Kenyan digital creator and lifestyle influencer Wangari Thiong’o has opened up about her gastric balloon weight loss journey, sharing details of her experience, results, and the impact the procedure has had on her health and confidence.
In a candid Q&A session on Instagram Stories, Wangari responded to dozens of questions from her followers who have closely followed her transformation over the past two months.
14 Kilograms Down in Two Months
Wangari revealed that she underwent the gastric balloon procedure two months ago and has since lost 14 kilograms.
“I’ve been losing overall body weight. I don’t think you can target a specific area with the gastric balloon,” she clarified when asked if it was possible to lose weight while maintaining body curves.
No Pain, Just Early Discomfort
When followers asked whether the procedure was painful, Wangari assured them that her experience was largely pain-free.
“Personally, I didn’t experience any pain,” she said.
However, she admitted there were some mild side effects in the early weeks following the procedure.
“Mainly nausea, weakness, and a bit of dehydration in the first month, but it gets much better after that,” she explained, adding that the discomfort subsides as the body adjusts to the balloon.
The Cost: KSh 350,000 Investment
Wangari disclosed that the procedure cost her approximately KSh 350,000, describing it as a worthwhile investment in her health, wellness, and self-confidence.
“It’s an investment in myself — in feeling healthier, more confident, and more comfortable in my own skin,” she noted.
Despite fans’ curiosity about where she had the procedure done, Wangari said she would withhold that information until she completes the full journey.
“The only thing I won’t be sharing for now is where I got it done. I’ll share that once I’m done with the journey, just to be sure it’s completely safe and effective first and avoid influencing anyone’s decision unfairly,” she explained.
About the Gastric Balloon Procedure
The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss procedure in which a soft, saline-filled balloon is temporarily placed inside the stomach to limit food intake and promote a feeling of fullness.
It is considered a minimally invasive alternative for people seeking to manage weight without undergoing surgery. The balloon is usually removed after six months.
A Message of Transparency and Self-Care
Wangari’s openness about her health journey has resonated with many of her followers, who praised her for being authentic and transparent in an industry often dominated by unrealistic beauty standards.
She emphasized that her journey is personal and encouraged others to consult qualified medical professionals before pursuing any form of weight management procedure.
“This is my journey. Everyone’s body is different. Always do your research and talk to a doctor first,” she advised.
Social Media Reaction
Her revelations have sparked widespread conversations online about modern weight loss procedures, body image, and the growing adoption of medical wellness interventions among Kenyan creators and public figures.
Fans have lauded her courage and openness, with many describing her story as inspiring and refreshingly honest.
