Lydia Wanjiru has weighed in on the dangers of cosmetic surgery following the reported death of Nigerian socialite Elena Jessica, after complications linked to a Brazilian Butt Lift.
The Kenyan influencer reacted to the tragedy on social media, sharing her thoughts from the perspective of someone who previously underwent a similar cosmetic procedure.
Wanjiru revealed that she had a BBL done last year and therefore understands both the appeal and risks associated with such surgeries.
While expressing sadness over Jessica’s passing, Wanjiru also addressed the intense online debate that followed the incident.
According to her, deaths that occur during cosmetic procedures should not automatically lead to blanket condemnation of the surgeries themselves.
“People die in floods, others sleep and die, others on theatre tables; it does not have to be via cosmetic surgery,” she said in part.
Wanjiru explained that one of the major causes of deaths during or after procedures like BBLs is the failure by some patients to properly research the clinics and doctors performing the surgeries.
Sharing her personal experience, she said she carried out extensive due diligence before undergoing her procedure in Nairobi.
“When I was looking to do my procedures, I really did my due diligence. I went for consultations, met the doctors, checked how well-equipped the hospital was because, in case of an emergency, how would they take care of you?” she explained.
The influencer added that it was important to assess whether the facility had enough qualified staff and adequate medical equipment to handle complications that might arise during surgery.
According to Wanjiru, many individuals seeking cosmetic procedures such as liposuction or BBLs sometimes rush into them without sufficient research. In some cases, she said, people opt for cheaper clinics that may not meet proper safety standards.
Her remarks sparked mixed reactions online, with some netizens agreeing with her stance on the importance of research, while others raised broader concerns about the risks associated with the growing trend of body enhancement procedures.