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Miami, FL

Buffalo Hump Reduction

Buffalo Hump Reduction Surgery With Dr. Gallagher In Miami

Dr. Gallagher in Miami offers specialized buffalo hump reduction surgery, also known as dorsocervical fat pad removal, to help individuals regain their self-esteem and improve their overall appearance. A buffalo hump refers to the accumulation of fat in the upper back, creating a prominent hump-like appearance. Dr. Gallagher utilizes advanced liposuction techniques to effectively reduce the buffalo hump, resulting in a smoother, more contoured back. In certain cases, buffalo humps may require an incision if they are too fibrotic and not amenable to liposuction. In this article, we will explore the details of buffalo hump reduction surgery, explain the causes of a buffalo hump, and introduce the removal technique employed by Dr. Gallagher.

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Understanding Buffalo Hump and Its Causes

A buffalo hump is characterized by an excessive deposit of fat in the upper back, resulting in a pronounced hump-like appearance. Several factors contribute to the development of a buffalo hump, including:

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as those associated with Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal gland disorders, can lead to the accumulation of fat in specific areas, including the upper back.
  • Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to accumulate fat in the upper back, making them more prone to developing a buffalo hump.
  • HIV Medication Use: Certain antiretroviral medications used in the treatment of HIV can cause fat redistribution in the body, leading to the development of a buffalo hump.

What Are the Benefits of a Buffalo Hump Reduction?

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The primary benefit of removing a buffalo hump is the slimmer, smoother contour it provides. Some patients are insecure about the appearance of a “hunch back,” so having this procedure done allows them to feel more confident walking around in clothing, swimwear, and intimate wear. Additionally, having the extra fat removed harmonizes the figure with the rest of the body’s proportions, resulting in a silhouette that is both slimmer and curvier. The results are long-lasting with proper care and stable weight maintenance.

Is Buffalo Hump Reduction Surgery Suitable For Everyone With a Buffalo Hump?

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Buffalo hump reduction surgery is typically appropriate for individuals whose hump is primarily composed of excess fat. In some cases, the hump may be fibrotic and not amenable to liposuction alone. A midline back incision will be needed to remove it carefully. Fluid collections after this type of removal are notorious. Patients seek out Dr Gallagher for this technique, as she has pioneered a drain-free approach to reduce the risk of this and contribute to a speedier recovery. Buffalo hump removal surgery may not be suitable for cases where other factors, such as bone or abnormal growth, cause the hump.

What’s the First Step?

Your Buffalo Hump Journey With Dr. Buffalo

The first step in the process of having buffalo hump reduction is to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Gallagher either virtually or in her Miami office, where she will take the time to discuss your goals and concerns. During this appointment, she will also review your medical history, examine the area of concern, and develop a surgical plan to effectively remove fat from the upper back using liposuction or direct excision.

This is your time to ask questions and be completely open and honest about what you’d like to get out of this surgery. Our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure you are completely comfortable and informed before moving forward.

What to Expect on the Day of Buffalo Hump Reduction Surgery

Your surgery will be performed at our Miami surgical facility, where your comfort and safety are put first. Our team will meet with you to review your surgical plan one last time, before you’re given either general anesthesia or a mild sedation (depending on the complexity of the procedure and your surgical plan), before getting started. Dr. Gallagher will use liposuction or direct excision to remove excess fat and tissue around the upper back and shoulder area.

Once complete, incisions will be closed delicately with sutures to minimize scarring, and you will be able to return home the same day and begin the recovery process.

Buffalo Hump Reduction Surgery Technique

Dr. Gallagher employs a specialized liposuction or direct excision technique to reduce the buffalo hump and restore a more balanced back profile. The procedure generally involves the following steps:

  • Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort during the surgery. Dr. Gallagher will determine the most appropriate anesthesia option based on your specific needs.
  • Incisions: Small incisions, typically less than half an inch in length, are strategically made in inconspicuous areas of the upper back, allowing access to the buffalo hump. If an excision technique is needed, there will be a single midline incision.
  • Liposuction: Through these small incisions, Dr. Gallagher uses a thin tube, called a cannula, to carefully suction excess fat from the buffalo hump. The liposuction technique employed aims to achieve a smoother contour and a more proportional back appearance.
  • Incision Closure and Recovery: After completing the liposuction, the incisions are closed with sutures. Dr. Gallagher will provide you with specific post-operative instructions, including guidelines for recovery, pain management, and wearing compression garments to support healing and contouring.
  • Cautionary Note: It is important to note that buffalo hump reduction surgery is not suitable for cases where the hump is caused by bone or abnormal growth. Dr. Gallagher will evaluate your individual situation during the consultation and recommend the most appropriate treatment option accordingly.

Open Excision of a Buffalo Hump

In some cases of buffalo hump, especially those where HIV lipodystrophy may be involved, liposuction may not be adequate to remove all the tissue, as it can become fibrotic. In this case, we will need to make an incision along the center of the upper back to remove it. The incision will be approximately 10-20 cm in length, which is often the case if the buffalo hump is present in many patients. With this surgery, there is always a risk of fluid collections during recovery. Dr Gallagher uses a special suture technique, internal progressive tension sutures, to eliminate the dead space left behind and avoid the need for drains.

How Long Is The Recovery Period After Buffalo Hump Reduction Surgery?

Your Guide to Post-Buffalo Hump Reduction Care

The recovery period varies from person to person. Generally, patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks. Dr. Gallagher will provide you with specific post-operative guidelines to promote healing and ensure a smooth recovery process.

How Much Does a Buffalo Hump Reduction Cost in Miami?

