‘The weight is over’: KNH doctors remove 20kg of tissue from teen with rare breast condition
The removed tissue accounted for 37 per cent of her total body weight, leaving her unable to walk comfortably, attend school, or live a normal life.
Surgeons at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have performed what is believed to be the world’s largest gigantomastia surgery, successfully removing 20.86 kilograms of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl during an 11-hour operation.
The patient, Lydia Musivi, had lived with the rare condition for about 18 months. During that time, her breasts grew abnormally large, causing intense pain, recurring infections, and emotional distress.
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The removed tissue accounted for 37 per cent of her total body weight, leaving her unable to walk comfortably, attend school, or live a normal life.
According to KNH, the surgery took place on September 22, 2025, marking a significant milestone in reconstructive surgery.
The complex procedure freed Lydia from a debilitating condition that had derailed her education and dreams for the future.
Following the operation, Lydia expressed immense relief and optimism. “The weight is now over. I feel 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.”
Medical and emotional triumph
The surgery was led by Dr Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialised Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH, who described the operation as both a medical and emotional triumph.
“This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future,” said Dr Wabwire.
“Our team at KNH proved that with world-class skill and deep compassion, we can overcome even the most extreme medical challenges. We are not just treating conditions; we are transforming lives.”
The multidisciplinary team included Kenyan specialists working alongside visiting experts Professor Lew and Dr Kim from Yonsei University in South Korea.
The anaesthesia team was led by Dr Eileen Towett and Dr Hellen Mwari, while nurses Esther Munga and Eun Jin Chae provided crucial support throughout the procedure.
Months of struggle
Lydia’s mother, Naomi Mutendwa, said the family had endured months of struggle before finally being referred to KNH.
“I watched my daughter disappear under the weight of this illness. It stole her confidence and her future. We felt hopeless until we were referred to KNH from Garissa County Referral Hospital,” she said. “The doctors here didn’t just treat her; they gave me back my daughter. They have given her a second chance at life.”
KNH’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Richard Lesiyampe, hailed the successful surgery as a testament to the hospital’s growing global reputation.
“This milestone demonstrates 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 recuperating at her home in Mwingi, Kitui County. She plans to return to school in January 2026, closing a painful chapter and beginning a new one filled with renewed hope.
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