Major breakthrough as KNH surgeons remove record 20.86kg breast tissue from a teenager
By David Nthua, October 22, 2025The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has celebrated a historic medical breakthrough after successfully performing what is believed to be the world’s largest breast reduction surgery.
Through a press statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the facility stated that its team of specialists had removed 20.86 kilograms of breast tissue from a teenage girl suffering from a rare medical condition known as gigantomastia.
According to KNH, the 11-hour operation marked a major step forward for Kenya’s medical field, showcasing the hospital’s growing ability to handle complex, world-class procedures locally.
“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 a teenager who suffered from a severe and rare condition known as gigantomastia,” the KNH statement reads in part.
Life-Changing Surgery
The surgery was led by Benjamin Wabwire, the Head of Specialised Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KNH.
He described the operation as not just a medical success, but a human story of courage and hope.
“This was more than a surgical success; it was the restoration of a young woman’s dignity and future,” Wabwire said.
“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 hospital revealed that the procedure involved a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, anaesthetists, and nurses from Kenya and South Korea’s Yonsei University.
The operation, which lasted more than 11 hours, relieved the young patient of a condition that had caused severe pain, skin infections, and emotional distress for over a year.
KNH Marks Global Medical Milestone
Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Richard Lesiyampe praised the team for their professionalism and innovation.
“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-centred care,” the statement continues.
The teenager has since been discharged and is recovering well at home, with doctors describing her prognosis as excellent.
KNH concluded that the groundbreaking achievement highlights its role as a centre of excellence in Africa, where expertise, compassion, and innovation come together to restore dignity, hope, and health.