That persistent hump at the base of your neck can affect your posture, your profile, and your confidence in everything from collared shirts to updos. Buffalo hump removal uses targeted liposuction to eliminate the dorsocervical fat pad quickly and effectively, restoring a smooth, natural neckline and freeing you from years of self-consciousness.
What Is Buffalo Hump Removal?
Dorsocervical fat pad removal targets the fatty deposit that accumulates at the base of the neck and upper back, creating a visible rounded hump that can affect your posture, profile, and confidence. This condition can result from hormonal changes, prolonged corticosteroid use, weight gain, or genetics.
Using precise liposuction techniques, your surgeon removes the fat pad through tiny incisions, restoring a smooth neck-to-back contour. In cases with significant excess skin, a combined approach of liposuction and skin excision ensures the best possible result.
Common Concerns Buffalo Hump Removal Can Address
- Visible hump at the base of the neck and upper back
- Posture issues and neck discomfort caused by the fat deposit
- Self-consciousness about your side profile and neckline
- Difficulty wearing collared shirts, necklaces, and certain necklines
Are You a Good Candidate?
- In good general health with a persistent dorsocervical fat pad
- Non-smoker or willing to stop at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
- Realistic expectations about outcomes and committed to maintaining results through a healthy lifestyle
Techniques & Options
The size and composition of your buffalo hump determines the best approach. Your surgeon will assess whether the deposit is primarily fatty tissue or includes fibrous elements, evaluate skin elasticity over the area, and determine whether excess skin will need to be addressed after the fat is removed. Most cases respond well to liposuction alone, but larger humps may benefit from a combined approach.
There are two main techniques:
Liposuction Only
The most common approach, using small cannulas inserted through tiny incisions to suction out the fatty deposit. Ideal for moderate humps where the skin has sufficient elasticity to retract naturally after fat removal.
- Minimally invasive with incisions of just 3–5mm
- Performed under local anaesthesia with sedation
- Quick recovery with most patients resuming daily activities within days
Liposuction with Skin Excision
For larger or long-standing humps where significant skin laxity is expected after fat removal. Liposuction reduces the volume first, then excess skin is carefully excised and closed to ensure a smooth, flat contour.
- Addresses both fat volume and loose skin in one procedure
- Ensures a smooth, flat result even with larger deposits
- Incisions are placed discreetly along natural skin lines
- Ideal for patients with reduced skin elasticity
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the treatment area are normal and expected. You'll wear a compression garment around your neck and upper back. Your care coordinator will check in daily to monitor your progress.
Week 1–2
Swelling reduces noticeably and bruising fades. Most patients feel well enough to return to light daily activities and desk work within 5–7 days. You'll attend a follow-up appointment before flying home.
Weeks 3–4
Residual swelling continues to settle and you can gradually resume exercise, starting with light cardio. The treated area feels increasingly comfortable and your improved profile becomes apparent.
Months 2–3
Final contours emerge as all swelling resolves and the skin fully retracts. Most patients see their definitive result by 2–3 months, with a smooth, natural neck-to-back profile.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
Buffalo hump removal is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks.
- Contour irregularities or asymmetry
- Seroma or fluid accumulation
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation
- Infection at incision sites
- Recurrence if underlying cause is untreated
- Scarring (minimal with liposuction only)
Recurrence is a unique consideration with dorsocervical fat pad removal, particularly when the underlying cause is hormonal or medication-related. Your surgeon will evaluate whether contributory factors need addressing, discuss how skin elasticity over the hump affects the chosen technique, and outline monitoring steps to detect any early signs of regrowth.
How Much Does Buffalo Hump Removal Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Buffalo Hump Removal
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Buffalo Hump Removal
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDPlastic Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 18, 2026
Medical References
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individual results, recovery times, and suitability vary. Always consult a qualified surgeon before making decisions about treatment.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Ready to Get Started?
Speak with our care coordinators for a free, no-obligation consultation and personalised quote.
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