For many women, breast cancer diagnosis brings not just a battle for survival but also a journey of rediscovery of their bodies, confidence, and identity. The Nairobi Breast Reconstruction & Aesthetics Meeting 2025, held at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) led by Dr. Anthony Kamau the Ag. Director of Clinical Services on 24th to 27th March 2025 with this year’s theme,’Bridging the Gap- Advancement Breast Reconstruction and Breast Aesthetics”, was more than just a medical camp.
It was a beacon of hope, a space where science met compassion, and where surgeons from Kenya and beyond came together to share knowledge and expertise that could change lives.
The four-day symposium brought together leading plastic and reconstructive surgeons, Oncologists, Patient advocates, and medical students to discuss cutting-edge advancements in breast reconstruction. Through live surgeries, media engagements, scientific discussions, and patient advocacy forums, the event underscored the power of reconstruction not just of bodies, but of confidence, dignity, and self-esteem.The final day of the symposium, held at the Hospital’s TRI Auditorium, was a deep dive into the science and artistry of reconstructive surgery.
It was a day of insights, shared experiences, and conversation that will shape the future of breast reconstruction in Kenya and beyond. As the morning sun lit up the auditorium, a panel of renowned plastic surgeons took to the stage, ready to share their knowledge and experiences. Their words carried not just technical expertise, but a deep understanding of what breast reconstruction truly means for a patient; a second chance, a restored sense of femininity, and an emotional healing process. Representing the CEO, KUTRRH’s Acting Director of ClinicalServices Dr. Anthony Kamau, emphasized the hospital’s dedication to improving breast cancer care in Kenya.
He highlighted the high prevalence of breast cancer among Kenyan women and the challenges of diagnosing patients at late stages. However, he noted that early detection and intervention have improved through the Comprehensive Cancer Care Centre, which is seeing more early-stage diagnoses.
Dr. Kamau stressed that breast reconstruction is not just anaesthetic procedure but an essential part of restoring self-esteem, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life for breast cancer survivors.
He affirmed that the hospital is committed to integrating reconstructive surgery into the national cancer care framework and ensuring that every woman who undergoes mastectomy has access to reconstruction, regardless of their financial hurdles.The hospital has been working towards increasing access to these services, supported by the Social Health Authority, and is investing in training more reconstructive surgeons. He also called for advocacy to expand the scope of coverage for these services through the Social Health Insurance Fund.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kamau expressed the hospital’s ambition to further expand breast reconstruction services, advocate for policy reforms, and strengthen public-private partnerships to increase resources and technology. The success of the symposium was seen not just in the number of surgeries performed
but in creating momentum for broader access to breast reconstruction care in Kenya. Dr. Nancy Van Laeken, A Clinical Professor at UBC, specializing in reconstructive plastic surgery and a member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, spoke with passion about immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
She described how, for many women, waking up from cancer surgery with their breast shape intact makes an enormous difference in their emotional and psychological recovery.She focused on, Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap procedures, where a woman’s own tissue is used to create a natural-looking breast.The importance of a multidisciplinary approach, where oncologists, plastic surgeons, and patients work together to find the best solution.How access to immediate reconstruction should be a right, not a privilege. Dr. Kirsten Marr, a specialist in microsurgical breast reconstruction from Edmonton, Canada took the audience through the meticulous techniques that make modern reconstruction possible.
She spoke on the role of microsurgery in restoring blood flow to transplanted tissue, allowing for more natural results.Lymphatic surgery and how it can reduce the risk of post-mastectomy lymphedema, a painful condition that affects many breast cancer survivors.The use of alternative flap procedures for women who may not have enough abdominal tissue for traditional reconstructions. Dr. Esther W. Gathura a Senior Instructor and Consultant in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Aga Khan University
Hospital in Nairobi, Specializing in skin cancer management,burns, hand surgery, breast reconstruction, lower limb reconstruction,and aesthetic surgery brought a different perspective to the conversation. Reconstruction isn’t just about replacing what was lost, it’s about restoring confidence and helping
women reclaim their sense of self. She spoke on,how breast reconstruction improves self-esteem
and mental well-being. The need for affordable reconstructive options in Kenya so that more women can access this life-changing surgery.
The importance of patient education, ensuring women understand their options and can make informed choices. Dr. Sarah Nyakiongora, a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at KUTRRH, specializing in breast reconstruction, aesthetic breast surgery, body contouring, and Ortho plastics championed the idea that breast reconstruction should not just restore function it should also look and feel natural.
She emphasized on:
Hybrid reconstruction techniques, which combine implantswith fat grafting for better symmetry and feel.Nipple-sparing mastectomies, which allow for more naturalresults while maintaining oncological safety.Body contouring post-reconstruction, helping women feel confident in their overall body image.
As the faculty presentations ended, the conversation shifted from theory to action. A press conference led by Dr. Kamau focused on how to improve access to reconstructive surgery for women in Kenya. Breast reconstruction isn’t just a luxury it’s part of recovery. Medical students also had their moment, engaging with faculty members in a Q&A session that bridged generations of surgeons. It was a reminder that today’s young doctors will be the ones shaping the future of reconstructive surgery in Kenya.
The Nairobi Breast Reconstruction & Aesthetics Meeting 2025 wasn’t just a symposium, it was a testament to the power of medicine, collaboration, and human resilience. It was a reminder that when science is combined with empathy, the impact goes beyond the operating room. One message stood out: Every woman deserves to feel whole again. And together, we are making that possible.