‘Buffalo hump’ behind neck may signal serious health issues, experts warn
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Often known as the “buffalo hump,” the fatty bulge at the bottom of the neck isn’t always just a cosmetic problem—experts say it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition.
As more and more Americans struggle with poor posture, obesity and chronic conditions that require long-term medication, experts warn that these factors may contribute to the development of “buffalo hump.”
There are a variety of possible causes and treatments for this widely misunderstood condition. health.com was reported recently.
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Chicago-based plastic surgeon and founder of DMR Aesthetics, Dr. “Buffalo hump is a fullness in the lower neck or upper back area,” Dahlia Rice told Fox News Digital.
Even if a person doesn’t have much fat, posture can make the hump more noticeable, Rice said. A forward head posture or rounding of the upper spine can contribute to this effect.
According to experts, hormonal changes involving cortisol can lead to fat accumulation in the neck and upper back. (iStock)
“Depending on the pattern and timing, it may also indicate an underlying medical problem,” the expert said.
Las Vegas-based plastic surgeon and founder of La Femme Plastic Surgery, Dr. According to Rachel Mason, this is often linked to weight, but that’s not always the case.
“In some cases, it can be associated with medical conditions such as Cushing syndrome or long-term steroid use,” he told Fox News Digital.
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“Depending on the pattern and timing, it may indicate an underlying medical problem.”
Experts say high levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, can also lead to fat accumulation in the neck and upper back. Some medications, including some HIV treatments, may also play a role, according to Health.com.
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Experts emphasize the importance of distinguishing between true buffalo hump and other conditions. Buffalo hump is often confused with posture-related “widow’s hump,” which results from spinal curvature rather than fat accumulation.
“A real buffalo hump will feel soft and oily,” Mason said. “Structural, posture-related issues require a completely different approach than fat reduction.”
Maintaining a healthy weight and good posture can help reduce the risk of developing buffalo hump, experts say. (iStock)
According to doctors, if the swelling appears suddenly, continues to grow, or is accompanied by other symptoms, medical evaluation is recommended.
“Patients should seek medical evaluation if it is accompanied by fatigue, muscle weakness, or changes in blood pressure,” Rice said. he advised.
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Mason added that symptoms such as easy bruising, hormonal changes or purple stretch marks may indicate an endocrine disorder rather than a cosmetic problem.
Treatment options largely depend on the underlying cause. In posture-related situations, physical therapy and strengthening exercises may be beneficial. When it comes to medications, doctors can adjust treatment.
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Cosmetic procedures may be considered for patients with localized fatty tissue and no underlying disease.
“Liposuction is often an effective option for shaping this area as it directly removes excess fat and improves the profile of the upper back and neck,” Mason said, noting that more extensive cases may require surgical removal of dense tissue.
“Liposuction is often an effective option for shaping this area, as it directly removes excess fat and improves the profile of the upper back and neck,” said one expert. (iStock)
Experts say lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, improving posture and monitoring long-term medication use, can help manage or reduce the condition.
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Although buffalo hump itself is generally not dangerous, untreated underlying conditions can lead to more serious complications, including high blood pressure or sleep problems, according to Health.com.
“Identifying the cause early is important to ensure the correct course of treatment is followed,” Mason said. he said.
