Removal of Dorsocervical Fat Pad (Buffalo Hump) Through Liposuction
What is a Buffalo Hump?
A buffalo hump refers to an excessive build-up of fat at the back of the neck, presenting itself as a noticeable lump or hump. This condition, while typically not harmful from a health perspective, can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. It can affect one’s self-confidence due to its visible nature. Additionally, the presence of a buffalo hump may influence posture, potentially leading to discomfort or physical strain in some cases. Furthermore, this excess fat accumulation can restrict wardrobe choices, as certain clothing may not fit comfortably or look appealing with this added protrusion.
Despite being a benign condition, the psychological and physical inconveniences caused by a buffalo hump can be substantial, making it a concern for those who experience it. Understanding this issue is the first step towards finding effective solutions and improving both the aesthetic and functional aspects affected by it.
What Causes a Buffalo Hump?
The development of a buffalo hump, characterised by the accumulation of excess fat at the back of the neck, can be attributed to several key factors. These causes vary in nature and impact, each contributing to this condition in different ways:
Obesity
Excess body weight and obesity can contribute significantly to the formation of a buffalo hump. In obese individuals, fat tends to accumulate in various body parts, including the back of the neck, leading to this condition.
Certain Prescription Medications
Some medications, particularly those that affect hormonal balance or weight, can lead to the development of a buffalo hump as a side effect. This is often observed in treatments involving corticosteroids or other hormone-related therapies.
Side Effects of Steroid Use
Prolonged or excessive use of steroids is a common contributor to the formation of a buffalo hump. Steroids can lead to the redistribution of fat in the body, often resulting in an accumulation in the neck area.
Hormonal Imbalance
Fluctuations or imbalances in the body’s hormone levels can contribute to the formation of a buffalo hump. Hormonal changes can influence fat distribution and accumulation in specific body areas.
Cushing’s Syndrome
This medical condition, characterised by an overproduction of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, often leads to the development of a buffalo hump. The syndrome results in various physiological changes, including the abnormal deposition of fat.
Why do People Choose to get their buffalo Hump removed?
The presence of a buffalo hump can be quite conspicuous, often visibly protruding through clothing or extending above the collar line. This can significantly affect how clothes fit, potentially leading to discomfort and dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. The prominence of this condition can also limit wardrobe choices, as certain styles or fits may accentuate the hump or simply not sit well on the body.
For many individuals, the visual impact of a buffalo hump goes beyond mere aesthetic concerns. It can profoundly affect their confidence and self-perception, influencing how they feel in social or professional settings. In some cases, the buffalo hump can even affect posture, leading to physical discomfort and a need for corrective measures.
Buffalo hump surgery presents a transformative solution to these challenges. By removing the excess fat and reshaping the neck and upper back area, the surgery can significantly improve the physical appearance and restore a more natural contour. This, in turn, can lead to a notable boost in confidence, as individuals feel more comfortable and positive about their appearance.
Additionally, undergoing buffalo hump surgery can open up new possibilities in terms of fashion and clothing. With the removal of the protrusion, a wider range of clothing styles becomes more flattering and comfortable to wear. This newfound freedom in fashion choices can further enhance an individual’s self-esteem and overall quality of life.
The surgical correction of a buffalo hump can have beneficial effects on posture. By eliminating the excess weight and imbalance caused by the hump, patients often experience an improvement in their posture, resulting in reduced discomfort and a healthier spine alignment.
Am I suitable for buffalo hump removal?
Buffalo hump removal is an effective solution for adults who have accumulated fat pockets at the back of the neck and shoulder blades. At Centre for Surgery, we welcome individuals seeking this transformative procedure. However, to ensure the best outcomes and to maintain the highest standards of patient safety and satisfaction, we have established specific criteria to identify the ideal candidates for buffalo hump removal:
Presence of Stubborn Fat Pockets
The primary requirement for buffalo hump removal is the presence of persistent fat deposits in the back of the neck or shoulder blades. Candidates should be those who are looking to permanently eliminate these fat pockets, which have been resistant to traditional methods of weight loss and body contouring.
Good Psychological and Physical Health
Candidates must be in overall good health, meaning they have no significant underlying medical conditions that could complicate the procedure or recovery process. Good psychological health is equally important to ensure that the patient can handle the surgery and its aftermath positively and stably.
Ideal Weight and BMI
Candidates should ideally be at or near their target weight, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or less. This criterion is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in assessing the patient’s overall health status. Secondly, being at an ideal weight can enhance the effectiveness of the liposuction procedure and contribute to more pronounced and lasting results.
Realistic Expectations
Candidates must have a clear and realistic understanding of what buffalo hump removal can achieve. While the procedure can significantly improve the appearance and contour of the neck and back, patients need to have a practical perspective on the results.
Buffalo Hump Removal Procedure
Buffalo hump removal surgery is predominantly accomplished through liposuction, a highly effective and established method for permanently eliminating stubborn fat deposits that are unresponsive to traditional lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise.
In the process of buffalo hump removal, the excess fat that contributes to the hump is meticulously targeted using a specialised cannula. This cannula, a thin tube-like instrument, is designed to precisely break up and dislodge the fat tissue in the targeted area. Once the fat has been effectively broken down, it is then removed from the body through the vacuuming process. This process is carried out with careful attention to detail to ensure that the natural contours of the neck and upper back are enhanced and preserved.
The removal of these fat deposits results in a significant and noticeable reduction in the size and prominence of the buffalo hump. Patients undergoing this procedure often experience a substantial improvement in the appearance of their neck and back, resulting in a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing profile.
Moreover, the benefits of buffalo hump removal via liposuction extend beyond just cosmetic improvements. Many patients find that the procedure can lead to an increased sense of self-confidence and comfort in their own skin. The physical change often correlates with a positive psychological impact, as patients feel more at ease with their appearance and in their clothing.
Types of liposuction available at Centre for Surgery to remove a buffalo hump
At Centre for Surgery, we understand that each patient has unique needs and preferences when it comes to liposuction procedures. To cater to these diverse requirements, we offer a range of liposuction options, each utilising advanced technology and techniques to ensure optimal results and patient satisfaction. Our liposuction services include:
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
This technique involves the use of specially designed cannulas equipped with motors. These motors generate a vibration that effectively loosens and dislodges fat cells, making it easier to vacuum them away safely and efficiently. The vibratory motion of the cannulas in PAL enables a more precise and less invasive fat removal process, which is particularly effective for treating areas such as the buffalo hump.
BodyTite Combined with PAL Liposuction
For a more intensive approach to buffalo hump fat removal, we offer a combination of BodyTite and PAL Liposuction. This innovative method is unique in its ability to target fat deposits more closely to the muscle compared to other liposuction techniques. BodyTite utilises radiofrequency energy to break down the fat, making it easier to be suctioned away with the PAL system. This dual approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the fat removal but also ensures minimal invasiveness. Patients can expect a shorter downtime and a quicker recovery process, making it an ideal choice for those seeking efficient results with minimal disruption to their daily lives.
How Much Does Buffalo Hump Removal Cost In London?