My back and neck area - Is this a buffalo hump and what would be the best options? (Photo)

Question

There's somethinng wrong with my back. I can't tell exactly what it is. Btw I am 108.0pds and 23.1% body fat. I am 4'11". 35 yrs old.

Chad Deal, MD · Answer

Buffalo humps are fairly benign fat bulges are due to a variety of conditions. The bulges themselves are easily treated with liposuction that is virtually scarless with only one very small puncture. I have treated several of these, particularly with the Vaser, and every patient has been extremely happy

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You need to be examined in person.  Sometimes lipomas will present as fat accumulation.  This has to be differentiated between the two.  Lipomas can usually be excised others they can be liposucted.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

It’s also called a dorsocervical fat pad and it’s due to excess fat over the midline of the lower neck and upper back. The treatment is a specialized liposuction technique. This is one of our most popular procedures. Feel free to reach out and scheduled a consultation. The consultation can be virtual or in person.

Roger Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Dazzling4662,
Based on the photo that you provided, I do think that this area in your upper back/lower neck may represent a condition commonly referred to as a 'buffalo hump.' Other items on the differential diagnosis include a large lipoma (fatty tumor with a capsule around it) or early kyphosis (rounding of the spine - doubtful given your young age). I would recommend that you show the area to a qualified surgeon so that they may confirm with an exam what this area represents or order an ultrasound to assess for a well-defined capsule that may represent a mass rather than fatty tissue accumulation. Treatment options range from liposuction to the area to surgical excision. Each method has its pros and cons, and the surgeon you meet with will be able to specifically discuss which approach makes the most sense for you. 
Sincerely,Dr. Smith

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You have what is called a buffalo hump which is a genetic tendency. The excess fat can nicely be treated with liposuction. This is quite common.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell from the provided photo but you many have contour improvement with some liposuction.  Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who can discuss options with you after an examination.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

A buffalo hump is primarily caused by the curvature of the spine in this area, which some people have more than others spread.
The condition typically does not involve an abnormal fat distribution.
The area typically has enough subcutaneous fat that Liposuction alone gives a good improvement in contour.
Different doctors may have different opinions about this, but that has been my experience, 
Generally, Liposuction works well with good patient satisfaction.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

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