- In an event that shocked the country, "Body by Design," also known as Omnicare Medical, has recently found itself in a controversy following allegations of malpractice, which has led to the shutdown of the organisation by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) on October 31, 2024.
In an event that shocked the country, "Body by Design," also known as Omnicare Medical, has recently found itself in a controversy following allegations of malpractice, which has led to the shutdown of the organisation by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) on October 31, 2024.
This closure followed claims of botched surgeries that reportedly resulted in patient fatalities, triggering public outrage and protests, notably led by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.
“I urge the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council to inspect all such facilities nationwide to prevent further fatalities among our sisters, daughters, and mothers. Further, I urge Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to move quickly and suspend all licenses of facilities operating a similar business," Sonko said.
Some other influencers like Murugi Munyi went on to their Instagram stories to defend themselves in the case involving Lucy and the fitness brand Body by Design by addressing several claims that emerged around her involvement and the quality of services provided.
As the pressure increased, Murugi defined her role as a brand ambassador and clarified that her role was primarily to promote the brand rather than manage client expectations or oversee program outcomes. She also highlighted her positive experiences with the program, affirming her trust in their services, which she felt genuinely benefited her health and fitness goals.
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Additionally, the younger generation values appearance to the point that they are ready to undergo risky cosmetic procedures for a pleasing appearance. However, these procedures have recorded several fatalities, with the recent being that of Lucy Wambui after undergoing a cosmetic procedure at "Body and Design".
This case has caught public attention, and people yearning to get knowledge of such procedures have demanded that accountability and justice be served.
Additionally, not having an appropriate medical license, employing unlicensed medical practitioners, and failing to meet Health standards set by the Ministry of Health are some of the reasons that led the KMPDU to revoke the facilities of the facility.
After the sudden death of Lucy Wambui, services and operations of the facility have been under intensive investigation, futility cases are on the rise, and reports of results below the expectations by clients have raised alarm on the safety of cosmetic surgery in Kenya.
Body by Design has distanced itself from the claims that their institution is responsible for the death of Lucy Wambui, stating that the patient died at Nairobi Hospital. Cosmetic surgery has been gaining popularity in Kenya, with many women seeking procedures to conform to changing beauty standards influenced by social media and celebrity culture.
Liposuction and breast reduction have been standard procedures among women longing to conform with the recent beauty trends to avoid stigma and be appealing.
However, this rise in demand has coincided with a series of tragic incidents, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight in the cosmetic surgery sector.
The recent events surrounding Body by Design serve as an association with cosmetic surgery, especially in a market that is still developing regulatory frameworks. As investigations continue, many are left questioning the safety and ethics of cosmetic procedures in Kenya and the responsibilities of clinics' responsibilities.
The case underscores the need for stringent regulations to protect patients and ensure that cosmetic surgery practices are conducted safely and ethically.
