FAQs

Bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures that help with significant weight loss and the management of obesity and obesity-related health conditions. The most common procedures include gastric sleeve and gastric bypass.

Candidate suitability is determined by comprehensive clinical assessment. Generally, candidates meet the following criteria:

• BMI ≥ 35, with or without weight-related medical conditions • BMI ≥ 30, with significant obesity-related health conditions (such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or severe joint disease) • BMI ≥ 27.5 for patients of certain ethnic backgrounds with metabolic conditions, in line with international clinical guidelines • A history of unsuccessful attempts at sustained weight loss through diet and exercise alone

A personalized consultation is required so our bariatric specialist can assess your medical history, health goals, and determine the most appropriate procedure for you.

BMI is one of the primary factors evaluated when assessing suitability, but it is not viewed in isolation. In addition to BMI thresholds (typically BMI ≥ 35, or BMI ≥ 30 with associated health conditions, or BMI ≥ 27.5 for specific ethnic groups with metabolic risk), our clinical team evaluates your overall health, comorbidities, past weight-loss history, and medical fitness.

Your previous weight-loss attempts will usually be discussed during your consultation. This helps the doctor understand your weight-loss history and determine which treatment option may be most suitable for you.

The two main procedures discussed at Nairobi Bariatric Center are:

• Gastric sleeve (VSG) • Gastric bypass

Depending on your individual circumstances, other non-surgical weight-loss options may also be considered, including medications or a gastric balloon.

There is no single procedure that is best for everyone. The choice depends on factors such as:

• BMI and weight history • Acid reflux/GERD • Diabetes and metabolic health • Previous surgeries • Eating patterns • Medical history • Nutritional considerations • Your weight-loss goals

The surgeon will assess you and recommend the procedure that is most appropriate for your individual needs.

Bariatric surgery can help improve or, in some cases, put certain obesity-related health conditions into remission. These may include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and other metabolic conditions. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits based on your individual health.

Pre-operative investigations depend on your medical history and the procedure being considered. These may include blood tests, medical assessments, imaging, or a gastroscopy/endoscopy where indicated. The medical team will provide you with the required list of investigations.

Yes. Gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are generally performed under general anesthesia . An anesthetist will assess you before surgery and discuss anesthesia-related considerations with you.

Bariatric surgery is an established treatment for obesity, but like any major surgery, it carries risks. Potential complications can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, leaks, reactions to anesthesia, and other procedure-specific complications. Your surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks with you before surgery.

The length of admission depends on the procedure and your recovery. As a general guide, our patients stay approximately 2–3 days, although this can vary depending on individual clinical progress. Your surgical team will advise you on the expected duration and ensure all post-operative tests are within normal range before discharge.

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and the individual. Many patients gradually return to normal daily activities over the first few weeks. Physically demanding work and strenuous exercise may require additional recovery time. Your surgeon will provide personalized instructions.

Yes. Your diet will progress gradually after surgery, usually starting with liquids and progressing through soft foods before returning to solid foods. Long-term, you will need to focus on smaller portions, adequate protein, hydration, and nutrient-dense foods.

Yes. Long-term supplementation is generally required after bariatric surgery. The exact supplements and doses depend on the procedure, your blood results, diet, and individual nutritional needs. Regular blood tests are important to monitor for deficiencies.

Bariatric patients generally require long-term, often lifelong, vitamin and mineral supplementation . This is particularly important after gastric bypass, but supplementation is also required after gastric sleeve. Do not stop your supplements unless advised by your medical team.

Yes. Follow-up is an important part of bariatric care. Your team will monitor your weight loss, nutrition, supplementation, recovery, and any symptoms or concerns that arise.

Some weight regain can occur after surgery. Long-term follow-up, healthy eating habits, physical activity, and addressing behavioral or emotional eating can help support long-term weight management. If significant weight regain occurs, speak to your bariatric team so the cause can be assessed and appropriate support provided.

Yes, pregnancy is possible after bariatric surgery. However, it is generally recommended to wait until your weight and nutritional status have stabilized before becoming pregnant. Discuss family planning with your bariatric team.

Yes. Some patients have excess skin after significant weight loss and may consider body-contouring procedures. These may include tummy tuck, breast lift, arm lift, thigh lift, or other procedures. Most surgeons recommend waiting until your weight has been stable for at least 6–12 months, which is usually 12–18 months post-op, ensuring optimal healing and long-term aesthetic results.

