Kenyan women turn to cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery is steadily gaining popularity in Kenya, with medical experts reporting that nearly 90 percent of patients seeking such procedures are women.

From breast lifts and body contouring to non-surgical weight-loss procedures, more women are turning to cosmetic treatments for health, confidence, and appearance-related reasons.

Inside a Nairobi-based surgical clinic during the launch of Kenya’s first plastic and reconstructive surgery, longevity, aesthetics and regenerative medicine hospital, I met with Fatma Swaleh who did an intragastric balloon which is a temporary silicone balloon placed inside the stomach to assist with weight loss by reducing food intake.

Swaleh who did the procedure in March this year says she is happy about her progress adding that she has lost about 13Kgs in a period of two months.

“This notion that people think gastric balloon is a shortcut to weight loss, it isn’t at all, it is even harder than going to the gym, while you have the balloon inside you, you need to work out and eat healthy” Explained Fatma

At the same time Swaleh says the gastric balloon in her stomach will dissolve after four to five months and that if you don’t make the lifestyle change you will regain the weight therefore one has to be determined with the weight loss journey.

The minimally invasive procedure, which does not require major surgery, is increasingly attracting women and men struggling with obesity and related health conditions in the country.

While some women are pursuing cosmetic procedures for weight management, others are seeking surgery to restore body shape and confidence.

Anne Mwaura is set for a breast lifting procedure after years of struggling with discomfort.

“I have thought about this for a long time and I have done a lot of research; I genuinely want to do this to make me happy” she says while laughing

She adds that she will be happy to move a cap A -C bra or even A- D and that before undergoing such procedure it important to take the right doctor who will advise you on the safety of the procedure.

Mwaura rather warn girls under 25 years of again against undergoing such procedures saying they should take time to do their research properly on why they should do it, is it for yourself or for a man.

According to Dr. Pranav Pancholi a cosmetic dermatologist breast lifting procedures, medically known as mastopexy, are becoming more common among women seeking to restore breast shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss.

Dr. Pancholi lists Brazilian butt lift (BBL), breast reduction or enlargement, neck lifts as the most common procedures that women seek in the country.

“Back in the day plastic surgery uses to be something that people never used to talk about it, they were shy but they freely talk about it, they discuss among friends we get a lot of referrals,” said Dr Pancholi

According to plastic surgeon Dr. Shaban Saidi, nearly 90 percent of patients seeking cosmetic procedures in Kenya are women, with many looking for treatments aimed at improving appearance, restoring body shape, or boosting self-confidence.

However, Dr. Saidi cautions that cosmetic procedures should only be performed by trained and licensed professionals due to potential risks such as infections, complications, and poor outcomes.

“Cosmetic surgery should be a personal and informed decision, patients need proper medical evaluation, counseling, and realistic expectations” Saidi explained.

As demand continues to grow, hospitals and private clinics are expanding cosmetic and reconstructive services, reflecting changing attitudes toward beauty, wellness, and self-image in Kenya.