What is a buffalo hump?
A buffalo hump or dorsocervical fat pad is the area of excess fat that is located underneath the neck between the shoulder blades that is commonly treated with liposuction. This hump can often make you appear aged beyond your years. It is a fairly common condition – spend a moment thinking about it and you’ll be able to recall knowing or seeing someone who has a buffalo hump.
There are a range of causes, including:
- Genetics
- Bad posture: leaning forward and looking at your phone and slouching at your desk in front of the computer
- Weight gain
- Medications
- Spinal crush fracture
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Osteoporosis
While buffalo humps do not cause any other health problems, they can be seen as aesthetically unsightly. After all, it can be an area of the body which is very noticeable. It is also an area which is difficult to lose weight through diet and exercise. Fortunately, buffalo hump removal is a solution.
Can I have buffalo hump removal?
Buffalo hump removal is a suitable procedure for those who have a lump with they do not like the appearance of and wish to have removed. You will need to ensure you have a buffalo hump – in some cases, the lump may not be fat. Some people may have other medical conditions, such as Cushing’s Syndrome or cervical kyphosis.
You will need to be at least 18 years old to undergo this procedure.
What does Buffalo hump removal involve?
If you have tried non-surgical options, such as physical exercise, diet or posture adjustment, you may wish to undergo surgical buffalo hump removal. Surgery is performed with liposuction. At Centre for Surgery, this is carried out using tumescent liposuction commonly with a local anaesthetic with no need for general anaesthesia The procedure involves injecting a dilute local anaesthetic into the treatment area – in this case, the buffalo hump. This causes the area to become large, firm and swollen, otherwise known as tumescent. This makes it easier and safer for the surgeons to undertake liposuction. Tumescent liposuction means you will be awake throughout the duration of the procedure. However, due to the effects of local anaesthetic, you will not be able to feel any pain or discomfort. Once the area has become tumescent, the surgeon will make small incisions. This will allow for a small cannula to be inserted. This will be used to remove the excess fat from the neck and shoulders. Once the procedure is complete the area is covered with sterile dressings and you will have to wear a compression garment.
What happens during the recovery period?
It is normal to experience some swelling following this procedure. This will only last the first few days. You will be wearing a compression garment which will help to reduce swelling and optimise healing. You may notice an immediate reduction in size to the buffalo hump area. However, over the next few months results may continue to improve as swelling decreases and skin tightens.
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