Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has made global headlines after successfully performing a groundbreaking medical operation that saw surgeons remove 20.86 kilograms of breast tissue from a teenage girl suffering from a rare condition known as gigantomastia.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe confirmed that the complex procedure was carried out on September 22, 2025, and took 11 hours to complete.
According to the hospital, the patient, Lydia Musivi, had been battling gigantomastia—a rare disorder that causes rapid and excessive breast growth. The condition had forced her to drop out of school and left her struggling with pain, mobility, and self-esteem issues.
“The weight of the tissue removed was 37 percent of her total body weight,” said Dr. Lesiyampe. “This case represents an extraordinary medical and humanitarian achievement.”
Following the successful surgery, Lydia expressed joy and relief, saying she could finally look forward to a normal life.
“The weight is now over. I feel free, lighter, and ready to return to school,” she said. “I can finally live the life I was meant to live and follow my dream of becoming a high school teacher.”
The operation was led by Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialized Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH. He described the surgery as a landmark medical moment for Kenya.
“This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future,” Dr. Wabwire said. “Our team has shown that with skill and compassion, we can overcome even the most extreme medical challenges.”
Lydia’s mother, Naomi Mutendwa, said the family’s long journey to find help began at Garissa County Referral Hospital, where doctors referred them to KNH.
“I watched my daughter disappear under the weight of the illness. It stole her confidence and her future,” she recalled. “We felt hopeless until we were referred to KNH. Today, I’m thankful that she has a second chance at life.”
Dr. Lesiyampe praised the medical team for the successful operation, saying it showcased Kenya’s growing reputation for medical excellence.
“This milestone proves that world-class medical breakthroughs are happening right here in Kenya,” he said. “We are solving local health challenges with global standards of innovation and compassion.”
Lydia has since been discharged and is recovering well at her home in Mwingi, Kitui County. She is expected to resume school in January 2026.
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