Yes. International patients can begin with a virtual consultation to discuss their medical history, weight-loss goals, and treatment options. If surgery is recommended, the medical team can guide you through the necessary planning and appointments in Kenya.

The first step is to book a bariatric consultation . The consultation allows the doctor to assess your health and goals and discuss whether medication, gastric balloon, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or another approach may be suitable.

To reserve a date for surgery, we ask our patients to transfer us a small deposit. The balance is paid at our clinic after your consultation with the surgeon. We accept payment in Kenya Shillings, Euros, Pounds and US Dollars, as well as debit and credit cards (Visa and MasterCard).

Some banks have specific policies about making transactions in foreign countries. If you plan on paying with your debit or credit card, please contact your bank to make any necessary adjustments, including increasing your payment card limit if necessary.

Gastric sleeve, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) , is a surgical procedure in which approximately 70–80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. The smaller stomach limits the amount of food you can eat and also affects hunger-related hormones.

The procedure reduces the size of the stomach, allowing you to feel full with smaller portions. It also changes certain hormones involved in hunger and appetite, which can support long-term weight loss.

Weight loss varies from person to person. Many patients experience substantial weight loss, particularly during the first 12–18 months. Your results depend on factors such as starting weight, eating habits, activity levels, metabolism, medical conditions, and adherence to follow-up care. Weight-loss figures are estimates and cannot be guaranteed.

The procedure commonly takes around 1–2 hours , although the exact duration varies between patients.

Hospital stay varies depending on your recovery and the surgeon's assessment. Our patients typically stay approximately 2–3 days, ensuring you are recovering comfortably, tolerating fluids, and that all post-operative vitals are stable before discharge.

Some discomfort is expected after surgery. You may experience abdominal soreness, pressure, bloating, or discomfort, particularly during the first few days. Pain medication and appropriate post-operative care will be provided.

Recovery varies between patients. Many patients can gradually return to normal activities over the first few weeks. Those with physically demanding jobs may need more time before returning to full duties. Your surgeon will advise you based on your recovery.

This depends on your recovery and the type of work you do. Most patients with desk-based jobs return to work in 1–2 weeks, while those whose work involves heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity typically require 3–4 weeks. Your doctor will advise you when it is safe to return.

Walking and gentle movement are generally encouraged during recovery. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until your surgeon confirms that it is safe to resume them.

Your diet will progress gradually after surgery. You will typically begin with liquids and progress to soft foods before gradually returning to solid foods. Your nutrition team will guide you through each stage.

You will eventually be able to eat a variety of foods, but your portions will be much smaller. You will need to eat slowly, chew thoroughly, prioritize protein, and follow your nutrition plan.

Yes. Common supplements may include:

• Bariatric multivitamin • Calcium • Vitamin D • Vitamin B12 • Iron, where indicated

The exact supplements and doses will depend on your individual needs and blood results.

Long-term, often lifelong, supplementation is generally recommended after sleeve surgery. Regular blood tests are important to monitor your nutritional status and adjust supplementation when necessary.

Yes. Reflux can develop or worsen in some patients after sleeve surgery. If you already have significant reflux, this is an important factor for the surgeon to consider when deciding whether sleeve or bypass is more appropriate.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding • Infection • Blood clots • Gastric leak • Narrowing/stricture • Reflux • Nutritional deficiencies • Anesthesia-related complications

Your surgeon will explain the specific risks and how they are managed.

A gastric sleeve involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, so it is generally considered irreversible . This is an important consideration when choosing the procedure.

Previous abdominal surgery does not automatically prevent you from having a sleeve. However, previous operations can affect surgical planning. Your surgeon will review your history and determine whether the procedure is appropriate.

Gastric bypass, commonly known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass , creates a small stomach pouch and connects it to a lower section of the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food you can eat and changes how food passes through the digestive system. It also affects appetite and metabolic pathways involved in weight regulation.

Gastric bypass works through several mechanisms:

• Creates a smaller stomach pouch • Reduces food intake • Changes appetite-related hormones • Changes nutrient flow through the digestive system • Produces metabolic changes that support weight loss

Gastric bypass can result in significant weight loss. The amount varies between patients and depends on factors such as starting weight, eating habits, activity, medical conditions, and long-term adherence to follow-up. Your doctor will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.

Gastric bypass commonly takes around 2–3 hours , although the exact duration can vary depending on the patient and complexity of the procedure.

