Buffalo Hump Treatment in NYC

Buffalo hump liposuction removes the buildup of excessive fat around the lower portion of the neck between the shoulder blades. “Buffalo hump” is a term that has been popularized to refer to fatty buildup in this region.

Fat at the base of the neck can be quite resistant to diet and exercise. Buffalo hump liposuction can permanently remove the fat hump, smooth out the area, and acieve an improved profile. Dr. Darren Smith uses the most advanced liposuction techniques (such as VASER ultrasound-assisted liposuction) to gently remove fat buildup.

What is a Buffalo Hump?

A buffalo hump is fatty excess of the dorsocervical fat pad. The fat sits at the base of the back of the neck and between the shoulders and leaves a noticeable hump. Excess body weight is a most common cause of a buffalo hump, but other factors and medical conditions may contribute as well.

Some examples may include:

1. Hormonal imbalance
2. Genetic predisposition to fat in this area
3. Cushing’s Syndrome
4. Medications for HIV (Lipodystrophy)
5. Tumor or pituitary dysfunction
6. Other endocrine issues
7. Poor posture or kyphodis may mimic this condition by favoring cervical flexion
8. Osteoporosis may also mimic this condition by causing cervical collapse 

It’s best to visit your doctor to diagnose the source of your buffalo hump before pursuing surgery. However, if your buffalo hump results from extra fat and is not caused by a medical condition, liposuction may help.

 If you have a hump at the base of your neck, visit Dr. Smith for your initial consultation.

What Happens During Buffalo Hump Liposuction?

Liposuction is an effective technique to eliminate unwanted fat and improve your upper back contour. Dr. Smith often uses power-assisted liposuction, assisted by VASER ultrasound when indicated, to break down the fibrous tissue in this part of the body while minimizing tissue trauma. First, Dr. Smith will make small incisions in the treatment area. Then, the dense fatty tissue of the hump is removed using a cannula to leave you with a smoother, flatter back. 

Buffalo hump removal is performed using a local anesthetic, meaning you’ll remain awake but numb throughout the procedure. For most patients, buffalo hump removal is less than one hour. Dr. Smith will suggest a compression garment you should wear full-time except when showering or bathing for the first 48 hours post-op as swelling resolves.

Immediately following your surgery, you’ll remain in one of our aftercare suits for a short time before Dr. Smith will release you. Please keep in mind that driving is not permitted after liposuction surgery. Instead, we recommend organizing a ride home with a trusted friend or family member.

Buffalo Hump Liposuction Recovery

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure. However, swelling, bruising, and soreness are common after liposuction surgery. These issues will gradually improve over the following days after your procedure. Many patients rely on OTC pain medication to ease any discomfort. 

Buffalo hump liposuction recovery is typically easy, and there is practically no downtime. Most patients can safely return to office-based work within a day or two of the procedure. However, if you have a more complex case or combine buffalo hump liposuction with other procedures, your recovery may be extended.

In general, patients should refrain from strenuous exercise for one-month post-op. Before you start working out again, it’s best to get approved by Dr. Smith.

When Will You See Results?

Liposuction permanently removes fat cells. You’ll notice a satisfying contour improvement within a couple weeks after surgery, but the final results will only show once the swelling has completely diminished. Final results can become apparent after 3 – 6 months.

Can a Buffalo Hump Come Back After Removal?

The risk of recurrence depends on the underlying cause. If a medical condition causes your buffalo hump, seeking proper medical care to manage your situation will help lower the risk of recurrence. Modifying medications can also prevent the hump from coming back in some cases. If your buffalo hump results from being overweight, the fat cells will not return. If you gain substantial weight after buffalo hump removal, you could have to undergo a second procedure.

NYC Buffalo Hump Liposuction

If you’re bothered by a buffalo hump, Dr. Smith can drastically improve the appearance of your back almost instantaneously with liposuction.

 To discuss the most effective treatment for your buffalo hump, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Darren Smith at our NYC office.