Kenyatta National Hospital performs another major facial reconstruction surgery
By Mabonga Makhanu, October 28, 2025Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has successfully carried out its second facial reconstruction surgery, marking another milestone in its continued commitment to advanced medical innovation and reconstructive care.
The operation follows an earlier groundbreaking procedure conducted at KNH on a 13-year-old patient, further cementing the hospital’s reputation as a regional leader in specialised surgical treatment.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, KNH announced that the latest operation involved 51-year-old Dormitila Yula, who had lived for eight years with severe facial disfigurement.
According to KNH, her ordeal began in 2017 with what appeared to be a simple pimple on her nostril. After it failed to heal, tests conducted at KNH revealed that she was suffering from a form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma.
KNH doctors initially performed reconstructive surgery using skin from her forehead and bone from her rib to rebuild part of her nose. However, KNH’s medical team continued to provide follow-up care after the infection spread to her right nostril and eye.
By 2020, KNH’s oncology and surgical departments coordinated an extensive treatment plan that included two complex plastic and vascular surgeries, 33 sessions of radiotherapy, and 40 days of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, all conducted within the hospital’s specialised units. These efforts led to her being declared cancer-free.
Despite her recovery, KNH recognised that dormitila continued to face deep emotional and psychological effects from the damage caused by her illness and earlier surgeries. In 2024, KNH assembled a multidisciplinary team of specialists to design a customised plan aimed at restoring her appearance, confidence, and quality of life.
Through its advanced maxillofacial and prosthodontic units, KNH developed a tailor-made silicone prosthesis to recreate the natural contours of Dormitila’s nose. The prosthesis was anchored using zygomatic implants fixed securely into her cheekbones. KNH specialists spent two months virtually planning the intricate operation before executing a successful six-hour surgery.
“By 2020, the infection had spread deeper, and after extensive tests, Dormitila received a life-altering diagnosis: squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer. Her fight required an all-out effort. She endured two complex plastic and vascular surgeries led by a team including Dr Adeline Vilembwa, Dr Benjamin Wabwire, and Dr Loice Kahoro, followed by 33 sessions of radiotherapy and 40 days of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The treatment was gruelling, but it worked; Dormitila was declared cancer-free.” KNH stated.
Dr Margaret Mwasha. The surgery was performed by a dedicated KNH team led by consultant maxillofacial and oral surgeons Dr Adeline Vilembwa and Dr Andrew Okiriamu, together with consultant prosthodontist Dr Margaret Mwasha.
Reconstructive facial surgery on 7-year-olds
These come days after performing a similar surgery on a young 7-year-old boy, Ian Baraka, disfigured during a bandit attack in 2023.
“Today, Kenyatta National Hospital was honoured to present Baby Ian Baraka to the public after a successful, world-first reconstructive surgery to heal injuries sustained during a bandit attack,” KNH said.
The hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Richard Lesiyampe, commended the surgical team for their expertise, dedication, and courage.
In a press briefing held on Friday, October 24, 2025, the CEO said the successful operation not only highlights KNH’s technical capabilities but also highlights what is possible when expertise, innovation, and compassion come together.
“Baby Ian’s recovery symbolises what is possible when expertise, innovation, and compassion come together,” stated Ag. CEO Dr Richard Lesiyampe, CBS, at the press conference held on Friday, October 24, 2025.