Why More Nigerians Are Embracing Cosmetic Surgery – LUTH CMD

Why More Nigerians Are Embracing Cosmetic Surgery – LUTH CMD

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, has revealed that an increasing number of Nigerians are turning to cosmetic surgery, driven by rising awareness, social influence, and advances in medical technology.

Speaking during a health symposium in Lagos on Saturday, Prof. Adeyemo explained that cosmetic surgery, once viewed with skepticism, is now gaining wider acceptance among Nigerians across different age groups and social classes.

He attributed the trend to a combination of social media influence, personal confidence goals, and global exposure, noting that celebrities and public figures have played a role in normalizing surgical enhancements.

> “Cosmetic surgery is no longer something that Nigerians only hear about abroad. It is happening here, in our hospitals, and it is being done by certified professionals. People are becoming more confident in seeking these procedures, whether for aesthetics, self-esteem, or corrective purposes,” Adeyemo said.

The LUTH CMD also pointed out that many patients undergoing cosmetic procedures are not only motivated by beauty or luxury but also by medical reasons, such as correcting birth defects, burn scars, or deformities from accidents.

He, however, cautioned Nigerians against patronizing unqualified practitioners or “quack” facilities, stressing that cosmetic surgery carries risks if not performed by trained professionals in standard hospitals.

> “The danger is when people go to roadside operators or unlicensed centers. We have seen complications from such practices. We must prioritize safety over cost,” he warned.

Medical experts at the event also emphasized the need for public education and regulatory oversight, urging government agencies to clamp down on illegal operators while supporting certified surgeons with better infrastructure.

Cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, breast augmentation, and facial reconstructions are reported to be among the most sought-after surgeries in Nigeria.

The growing interest reflects a shift in cultural attitudes, as more Nigerians, especially young women and urban professionals, openly discuss body enhancement and corrective procedures as part of personal wellnes

s and lifestyle choices.