For generations, beauty standards for women have been shaped by rigid stereotypes, yet change is inevitable.
A decade ago, slender women were widely considered the crème de la crème of beauty.
Today, however, the narrative has shifted.
On platforms like Instagram, curvier women now attract more likes and positive comments, with phrases like “the body is tea” becoming common.
Importantly, the male gaze is no longer the only force influencing women’s decisions about their bodies.
Kenyan women are increasingly opting for cosmetic procedures for their satisfaction, to boost self-confidence and redefine personal standards of beauty.
The last few years have seen exponential growth in the cosmetic procedures industry.
While such procedures have long been associated with Western countries and emerging Asian markets, the World Health Organisation notes a rising uptake across Africa.
Kenya, in particular, has emerged as a leader in cosmetic surgery within East Africa, with several advanced institutions now offering world-class services to clients from across the region.
Popular procedures among Kenyan women include liposuction, tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts, breast reductions, and breast augmentations.
“For liposuction, suction technology is used to remove fat from specific areas such as the stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, or neck,” explains Dr James Were of Refine Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery Centre in Parklands.
“The procedure helps contour these areas to achieve the client’s desired appearance.”
He adds that a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, improves the shape and tone of the abdomen.
“Excess fat and skin are removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned to create a flatter, more toned look,” Dr Were says.
“Breast reduction and augmentation serve different purposes,” he continues.
“Breast reduction removes excess tissue, skin, and fat to alleviate discomfort and achieve a smaller size, while augmentation enlarges the breasts using implants filled with silicone gel or saline solution to enhance size and shape.”
The rise in cosmetic procedures in Kenya has been fueled partly by social media influencers who openly flaunt their transformations.
Unlike in the past, many now candidly discuss their cosmetic journeys with their followers.
“I’m someone who likes to keep it real, especially about my cosmetic procedures,” says Kenyan socialite and reality TV star Risper Faith.
“In 2023, I had gastric sleeve surgery to manage my weight, which had exceeded 100kg. In 2024, I did veneers and had hip dips filled. Some may think it’s too much, but I will always choose my happiness first.”
For many urban Kenyan women, however, cost remains a significant hurdle.
Fees vary widely across clinics, but even a single procedure can be prohibitively expensive.
“I’ve been planning a ‘mommy makeover’ for two years now,” one Nairobi resident shares.
“The three procedures I want cost nearly Sh1 million. But I’m determined to get them done before the end of the year.”
While the allure of cosmetic surgery is undeniable, experts warn of potential risks.
“Side effects can include scarring, infection, nerve damage, blood clots, and, in some cases, complications from anaesthesia,” cautions Dr Rebecca Muthoni of Nairobi Bariatric Centre.
As debate continues in society over the necessity of cosmetic procedures, doctors stress that any such surgery should only be performed by qualified medical professionals to minimise the risk of complications and ensure patient safety.
