The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has achieved a major medical milestone after successfully performing a surgery that removed over 20 kilograms of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl suffering from gigantomastia a rare and severe condition that causes excessive breast growth.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 22, the Level Six referral facility confirmed that the 20.86 kilograms of tissue removed accounted for 37 percent of the girl’s total body weight believed to be the heaviest recorded globally.
“A team of dedicated surgeons and medical staff at Kenyatta National Hospital has given a 17-year-old girl the gift of a normal life,” the hospital said.
The delicate surgery, which took place on September 22, lasted 11 hours and was led by Dr Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialized Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH.
Gigantomastia, which is non-cancerous, is a rare condition characterized by the rapid and excessive growth of breast tissue. It may occur during puberty, pregnancy, as a drug reaction, or in most cases without an identifiable cause. The condition often leads to physical pain, infections, and emotional distress.
The teenager, who had lived with the condition for over 18 months, had been forced to leave school due to difficulty walking or standing.
“The weight is now over. I feel free, lighter, and ready to return to school. I can finally live the life I was meant to live and follow my dream of becoming a teacher,” the young patient said after the operation.
Speaking after the procedure, Dr Wabwire described the successful surgery as more than just a medical victory.
“This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future. Our team proved that with world-class skill and compassion, we can overcome even the most extreme medical challenges,” he said.
The surgery brought together a multidisciplinary team of local and international experts, including Professor Lew and Dr Kim from South Korea’s Yonsei University. They worked 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 Esther Munga and Eun Jin Chae led the nursing unit, providing critical support throughout the procedure.
KNH lauded the collaboration and medical expertise that made the historic surgery possible, reaffirming its commitment to advancing specialized healthcare and restoring lives.
 has achieved a major medical milestone after successfully performing a surgery that removed over 20 kilograms of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl suffering from gigantomastia a rare and severe condition that causes excessive breast growth.){kind=link}