A team of dedicated surgeons and medical staff at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has given a 17-year-old girl the gift of a normal life.
In a landmark procedure believed to be the largest of its kind in the world, the team successfully removed 20.86 kilograms of breast tissue from Lydia Musilu, who suffered from a severe and rare condition known as gigantomastia.
The 11-hour surgery, performed on September 22, 2025 has freed Lydia from a debilitating condition that forced her to abandon her studies and dreams. The weight of the tissue removed was equivalent to 37% of her total body weight, a physical and emotional burden she had carried for 18 months.
Lydia’s condition caused extreme, rapid breast growth, leading to chronic pain, skin infections, and profound emotional distress. The simple act of walking and standing up straight had become a struggle, and her hope for a future was fading.
“The weight is now over. I feel free, lighter, and ready to return to school,” Lydia shared with a new-found smile.
I can finally live the life I was meant to live and follow my dream of becoming a high school teacher.”
Which KNH doctors performed world’s largest gigantomastia procedure?
The highly complex surgery was led by Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialized Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH.
He emphasized the profound human impact of the procedure.
“This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future.” Dr. Wabwire stated.
“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 renowned experts Professor Lew and Dr. Kim from South Korea’s Yonsei University, alongside KNH’s own Dr. Claire Odero, Dr. Agnes Wanjiru, and Dr. Joy Mwangi. The anaesthesia team was led by Eileen Towett and Dr. Hellen Mwari, while the nursing team, under the leadership of Ms. Esther Munga and Ms. Eun Jin Chea, provided critical care throughout Lydia’s journey.
Lydia’s path to KNH was one of a mother’s unwavering determination.
Her mother, Ms. Naomi Mutwenda, recounted their long search for help.
“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 team here saw the girl, not just the condition. They didn’t just treat her; they gave me back my daughter. They have given her a second chance at life.”
Ag. Chief Executive Officer, KNH, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, noted that this achievement is a testament to the hospital’s vision.
This milestone demonstrates that world-class medical breakthroughs are happening right here in Kenya. We are solving local health challenges with a global standard of innovation and a deeply human touch, setting new benchmarks for patient-centered care.”
Lydia has since been discharged from the hospital and is now recuperating at her home in Mwingi, Kitui County.
As she continues her recovery, she looks ahead to a bright future, with plans to rejoin her classmates and resume her education in January 2026.
This groundbreaking achievement highlights KNH’s role as a beacon of medical excellence in Africa and beyond, where expertise and empathy converge to restore dignity, hope, and health.