Our patients stay approximately 2–3 days after gastric bypass surgery. The exact length of admission depends on your recovery, mobility, and the surgeon's assessment to ensure your transition to oral liquids is smooth and safe.

Some discomfort is expected following surgery. Pain medication will be provided, and discomfort generally improves as your recovery progresses.

Recovery varies from person to person. You will gradually increase your activity over the first few weeks and should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until you have been cleared by your surgical team.

This depends on your recovery and your type of work. Patients with desk-based jobs or light duties often return to work in 1–2 weeks, while those with physically demanding jobs or heavy lifting may require 3–4 weeks. Your surgeon will advise you on when it is appropriate to return.

Your diet will progress gradually after surgery, beginning with liquids and progressing through soft foods before returning to solid foods. You will need to follow the nutrition plan provided by your bariatric team.

You will eventually be able to eat a variety of foods, but your portions will remain much smaller. You will need to eat slowly, chew well, prioritize protein, and avoid foods that cause discomfort or interfere with your nutritional goals.

Yes. Because gastric bypass changes nutrient absorption, lifelong supplementation and regular blood monitoring are particularly important. Supplements may include:

• Bariatric multivitamin • Calcium • Vitamin D • Vitamin B12 • Iron • Other vitamins or minerals depending on your blood results

Because part of the small intestine is bypassed, your body may absorb fewer nutrients from food. Without appropriate supplementation and monitoring, nutritional deficiencies can develop.

Dumping syndrome can occur after gastric bypass when food moves too quickly from the stomach pouch into the small intestine. Symptoms may include nausea, abdominal cramps, sweating, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or diarrhea, particularly after certain meals. Following the recommended dietary guidelines can help reduce the risk.

Gastric bypass can be beneficial for some patients with significant reflux and may be considered when reflux is an important part of the patient's medical history. The surgeon will assess your symptoms and determine whether bypass is appropriate.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding • Infection • Blood clots • Leaks • Ulcers • Bowel obstruction • Dumping syndrome • Nutritional deficiencies • Anesthesia-related complications

Your surgeon will discuss the risks specific to your situation.

Gastric bypass can technically be revised or reversed in certain circumstances, but reversal is a complex procedure and is not considered routine. It should therefore be considered a long-term surgical decision.

Yes, some weight regain can occur. Long-term follow-up, healthy eating habits, physical activity, and addressing behavioral or emotional eating are important for maintaining results. If you experience significant weight gain, speak to your bariatric team for assessment and support.

Yes. After significant weight loss, some patients have excess skin and may consider procedures such as tummy tuck, breast lift, arm lift, or thigh lift. Most surgeons recommend waiting until your weight has been stable for at least 6–12 months, which is usually 12–18 months post-op, and ensuring your nutritional status is fully optimized before proceeding.

Neither procedure is automatically better for everyone. Sleeve may be suitable for patients who would benefit from a procedure that does not involve intestinal bypass. Bypass may be particularly beneficial for selected patients with significant reflux or certain metabolic conditions. The surgeon will assess your individual health, goals, and medical history before recommending the most appropriate procedure. IMPORTANT NOTE This FAQ provides general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Every patient's weight, medical history, anatomy, nutritional needs, and goals are different. The appropriate procedure, investigations, supplements, recovery plan, and follow-up schedule will be determined by the medical team based on the individual patient.

Weight-loss psychotherapy focuses on the thoughts, habits, emotions and behaviours that can influence eating and weight management. The programme combines psychotherapy, self-monitoring and practical habit-change strategies to help patients develop healthier and more sustainable eating behaviours.

The programme is designed for people who want to better understand and change the habits and behaviours that may be affecting their eating and weight. It may be particularly helpful for people who struggle with emotional eating, eating in response to stress or boredom, repeated dieting, difficulty maintaining healthy habits, or weight regain. Suitability is assessed as part of the initial consultation.

No. You do not need to have a diagnosed psychological condition to benefit from weight-loss psychotherapy. The programme focuses on understanding your relationship with food and developing practical skills and habits that support long-term weight management.

Yes. Weight-loss psychotherapy is not limited to patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. It can form part of a broader weight-management plan, depending on your individual needs and clinical assessment.

Traditional diets often focus mainly on what and how much you eat. Weight-loss psychotherapy also explores why you eat, including habits, triggers, emotions, thoughts and behaviours that can make weight management difficult. The goal is to help you develop skills and habits that can be maintained beyond a temporary diet.

