Just a few years ago, Kenya had only a handful of plastic surgeons. But driven by a growing demand for procedures like tummy tucks, butt lifts, and lip fillers - fueled in part by social media influencers showcasing their results - more doctors are now specialising in this field.
Today, Kenya boasts around 32 registered plastic surgeons, and the president of the Kenya Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Prof. Fernando Nangole, expects another nine new specialists to join the profession soon. "This is a positive development," he says, "as there has been a marked increase in people seeking cosmetic surgery to achieve what they consider the ideal body."
However, amid this booming industry, a concerning trend has emerged - the proliferation of unregulated medical spas opening up across the country. This raises serious concerns about patient safety and the quality of care provided.
The risks of botched cosmetic procedures can be dire, as tragically demonstrated by the recent death of Lucy Wambui in late October. Wambui reportedly experienced severe complications after undergoing a cosmetic treatment at a Nairobi clinic called Omnicare, operating as "Body By Design." The facility, now closed by the ministry, is alleged to have failed to meet essential medical protocols.
Following this devastating incident, the Ministry of Health announced a nationwide crackdown on clinics offering plastic surgery without proper licensing or safety standards in place. "We want to give a warning to other facilities operating with substandard conditions - they should close before we force them to," said Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards.
The ministry's strong action underscores the urgent need to regulate this booming industry and protect patient safety. With more Kenyans seeking cosmetic enhancements, ensuring the highest standards of care at licensed, qualified facilities has become paramount.
Ensuring qualifications and safety
Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Prof. Nang’ole Wanjala.
Photo credit: Lucy Wanjiru | Nation
Prof. Nangole emphasises that patients must ensure any surgeon they choose is certified. "For someone to be a plastic surgeon, they must undergo formal training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. After earning a medical degree, they must complete an additional five years of specialised training, typically offered at the University of Nairobi, followed by a one-year supervised practice."
Only after these steps are completed does the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) grant certification, allowing them to practice as plastic and reconstructive surgeons. "The KMPDC is the only regulatory body mandated by law to oversee the certification and licensing of cosmetic surgeons in Kenya," Prof. Nangole explains.
Patients should also verify that the facility where the procedure is to be performed is fully licensed by the KMPDC. "For any hospital to offer cosmetic or plastic surgical procedures, they must meet certain requirements inspected by the KMPDC. The facility must have a registered plastic surgeon on staff and pass a thorough checklist to ensure it is ready to handle these surgeries."
The allure of cosmetic enhancement
Cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic surgery, covers a broad field aimed at enhancing physical appearance. "Cosmetic surgery focuses on improving beauty and self-image, which has proven psychological benefits because people satisfied with their looks tend to be more productive and have a positive outlook on life," says Prof. Nangole.
This increasing demand for cosmetic procedures can be attributed to various factors, including the influence of global trends and the financial empowerment of Kenya's middle class. "Our middle class is expanding, and we now have people who are more financially independent and willing to invest in themselves," Prof. Nangole points out. "Women, in particular, have become financially empowered and are making decisions about their appearance."
One of the people who sees the benefit of body enhancement is 24-year-old businesswoman Grace Omutsani.
Omutsani Grace an Airbnb host during the interview in Kiambu on November 4, 2024.
Photo credit: Lucy Wanjiru | Nation
Grace, who operates an Airbnb business decided on a transformative journey to achieve her desired look, choosing to undergo a liposuction and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure. However, it came at a steep cost, totalling approximately Sh800,000, and with ongoing aftercare, she estimates her expenses might even double.
For her, it was worth every cent.
“When I decided to do this, I was looking at the end goal, as we all do,” she says. “You go to work because you know you will be paid in a month, right? It is the same for me in this case, putting in the effort now for the results I want in a few months.
Five weeks into recovery, Ms Omutsani attests to see daily changes that affirm her decision. “I am feeling great,” she says. “Yes, I knew it is among the most painful procedures, but as you can see me now, I am okay.”
The journey, she admits, has not been without its emotional highs and lows. “The changes are there,” she says.
“One day, you wake up feeling very depressed. Another day, you feel happy.” This fluctuation is all part of the healing process, she explains, as initial swelling gives way to the body’s new shape. “When I woke up from the surgery, I was double this size. I was so happy, but five days later, I started to shrink. I thought, ‘What did I do? I wasted my money!’ But then I started seeing progress every day, my waist reduced by an inch almost daily because, before the surgery, my waist was 32 inches; now, it is 27.”
Through her social media, Ms. Omutsani has shared every step, from the operating room to her candid reflections on the challenges of recovery. Why, I prod? "Immediately I woke up from the surgery in so much pain, I felt the need to show people what actually happens," she says. "When we go on social media, we often see these perfect bodies, but nobody shows you the hard part. So, I took my camera, and that was the start.”
