The tragic death of Lucy Wambui Ng’ang’a has brought attention to the growing concerns surrounding cosmetic surgery practices in Kenya. Ng’ang’a, who passed away on October 26, 2024, due to complications following a combined 360-degree liposuction and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure, has prompted a national debate on the safety and regulation of cosmetic surgery in the country.
Ng’ang’a underwent the procedure at Body By Design clinic in Nairobi, but shortly after, she began experiencing severe complications, including respiratory distress and abdominal pain. Despite these alarming symptoms, she was discharged from the clinic. Her condition worsened, leading to emergency surgery at Nairobi Hospital. Tragically, she succumbed to severe sepsis and peritonitis four days later.
In response to the incident, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) swiftly intervened, ordering the immediate closure of Body By Design and launching a nationwide inspection of cosmetic surgery facilities. The KMPDC’s actions aim to ensure that clinics adhere to stringent health and safety standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The death of Ng’ang’a has sparked widespread conversation on social media, where influencers have begun sharing their own cosmetic surgery experiences. Risper Faith, a popular influencer who has undergone multiple procedures, including dental veneers, hair transplants, and body contouring, has spoken out on the issue. Faith, who emphasizes the importance of personal choice in body enhancements, also advocates for better oversight of the cosmetic surgery industry. She highlights that appearance plays a crucial role in the influencer market, with brands often seeking individuals with certain aesthetic standards. However, she stresses that her personal choices should not be seen as a blanket endorsement of surgery, urging others to carefully consider their options.
Faith encourages potential cosmetic surgery candidates to conduct thorough research and consult with professionals before making decisions. Another influencer, Phoina Tosha, who had previously undergone liposuction at the same clinic, has refrained from commenting on the situation, with her management stating that she is not ready to speak out.
The legal implications of Ng’ang’a’s death are also unfolding, as Omnicare Medical, the parent company of Body By Design, challenges the KMPDC’s closure order. Legal representatives for Omnicare argue that the clinic is equipped with modern medical technology and staffed by qualified professionals, maintaining that all procedural protocols were followed and that Ng’ang’a underwent appropriate pre-operative screening.
As the investigation continues, the case has underscored the need for heightened scrutiny and regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry in Kenya.
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