The core programme is structured as a 3-month course with weekly group psychotherapy sessions led by a specialist, and monthly progress reviews conducted by Dr. Shchukina. In addition, patients complete at-home audio sessions (recommended for 9 to 12 months for long-term habit consolidation) and self-monitoring activities. (Individual 1-on-1 psychotherapy is available as a separate package).

Group sessions focus on understanding eating behaviours, identifying patterns and triggers, and developing practical strategies for healthier habits. The sessions are guided by a specialist and provide a supportive environment where participants can learn and work through common challenges.

No. Individual psychotherapy is offered as a separate package from the 3-month group psychotherapy programme. The group programme includes weekly group psychotherapy sessions, alongside the other components of the weight-management programme. Patients who would benefit from one-on-one psychotherapy can enquire about the separate individual therapy package, which is structured according to their individual needs.

The audio sessions are guided exercises designed to reinforce the concepts and techniques introduced during the programme. They are completed at home to support subconscious habit re-wiring. While the group course lasts 3 months, Dr. Shchukina recommends continuing daily audio sessions for 9 to 12 months to solidify long-term habit maintenance and prevent relapse.

Patients should plan for the weekly group psychotherapy session, as well as time for the recommended audio sessions and self-monitoring activities such as keeping a food diary. The exact requirements will be explained as part of the programme onboarding.

Yes. Keeping a food diary is a required part of the programme. It allows our nutrition team to monitor your eating patterns, progress and adherence to your personalized nutrition plan and helps them provide ongoing guidance and support throughout your weight-loss journey. Your food diary also helps the team identify patterns or challenges that may be affecting your progress, so they can provide more personalized recommendations where needed.

The programme focuses on sustainable behaviour change rather than simply placing patients on a restrictive diet. Your nutritional needs and eating plan will be discussed as part of your overall weight-management care.

No single food is automatically prohibited as part of the psychotherapy approach. Instead, the programme focuses on understanding eating patterns, practising self-monitoring and developing healthier, sustainable choices.

Progress may be monitored through participation and attendance, food diary and other self-monitoring activities, weight checks and regular review of how well you are applying the strategies discussed during the programme. Your care team can use this information to identify areas where additional support may be helpful.

Consistency is an important part of the programme. If you are unable to attend a session, please inform the team as soon as possible so they can advise you on the next steps and help you stay on track.

Struggling with behaviour change is a normal part of the process. Rather than viewing setbacks as failure, the programme can help you understand what contributed to the difficulty and identify practical ways to move forward. If you are finding any part of the programme difficult, speak to your care team.

Following the 3-month programme, you will receive clear guidance on the next stage of your care, including recommended long-term audio practice (recommended for 9 to 12 months), continued self-monitoring, review appointments and ongoing support available through Nairobi Bariatric Center.

Yes. An initial consultation helps the clinical team understand your weight-management history, current health, eating patterns and individual needs so that the most appropriate treatment approach can be recommended.

The clinical team will determine whether any medical or other assessments are needed based on your individual history and current health. If you have previous relevant medical reports or test results, you may be asked to bring or share them during your assessment.

The 3-month psychotherapy course is Ksh. 42,000. Patients should confirm what is included in the package before enrolment.

Start by booking a psychotherapy consultation with Nairobi Bariatric Center. During the consultation, the team can assess your needs, explain the programme and guide you through the next steps.

We will provide you with an easy to follow dietary regime to best prepare you for the treatment. No fasting is necessary prior to a treatment, and the few dietary adjustments we recommend will greatly enhance the programme’s results.

It is advisable to refrain from eating or drinking anything two hours prior to your scheduled appointment. This is to avoid feelings of nausea, as well as ensuring maximum comfort during your Bowel irrigation session.

Bowel irrigation is not a cure, but a valuable procedure used to assist the body for a wide variety of different colon-related conditions. By re-toning the bowel wall and improving colon functions, the entire body is able to function more efficiently.

We offer a bespoke treatment plan best suited to the individual’s condition and needs. Please refer to treatment programmes section.

We offer a range of cosmetic and body-contouring procedures, which may include:

• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) • Liposuction • Breast lift (mastopexy) • Breast reduction • Breast augmentation • Arm lift (brachioplasty) • Thigh lift • Body lift • Mommy makeover procedures • Fat transfer procedures, where appropriate • Combination procedures, depending on your health, goals, and suitability

The procedures recommended will depend on your individual anatomy, medical history, and desired outcome.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and may tighten separated or weakened abdominal muscles.

