In a historic medical breakthrough, a team of surgeons at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully removed a record 20.86 kilograms of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl suffering from a rare condition known as gigantomastia, in what is believed to be the world’s largest procedure of its kind.
The 11-hour surgery, conducted on September 22, 2025, has transformed the life of Lydia Musivi, who had endured excruciating pain, limited mobility, and emotional distress for more than a year and a half.
The excessive tissue had amounted to nearly 37 percent of her total body weight, forcing her to abandon school and dreams of becoming a teacher.
“The weight is now over. I feel free, lighter, and ready to return to school,” Lydia said joyfully after the operation. “I can finally live the life I was meant to live and follow my dream of becoming a high school teacher.”
The complex reconstructive surgery was led by Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialized Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH, supported by a multidisciplinary team of local and international specialists. “This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future,” said Dr. Wabwire. “Our team proved that with world-class skill and compassion, we can overcome even the most extreme medical challenges.”
The medical team also included Professor Lew and Dr. Kim from South Korea’s Yonsei University, alongside Dr. Claire Odero, Dr. Agnes Wanjiru, and Dr. Joy Mwangi from KNH. The anaesthesia team was led by Dr. Eileen Towett and Dr. Hellen Mwari, while nurses under Ms. Esther Munga and Ms. Eun Jin Chae provided round-the-clock care.
Lydia’s journey to KNH began after months of desperation. Her mother, Ms. Naomi Mutendwa, recalled being referred from Garissa County Referral Hospital after exhausting all options. “I watched my daughter disappear under the weight of this illness. The team at KNH saw the girl, not just the condition. They gave me back my daughter,” she said tearfully.
KNH’s Ag. Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, CBS, hailed the milestone as a testament to Kenya’s growing medical excellence. “This achievement shows that world-class breakthroughs are happening right here at home. We are addressing local challenges with global standards of innovation and compassion,” he said.
Now recuperating at her home in Mwingi, Kitui County, Lydia is set to return to school in January 2026. Her story has become a symbol of hope, and proof that Kenya’s leading referral hospital continues to push the boundaries of medical innovation in Africa.
“This was not just a surgery,” said Dr. Wabwire. “It was the restoration of hope, dignity, and a future.”