The cost of a Buffalo Hump Reduction in Miami depends on the complexity of your surgery. It also takes into account the surgeon’s expertise, facility fees, medications, and anesthesia. Since no two individuals are the same, pricing will depend on your unique case, which will be determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Gallagher. During this time, you’ll get an exact price breakdown, as well as options for financing if needed, which we are happy to discuss with you.

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Why Choose Dr. Gallagher?

Dr. Sidhbh Gallagher is a distinguished, double board-certified plastic surgeon in both general and plastic surgery in Miami, FL. Her affiliations with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the Aesthetic Society speak volumes to the respect she holds for her patients, as well as her expertise and dedication to the field. Widely sought after in Florida, patients choose Dr. Gallagher for her patient-centered approach, beautiful and natural-looking results, and guidance throughout the entire surgical process.

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Buffalo Hump Reduction FAQ’S

See what our Patients Say

Patient Reviews

  • Dr. Gallagher, wearing a surgical cap and mask, is shown from the back of the head and shoulder, dressed in a blue surgical gown, looking down toward a bright operating area.

    I had an amazing experience with Dr.Gallagher and her team, the whole experience from the procedure (top surgery) to the post-op care has been fantastic. Dr.Gallagher was able to address any concerns I had with my chest before the procedure and made me feel comfortable the whole way through, and then the attentiveness post-op is all the better.

    Alfio Oliveira (Jay)

  • Dr. Gallagher (left), in a white lab coat, and a blonde patient (right), in a blue patterned hospital gown, smile and look up at the camera. The patient is holding up a peace sign with one hand. A piece of art with the colors of the transgender flag is visible on the wall behind them.

    Thank you so much Dr. Gallagher for your amazing work! I appreciated the great support from your team at the surgical centre and your office. Everyone was so wonderful! I am extremely happy with my results and had a very positive experience. I had followed Dr. Gallagher for several years on Instagram prior to my surgery, and learned so much from her detailed explanations about various aspects of the surgical procedures, what to expect on the day, recovery, etc. I had complete trust, felt safe, felt listened to. I also appreciate the follow-ups, and answers to all my questions. The support, warmth, care is top notch!

    Gill B.

  • Dr. Suzanne Gallagher, a blonde woman in light green scrubs, stands next to a patient lying on a bed (only the patient's arm is visible) behind a blue curtain in what appears to be a clinical or operating room setting. She is smiling and gesturing with her right hand while her left hand is on her hip.

    Dr. Gallagher and her whole team, from Neasa to Daryl Ann and everyone else in between, are absolutely fantastic, kind hearted, hard working people. Dr. Gallagher truly amazed me and I’m so grateful to have had her on my team.

    I was able to get keyhole top surgery about three weeks ago and I’m loving my results already! I’m muscular and heavier set as well but always had a smaller chest, and I’m so glad Dr. Gallagher was the one who could do this for me.

    Right now I am still experiencing swelling, but I am using compression dressings every day, throughout the day which helps tons! I know that when the swelling subsides months from now, and everything is “back to normal”, I am going to love even more what I see in the mirror because I can finally see me.

    Morgan F.

  • Dr. Gallagher, wearing a surgical cap and mask, is shown from the back of the head and shoulder, dressed in a blue surgical gown, looking down toward a bright operating area.

    So glad I found Dr. Gallagher. I would not have elected to pursue my surgery had I not found a qualified and competent medical provider that I felt I could trust and have confidence in their ability to offer a high-quality, low-risk result. As a result of my initial contacts and consultations with Gallagher Plastic Surgery practice, I was willing to pursue my desired surgery and even travel half-way across the country to their offices. I’m so glad I did. The results are outstanding, more than I even anticipated. This was the 3rd practice I had dealt with and so I was learning what to look for and knew Dr. Gallagher was a good fit. The medical expertise and professionalism are what I based my decision on to proceed. They were calmly confident for a reason. I realized at the surgery event and through to the 3 week post-op checkin the excellence in their personal care (bed side manner). The office and Dr. Gallagher communicated very well. Everything went smoothly and as planned. As nervous as I was about an unnecessary surgery, Dr. Gallagher and her team were able to build enough trust that I was able to receive a very beneficial result.

    Tim F.

  • Dr. Gallagher (left), in a white lab coat, and a blonde patient (right), in a blue patterned hospital gown, smile and look up at the camera. The patient is holding up a peace sign with one hand. A piece of art with the colors of the transgender flag is visible on the wall behind them.

    Dr. Gallagher and her team are the absolute best! She completed my brachioplasty on Tuesday and when I saw the initial results at my post op appointment two days later I literally had tears of joy streaming down my face. My weight loss journey has been a road of many ups and downs, and I was so nervous about whether this surgery could even work for me. Even with the swelling that is normal after brachioplasty, there is an enormous difference, and I am still in disbelief that even this early on, my arms look this great. My husband was even in disbelief, and we’re so excited to see what I’ll look like in two weeks time. Dr. Gallagher is so kind and patient, and walked me through all of the phases of healing/expectations, and was great to call and check in. If you are looking for a highly skilled surgeon that will give you optimal results along with a compassionate approach, it is well worth your time and money to consider a consultation with her. I am forever thankful for her and for her team! This is life changing for me. Thank you, Dr. Gallagher! I appreciate you so much!

    Melissa E.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are interested in working with Dr. Gallagher at Gallagher Plastic Surgery in Miami, FL, the best first step is to schedule your consultation. Contact us at (305) 204-9598 to schedule your appointment and discover how we can help you achieve your goals today.

Dr. Gallagher frequently works with patients outside of Miami and the state of Florida. If you are interested in discussing this procedure in further detail, you can also schedule a virtual consultation with her to ask any questions you may have and learn more about proceeding with your surgery.

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