It is particularly useful for patients who have loose abdominal skin following significant weight loss, pregnancy, or changes in body composition.

Liposuction primarily removes localized deposits of fat and is used for body contouring.

A tummy tuck removes excess loose skin and can tighten the abdominal muscles in addition to removing some excess fat.

If you have both excess fat and significant loose skin, your surgeon may recommend a combination of procedures.

Liposuction is not a weight-loss treatment. It is a body-contouring procedure designed to remove localized fat deposits and improve body shape.

Patients should ideally be at or near a stable weight before undergoing liposuction.

Yes, depending on your individual situation.

If the main concern is localized abdominal fat with relatively good skin elasticity, liposuction may be considered.

If there is significant loose or hanging skin, a tummy tuck may be more appropriate.

A consultation is necessary to determine which option is suitable for you.

Weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic/semaglutide are not targeted-fat injections.

They work systemically to support overall weight loss, rather than being injected into a particular area to burn fat specifically there.

If your concern is localized belly fat, a cosmetic body-contouring procedure may be more appropriate.

Yes. A breast lift can be performed without implants.

A breast lift reshapes and raises the existing breast tissue and removes excess skin. Implants are only considered if additional volume or fullness is desired and you are medically suitable.

In some patients, a breast lift may be combined with fat transfer to add volume or improve shape.

This depends on the amount of available donor fat, your breast anatomy, your goals, and your overall suitability for the procedure.

The surgeon will assess you and recommend the safest approach.

Generally, suitable candidates should:

• Be in reasonably good overall health • Have realistic expectations • Have a stable weight • Be medically fit for surgery and anesthesia • Be willing to follow pre- and post-operative instructions • Understand the potential risks and recovery involved

For patients who have undergone significant weight loss, it is usually preferable for weight to have stabilized before body-contouring surgery.

Yes. Many patients consider body-contouring surgery after significant weight loss.

Procedures such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, thigh lifts, breast surgery, and body lifts can help address excess skin that remains after weight loss.

The timing of surgery depends on your weight stability, nutritional status, health, and the extent of excess skin.

There is no single timeline that applies to everyone.

Your weight should generally be stable, and you should have recovered adequately from your bariatric procedure. Your nutritional status also needs to be optimized because deficiencies can affect healing.

Your surgeon will assess your individual situation and advise you on the appropriate timing.

Sometimes, yes.

Certain procedures can be safely combined in selected patients. However, combining surgeries can increase operating time and may increase the risks associated with surgery.

The surgeon will determine which combinations are appropriate based on your health, surgical goals, and safety.

A Mommy Makeover generally refers to a combination of cosmetic procedures designed to address changes in the abdomen, breasts, and other areas following pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The exact combination varies from patient to patient and may include procedures such as:

• Tummy tuck • Liposuction • Breast lift • Breast augmentation • Breast reduction

A consultation is required to determine the appropriate combination.

The duration depends on the procedure and whether multiple procedures are performed together.

For example, a straightforward procedure may take less time than a combination of several body-contouring procedures.

Your surgeon will provide an estimated operating time during your consultation.

Hospital stay varies depending on the procedure, the extent of surgery, and your recovery.

Some procedures may require a shorter stay, while more extensive surgery or combination procedures may require longer monitoring.

Your surgical team will advise you on the expected admission period before your procedure.

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and the individual.

You may experience swelling, bruising, discomfort, and restricted movement during the initial recovery period.

Most patients require time away from work and strenuous activities, with the exact duration depending on the procedure and the nature of their work.

Your surgeon will give you specific recovery and activity instructions.

Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are usually restricted during the early recovery period.

Light movement and walking are often encouraged as part of recovery, but you should follow your surgeon's specific instructions.

You should not resume strenuous exercise until you have been cleared by your surgical team.

Plastic surgery can significantly reduce excess skin, but the amount that can safely be removed depends on your anatomy, skin quality, previous surgeries, and overall health.

The surgeon will explain what can realistically be achieved during your consultation.

Yes. Procedures that remove skin require surgical incisions, so scarring is expected.

The surgeon will place incisions as discreetly as possible, and scars generally change and mature over time.

Scar appearance varies from person to person and depends on factors such as genetics, skin type, healing, and aftercare.

The removed fat and skin do not simply grow back, but the results can be affected by significant weight changes, pregnancy, aging, and lifestyle factors.

Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results.

