The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) had successfully achieved groundbreaking zygomatic implants retained nasolabial prosthesis to a 51 year old lady.

Dormitila Yula had suffered for a period of eight years.

What began as a simple pimple on her nostril in 2017 slowly turned into a mess that required high medical attention.

She had lived with nasal blockage for many years which stole her comfort and confidence forcing her to hid face.

After visiting KNH, she underwent tests that revealed a growth in her nasal passage and surgical was conducted by doctors.

“Doctors performed reconstructive surgery, using skin from her forehead and bone from her rib to rebuild part of her nose. While the procedure brought some relief, a persistent infection took hold in her right nostril and eye,” said KNH.

What KNH Doctors Did After Dormitila’s Situation Worsened

Dormitila situation turned deadly in 2020 after doctors discovered that the infection has spread deeper.

“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,” KNH stated.

She was declared cancer-free after undergoing this process of treatment.

Also Read:KNH Surgeons Perform World-First Facial Reconstruction Surgery

Side Effects of Surgery

Even though she was healthy, Dormitila lived eight years with bandages on her face, hiding from the world.

However, in 2024 new multidisciplinary team at KNH decided to help Dormitila regain her normal life and health.

“They devised a pioneering plan: a custom-made silicone prosthesis to recreate the natural contours of her nose, anchored by zygomatic implants placed securely in her cheekbone. This complex procedure, the first of its kind in Kenya, required two months of virtual planning and a meticulous six-hour surgery,” KNH revealed.

The process went successfully and Dormitila didn’t hide her joy for what KNH has done to her life.

Also Read:Duale Reacts After KNH Conducts Its First Face Reconstructive Surgery

“KNH has given me a new lease on life,” Dormitila shared emotionally. “For eight years, I covered my face in shame. But now, I have a new nose. I can walk comfortably, go about my daily business, and sing in my church choir with confidence. I’m forever grateful.”

After Dormitila’s story, multidisciplinary care at KNH stands out as powerful unit in resilience, innovation and transformation.

Doctors Who Led Surgical Procedure

The final, surgical procedure was successfully performed by a team led by Dr. Adeline Vilembwa and Dr. Andrew Okiriamu, both consultant maxillofacial and oral surgeons, alongside Dr. Margaret Mwasha, a consultant prothodontist.

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KNH doctors and Dormitila after surgery completion. PHOTO/KNH FB