A buffalo hump refers to a noticeable accumulation of excess fat at the base of the neck, between the shoulder blades. This localized fat deposit can create an undesirable lump, sometimes making the neck appear shorter or the shoulders more hunched. Liposuction offers a method to remove this excess fat, aiming to re-contour the affected area and provide a smoother profile.
Understanding a Buffalo Hump
A buffalo hump, also known as a dorsocervical fat pad, is an accumulation of fatty tissue on the upper back, just below the neck. Its appearance can vary from a small lump to a more pronounced mound. This fat pad is distinct from a “dowager’s hump,” which is an excessive spinal curvature often linked to poor posture or osteoporosis.
Several factors contribute to the development of a buffalo hump. Obesity and generalized weight gain can lead to fat deposition in this region, though this fat may not always respond to diet and exercise alone. Certain medications, such as long-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone, can cause a redistribution of fat throughout the body, known as steroid-induced lipodystrophy. Medical conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, characterized by high levels of the hormone cortisol, frequently result in fat accumulation in the neck, face, and abdomen. Hormonal imbalances, HIV medications, and Madelung’s disease, a rare metabolic disorder, can also contribute to these localized fat deposits.
The Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction for a buffalo hump is a surgical procedure to remove the localized fatty deposit and re-contour the upper back and neck. It begins with anesthesia, ranging from local with sedation to general, depending on the extent of fat removal and patient preference. Small incisions, usually less than half an inch, are strategically made in inconspicuous areas around the buffalo hump.
A tumescent fluid, a sterile solution containing saline, lidocaine (a local anesthetic), and epinephrine (a vasoconstrictor), is then infiltrated into the fatty tissue through these incisions. This fluid helps to numb the area, minimize blood loss, and make the fat easier to remove. Following infiltration, a thin, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through the same small incisions. The surgeon moves the cannula back and forth within the fatty layer, mechanically breaking up the fat cells.
The dislodged fat cells are then suctioned out through the cannula, connected to a vacuum device. The surgeon continuously assesses the contour by direct examination and palpation to ensure a uniform reduction and symmetrical outcome. This precise technique allows for targeted fat removal. Once the desired amount of fat is removed, the small incisions are typically closed with sutures or surgical tape, which generally heal with minimal scarring.
Who is a Candidate for Removal?
Individuals considering buffalo hump liposuction are assessed based on several criteria. A good candidate has a buffalo hump primarily composed of excess fat that has not responded to traditional weight loss methods like diet and exercise. The fat deposit should be localized, meaning it is a distinct accumulation rather than generalized obesity throughout the back.
Overall health is a significant factor; candidates should be in good general health with no serious medical conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe heart disease. A thorough medical evaluation, including a review of medical history and current medications, is conducted to identify any potential risks. Maintaining a stable weight before the procedure is also advised, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the long-term results.
Recovery and Expected Results
Following buffalo hump liposuction, patients can expect a recovery period involving swelling and bruising in the treated area. Swelling usually peaks within 48 hours and gradually subsides over several weeks. Bruising is also common and typically fades within the first one to two weeks. Discomfort is normal, and pain medication is usually prescribed to manage it during the initial days.
A compression garment is often recommended for several weeks, sometimes up to six weeks, to help reduce swelling, support healing tissues, and encourage skin contraction. Most patients can return to light activities and office work within one to two weeks post-surgery, though strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. While initial improvements are noticeable as swelling decreases, final results may take several months, up to six to twelve months, to fully materialize as the body heals and skin adjusts. The fat cells removed during liposuction do not regenerate, meaning results are long-lasting, provided the patient maintains a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Important Considerations Before Treatment
Before undergoing buffalo hump liposuction, several important considerations require evaluation. Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in liposuction procedures, specifically for buffalo humps, is important. A qualified surgeon will conduct a comprehensive consultation, assessing your specific condition, discussing your aesthetic goals, and determining if liposuction is the most appropriate treatment.
During this consultation, it is important to have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes. While liposuction can significantly improve contour, it may not achieve perfection, and individual results can vary based on factors like skin elasticity and the amount of fat removed. Understanding potential complications is also important; these can include temporary side effects like swelling, bruising, and numbness, as well as rarer risks such as infection, asymmetry, or scarring. The surgeon will explain these risks in detail. It is also important to address any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the buffalo hump, as failing to manage these can lead to recurrence of the fat deposit even after surgery.