Aesthetic surgery in Ghana: A one-year retrospective case series of procedures and patient profiles in a tertiary hospital.

BACKGROUND

Aesthetic surgery is the most frequently performed surgical category worldwide, with increasing demand across Africa. Ghana reflects global trends; however, no published data describe its aesthetic surgery landscape. This study aimed to map aesthetic procedures performed at a large tertiary hospital in Ghana and to characterize the demographic, medical, and social profiles of patients.

METHODS

A retrospective case series included patients aged ≥18 years undergoing aesthetic surgery at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, between January 1 and December 31, 2021. Procedures were performed within a tertiary plastic surgery unit involving a limited number of surgeons. Data on demographics, residence, comorbidities, and procedure type were collected. Associations were analyzed using chi-square tests and odds ratios.

RESULTS

Of 156 identified records, 154 met inclusion criteria. One hundred four patients (67.5%) resided in Ghana, while 50 (32.5%) lived abroad, primarily in the United States or Canada, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Mean age was 38.1 years, and 95% of patients were female. Obesity (BMI >30) was present in 66% and was significantly associated with abdominoplasty and Brazilian butt lift (BBL) (p < 0.001), but not liposuction. A total of 385 procedures were performed; 84% of patients underwent multiple procedures. The most common operations were 360° liposuction (82%), BBL (62%), abdominoplasty (44%), and mastopexy (18%). Patients residing outside Ghana underwent abdominoplasty more frequently than local patients (76%vs 28%, p < 0.001). Prior cesarean section was strongly associated with abdominoplasty (72%vs 36%, p < 0.001). Comorbidities were present in 29% of patients, most commonly hypertension and diabetes, without association with procedure type.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first overview of aesthetic surgery activity in a tertiary hospital in Ghana. A distinctive procedural profile was observed, dominated by liposuction, BBL, and abdominoplasty, reflecting regional and cultural preferences. These data establish a baseline for future prospective studies evaluating outcomes, complications, training, and safety to inform practice.