Her openness, however, has drawn mixed reactions, with some suggesting her posts were an attempt to gain fame, but Ms Omutsani disagrees, saying, “I have been on the socials even before the surgery; people know me on TikTok. If anything, they expect honesty from me.”
“I wanted people to understand the reality. It is important for me that people see both the good and the challenging parts.”
On the other hand, her family’s response was initially mixed, especially given how raw and revealing her videos have been. “At first, they thought it was too much,” she says. “But then, after they saw the positive feedback, they are very supportive. My mom, especially, was so proud. People were grateful that I shared the real journey.”
Ms. Omutsani believes this experience has bolstered her confidence, though she reveals she is still on the path to complete healing. “This is not the final outcome,” she says with a smile. “But yes, it has given me confidence. I can wear what I want, there are some clothes that I wanted to fit me in a certain way like they do now.’’
When asked if she would pursue additional procedures in the future, she remains realistic. “This is not like getting tattoos where you keep going back. For example, my doctor removed the fat cells, so my waist will likely never go back to its original size, even if I gain weight or I get pregnant.”
With her new body comes a commitment to better nutrition as well “They call it ‘feeding the fats,’” she laughs. “I eat a lot of healthy proteins white meat, avocado, nuts which for now, it is important to support my healing."
Prof. Nangole says that the availability of more qualified plastic surgeons in Kenya has also made these procedures more accessible. "Years ago, there were very few of us, but now, thanks to local training programmes, there are more qualified surgeons to meet the demand," he explains as he puts their figure at 32.
While most cosmetic surgeries have positive outcomes, Prof. Nangole acknowledges that complications can occasionally occur. "Even a routine injection can sometimes cause a reaction. Although rare, complications are an inherent part of any surgical procedure."
Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Kenyatta National Hospital, emphasises the importance of thorough pre-surgery evaluations. "There is a standard way in which we evaluate patients, both for the suitability of the procedure and the associated risks," he says. This assessment goes beyond medical history, considering lifestyle, physical health, and the patient's overall goals.
Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Consultant General & Plastic Surgeon.
Photo credit: Lucy Wanjiru | Nation
"A lot of people think cosmetic surgery is for anyone, but rigorous screening is essential," Dr. Wabwire adds. He warns that untrained practitioners may skip these checks, putting patients at unnecessary risk.
The increase in unregulated clinics offering cosmetic services is a pressing concern. Dr. Wabwire says this could be partly attributed to a lack of enforcement, as "there is a tendency for business-oriented clinics to overlook regulations."
To address this issue, Dr. Wabwire proposes a centralised registry that would link clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies, ensuring that only licensed facilities offer cosmetic procedures. "If we had a system where all licensed facilities were interconnected, it would ensure patients get the right consultation," he explains.
Transparency is also crucial, as many patients prefer secluded environments to avoid public scrutiny. "If people were open about their decisions, they might be less likely to end up in the hands of unqualified practitioners," Dr. Wabwire suggests.
As the demand for cosmetic enhancement continues to rise in Kenya, striking a balance between beauty and safety remains a critical challenge. Experts reckon that with proper regulation, qualified practitioners, and informed patient choices, the industry can thrive while prioritising the well-being of those seeking to enhance their appearance.
What you need to know about plastic surgery in Kenya
What qualifications do plastic surgeons in Kenya need? "For someone to be a plastic surgeon, they must undergo formal training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. After earning a medical degree, they must complete an additional five years of specialised training, typically offered at the University of Nairobi, followed by a one-year supervised practice," says Prof. Fernando Nangole.How can patients verify if a clinic is licensed to perform cosmetic procedures? "For any hospital to offer cosmetic or plastic surgical procedures, they must meet certain requirements inspected by the KMPDC. The facility must have a registered plastic surgeon on staff and pass a thorough checklist to ensure it is ready to handle these surgeries," explains Prof. Nangole.Can cosmetic surgeries be reversed? "Breast augmentations are reversible. We have actually removed quite a few," says Dr. Benjamin Wabwire. "However, certain procedures, like tummy tucks, are permanent. Once a tummy tuck is done, it is done."Who may not be suitable candidates for cosmetic surgery? "Those with unstable blood pressure, heart issues, or certain medication histories may be at higher risk. Conditions such as poor kidney function could increase the likelihood of complications," cautions Dr. Wabwire.Why have unregulated cosmetic clinics been on the rise? "There is a tendency for business-oriented clinics to overlook regulations," says Dr. Wabwire. "Many patients also prefer secluded environments where they can avoid public scrutiny, which can lead them to unlicensed practitioners who promise anonymity."
