As misconceptions around plastic surgery fade, a growing number of Kenyans are turning to cosmetic procedures to rejuvenate their appearance and boost self-confidence, particularly during the festive season.
Dr. Martin Ajujo, a plastic surgeon at AJ Plastic Surgery Centre, says patients seek surgery for both medical and aesthetic reasons.
“Plastic surgery can reconstruct defects present from birth or caused by accidents, burns, or infections. Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, enhances one’s appearance to make it more appealing,” Dr. Ajujo explained.
Breast surgeries remain among the most requested procedures, including reductions to relieve discomfort from overly large breasts and augmentations using fat or silicone implants.
Agatha, who underwent a breast reduction, shared her experience: “After childbearing, my breasts never returned to their normal size, causing pain and difficulty with daily chores. Plastic surgery helped me regain comfort and confidence.”
Non-invasive treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, and hair transplants are also on the rise. Once mainly for celebrities, Botox is now popular among professionals in their 30s and retirees in their 60s. “Modern Botox softens signs of ageing without freezing expressions,” Dr. Ajujo said.
Brides, grooms, and corporate professionals often seek these treatments to look refreshed for special events.
Despite growing acceptance, stigma and misinformation persist. Some still see Botox as a vanity treatment or worry about unnatural results, while others assume cosmetic procedures are only for the wealthy or foreigners.
Interestingly, international patients travel to Kenya for high-quality, cost-effective plastic surgery. Dr. Ajujo emphasized that all procedures are carried out by internationally trained surgeons in accredited facilities, ensuring both safety and excellent results.
He also warned against unqualified providers, noting risks such as droopy eyelids, uneven smiles, and infections. “Prioritizing medical precision, sterile conditions, and expert knowledge of facial anatomy is essential for natural-looking results,” he said.
For those looking to enhance their appearance this festive season, Botox treatments take as little as 15 minutes, with results visible within three to seven days and lasting up to four months.
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