approaches for treating accessory breasts.

1. Liposuction (Minimally Invasive Removal)

Ideal for fatty tissue without glandular components, liposuction involves the removal of excess fat using micro-cannulas. At Dite, laser-assisted liposuction is utilized to minimize trauma, reduce scarring, and accelerate recovery. Most patients resume daily activities within a few days.

“We recommend liposuction for patients seeking quick recovery and minimal downtime,” says Dr. Lee. “It’s effective for axillary fullness with no glandular structure.”

This technique is particularly beneficial for patients with mild to moderate axillary fullness who want a more sculpted appearance without extensive surgery.

2. Surgical Excision (Glandular Removal)

When fibroglandular tissue or nipple-areola complexes are present, surgical excision offers definitive results. This outpatient procedure uses carefully placed incisions to minimize visible scarring. Histological evaluation post-removal also rules out rare pathologies.

Patients undergoing surgical excision typically require general anesthesia. The recovery timeline varies but usually involves 7-14 days of limited physical activity, with full recovery expected within a month.

3. Nipple and Areola Reconstruction

In cases where accessory tissue includes a supernumerary nipple or areola, cosmetic correction can significantly enhance chest symmetry. Dite's surgical team employs 3D aesthetic mapping for natural-looking outcomes tailored to the patient's anatomy.

This precision-based technique ensures that scarring is concealed and that the overall balance of the chest is maintained, especially important for individuals concerned about aesthetics post-removal.

4. Hormonal Therapy Referral

For hormonally influenced growth, Dr. Lee coordinates with endocrinologists to evaluate whether hormonal modulation can curb tissue expansion or recurrence—especially important in younger or reproductive-age patients.

In cases tied to PCOS or other endocrine disorders, managing the underlying condition may prevent recurrence or additional breast tissue formation.

5. Post-Surgical Breast Sculpting

If tissue removal disrupts breast harmony, reconstructive contouring may be offered to maintain aesthetic balance. Techniques include autologous fat grafting and scar refinement to blend surgical results seamlessly into natural contours.

This stage of treatment is particularly valuable for patients who have undergone large tissue removal and wish to achieve a proportionate, natural result.

Why Dite Plastic Surgery?

Located in Gangnam, a global hub for aesthetic medicine, Dite Plastic Surgery merges clinical precision with artistic finesse. Dr. Jun Wook Lee is a member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (KSPRS) and has performed over 10,000 body contouring procedures, including rare cases involving polymastia.

• High-Tech Equipment: Including VASER liposuction, high-resolution ultrasound, and fiber-assisted laser therapies.

• Multilingual Staff: Supporting global patients with personalized treatment planning in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese.

• Safety Protocols: All surgeries follow stringent patient safety guidelines, including ultrasound mapping and photographic documentation to track outcomes and prevent complications.

Dite Plastic Surgery’s international reputation is built on consistency, quality, and patient satisfaction. Their comprehensive consultation process includes a full diagnostic evaluation, preoperative imaging, and a customized care plan.

Patient Experience

A recent patient noted:

“I had always hidden my underarm area. After my treatment at Dite, I finally feel confident in my own skin. Dr. Lee’s team made every step seamless and reassuring.”

Many patients share similar testimonials, citing not only aesthetic improvements but a restored sense of confidence and comfort.

Final Thoughts

If you suspect accessory breast tissue or have been living with axillary fullness, it’s worth consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon. Treatment isn’t only about aesthetics—it’s about comfort, confidence, and reclaiming your body.

For specialized evaluation and care, Dite Plastic Surgery provides medically sound, aesthetically focused options tailored to your needs. Schedule your consultation today to take the next step toward resolution and renewal.