Lipo or Kybella for treatment of a buffalo hump?

Question

I have had the buffalo hump for many years now, where c7 protrudes. It is genetic and my neck has always caused me pain. When I wear a halter top it presses down on the c7 and causes very bad headaches. If I get this buffalo hump removed will it help my neck pain and allow better neck movement? I have heard of kybella being an option for it as well as liposuction. Thoughts on either?

Sabrina Fabi, MD · Answer

Liposuction is the easiest way to remove a buffalo hump, especially if it’s large. Buffalo humps contain dense fat and liposuction breaks that up with a tumescent solution. If the hump is very small and you don’t want any kind of downtime, then Kybella may be an option, but it would take a few treatments and may cause some swelling. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist will help you make the right decision.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For best results improving a buffalo hump, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER liposuction. I use VASER HI DEF with ThermiRF and fat grafting to get the most fat removal, skin tightening, contour and definition. This combination will give you the most toned result. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hi definition physique expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Anteneh Roba, MD · Answer

Kybella is approved for submental fat reduction and if used off label it could work for Buffalo hump, but I think you are better off doing the liposuction for good results and for improvement in pain.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

A buffalo hump is normally caused by excess fat in that area.  I find that ultrasonic liposuction works best to reduce a buffalo hump.  Kybella could potentially be used for that area, but it would be considered an off label use.  Kybella normally involves several treatment sessions as well.  Depending on the size of the buffalo hump, it is also possible that Kybella could cost more than ultrasonic liposuction.  Reducing a buffalo hump usually does improve mobility of the neck.  For some people, it helps with pain as well but that is not a guarantee.

Glow Med Spa - Encino · Answer

Hello!
Kybella has been successfully used off label to decrease a buffalo hump. The size of the hump determines how many treatments and vials you will need. However we cannot determine if treatment will decrease discomfort to your cervical spine as the two may be unrelated. We recommend that you see a specialist that can help you with your particular problem. 
Best of Luck!
Glow Med Spa Encino

Lipo or Kybella for treatment of a buffalo hump?

Answers (5)