As with any surgery, plastic surgery carries potential risks.

These may include:

• Bleeding • Infection • Blood clots • Fluid collection (seroma) • Poor wound healing • Changes in sensation • Scarring • Asymmetry • Anesthesia-related complications • Need for additional treatment or revision

Your surgeon will discuss the risks specific to your procedure before surgery.

Your surgical team will provide individualized instructions.

Preparation may include:

• Medical assessment • Blood tests and other investigations where required • Reviewing your medications and supplements • Maintaining appropriate nutrition • Avoiding smoking • Following instructions regarding fasting before surgery • Arranging transportation and support during recovery

It is important to follow all instructions provided by your medical team.

Depending on your medical history, age, procedure, and overall health, the doctor may request blood tests or other investigations before surgery.

These help assess your fitness for surgery and identify any issues that need to be addressed beforehand.

It is generally preferable to undergo body-contouring surgery once your weight has stabilized.

If you are still actively losing a significant amount of weight, further weight loss may change the amount and distribution of excess skin.

Your surgeon can advise you on the best timing.

Previous surgery does not automatically exclude you from plastic surgery.

However, previous operations can affect scar tissue, blood supply, and surgical planning.

You should inform the surgeon about all previous surgeries during your consultation.

Yes, a virtual consultation may be possible as an initial step, particularly for patients who are travelling from outside Nairobi or from another country.

The doctor may still require an in-person assessment before confirming the final surgical plan.

The cost depends on:

• The procedure being performed • Whether one or multiple procedures are required • Complexity of the surgery • Hospital and theatre requirements • Anesthesia • Length of admission • Follow-up requirements • Any additional investigations or treatments required

A personalized quotation can be provided after assessment and confirmation of the recommended procedure.

The best procedure depends on what you want to achieve and your individual anatomy.

For example:

Mainly localized fat → Liposuction may be considered. Loose abdominal skin → Tummy tuck may be considered. Loose skin after major weight loss → Body-contouring procedures may be considered. Breast sagging → Breast lift may be considered. Breast volume concerns → Breast augmentation or fat transfer may be considered.

The surgeon will assess you and recommend the safest and most appropriate option.

During your consultation, the doctor will discuss:

• Your aesthetic goals • Medical and surgical history • Current weight and weight stability • Areas you would like addressed • Previous procedures • Medications and supplements • Your suitability for surgery • Recommended procedure(s) • Expected results • Recovery • Potential risks and complications • Follow-up requirements • Estimated costs

You will also have an opportunity to ask questions before making a decision.

Not necessarily, but your surgeon may recommend reaching a healthier or more stable weight before certain procedures.

This can improve safety and may also produce a better body-contouring result.

Your recommended target will depend on your individual circumstances.

Plastic surgery and weight-loss treatments serve different purposes.

Weight-loss treatments such as bariatric surgery or weight-loss medications are intended to help with overall weight management.

Plastic surgery is primarily focused on body contouring, including removing excess skin or localized fat and improving body shape.

If you have excess weight as well as excess skin or localized fat, your doctor may recommend addressing weight management first.

It is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, tightness, and discomfort during the initial recovery period.

You will receive instructions regarding wound care, medications, compression garments where applicable, diet, movement, bathing, exercise, and follow-up appointments.

Contact the medical team promptly if you experience symptoms that concern you.

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop symptoms such as:

• Difficulty breathing • Chest pain • Severe or rapidly worsening swelling • Heavy bleeding • High fever • Severe or worsening pain • Fainting • Significant wound problems • Other symptoms that your surgical team has advised you to report urgently

Do not wait for a routine follow-up if you are experiencing potentially serious symptoms.

Yes. Follow-up is an important part of your recovery.

Your surgical team will monitor healing, wounds, swelling, and your overall recovery and advise you when it is safe to return to normal activities.

The appropriate time to travel depends on the procedure, your recovery, the length of the journey, and your individual risk factors.

Long-distance travel shortly after major surgery may increase certain risks, including blood clots.

Your surgeon should clear you for travel before you leave Kenya.

Pregnancy may still be possible after a tummy tuck, but pregnancy can stretch the abdominal tissues again and may affect the cosmetic results.

If you are planning a future pregnancy, discuss this with your surgeon before proceeding.

The ability to breastfeed after breast surgery varies depending on the procedure and the surgical technique used.

If future breastfeeding is important to you, discuss this with your surgeon before surgery so this can be considered during planning.