A buffalo hump is a noticeable fatty deposit that forms at the base of the neck and upper back. This accumulation of fat creates a rounded lump, resembling the hump of a bison. Medically known as a dorsocervical fat pad, its presence is a concern due to both its cosmetic appearance and potential connection to underlying health conditions.
Understanding a Buffalo Hump
A buffalo hump is an accumulation of fatty tissue on the back of the neck, typically between the shoulder blades. This visible, rounded lump varies in size and generally feels like soft tissue, distinguishing it from bone curvature. While often a cosmetic concern, its presence can indicate a broader issue with how the body processes or stores fat. Located at the junction of the cervical and thoracic spine, it can sometimes impact comfort. It is distinct from a “Dowager’s hump,” which is an excessive spinal curvature caused by factors like poor posture or osteoporosis.
Common Causes of a Buffalo Hump
Several factors can contribute to the formation of a buffalo hump, often linked to how the body handles fat or hormones.
Hormonal Imbalances
Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder from prolonged high cortisol levels, is a significant cause. Excess cortisol leads to abnormal fat distribution, including the upper back and face. This can result from the body producing too much cortisol or long-term use of certain cortisol-mimicking medications.
Medication Side Effects
Long-term use of corticosteroids, like prednisone, can induce fat distribution changes similar to Cushing’s syndrome. Some antiretroviral medications for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can also cause lipodystrophy, leading to abnormal fat accumulation in areas like the upper back.
Lifestyle and Genetics
Excess body weight and obesity can contribute, as the body may store fat in the dorsocervical region. While not always the sole cause, obesity can worsen the hump’s appearance. Poor posture, such as chronic slouching, can weaken neck and upper back muscles, potentially contributing to its development. Genetic predisposition may also play a role, making some individuals more likely to accumulate fat in this area.
Non-Surgical Ways to Reduce a Buffalo Hump
Addressing a buffalo hump often begins with non-surgical approaches, particularly when the underlying cause is amenable to lifestyle adjustments.
Weight Management
Reducing overall body fat through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly diminish the hump’s size, particularly if weight gain contributed to its development. While targeted fat reduction in this specific area isn’t possible, overall weight loss can reduce its appearance.
Posture Correction
Improving posture can help, especially if poor posture contributed to the hump’s prominence. Exercises that strengthen upper back and neck muscles, like shoulder blade retractions, can improve spinal alignment. Ergonomic adjustments, such as proper computer screen height, also support better posture.
Medication Review
If a buffalo hump is a medication side effect, consult a healthcare provider about potential adjustments. A doctor may modify the dosage or type of medication, or explore alternatives that do not cause this side effect. Any changes to medication should only be made under professional supervision.
Medical and Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical methods are insufficient, or an underlying medical condition requires direct intervention, medical and surgical treatments may be considered.
Medical Management
Managing the root cause is often the first step. For example, treating Cushing’s syndrome’s hormonal imbalance can reduce the fat deposit. This may involve medications to lower cortisol or addressing tumors causing excess hormone production.
Surgical Options
For humps persisting despite medical management or those primarily cosmetic, surgical options are available. Liposuction is a common procedure to remove excess fatty tissue from the dorsocervical fat pad. A thin tube, or cannula, is inserted through small incisions to suction out the fat, creating a smoother contour. Since the fat can be fibrous, specialized liposuction techniques may be used. If the fat is very fibrous or liposuction is insufficient, direct excision surgery may be an option. This involves surgically removing the fatty deposit through an incision on the upper back. Consultation with a healthcare professional, such as a plastic surgeon, is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Preventing a Buffalo Hump
Preventing the formation or recurrence of a buffalo hump involves a combination of lifestyle practices and proactive health management.
Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity helps prevent excess fat accumulation, including in the dorsocervical region. Consistent physical activity supports overall body composition.
Good Posture
Practicing good posture consistently helps maintain proper spinal alignment and reduces strain on the neck and upper back. Incorporating exercises that strengthen postural muscles can further support healthy posture, deterring hump development caused by slouching.
Regular Medical Care
Regular medical check-ups allow for early detection and management of underlying health conditions. Addressing hormonal imbalances or other medical issues can prevent the hump from forming or growing. Discussing medication side effects with your doctor is also important; if a medication causes fat accumulation, alternatives or dosage adjustments may be considered.