TV Host Osayuwamen Saleh Explains Why BBL Trend May Not End Soon in Nigeria
Prominent Nigerian media entrepreneur and television host Osayuwamen Saleh has shared her insights on why the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) trend is likely to continue in Nigeria despite the significant risks involved. In a recent video posted on her Instagram page, Saleh, who serves as the Group CEO of The Parallax Media Group, addressed the issue following the tragic death of Elena Jessica due to a botched BBL procedure.
Beauty Standards and Industry Pressures
Saleh emphasized that the persistence of the BBL trend is deeply tied to prevailing beauty standards and the dynamics of the entertainment industry. She noted that some celebrities have gained fame partly because of undergoing BBL surgeries, and even movie roles have been influenced by whether an actress has had the procedure or not. This has fostered a culture where a specific body shape—characterized by a tiny waist and large hips—is perceived as more attractive and marketable.
According to Saleh, the entertainment industry often rewards women who conform to this ideal, leaving those who refuse surgery as outliers. She argued that changing these beauty standards is the only effective way to reduce the risks associated with BBL surgeries. Saleh pointed out that many international celebrities, such as Kim Kardashian, who helped popularize the BBL trend, have since removed their implants, yet young women in Nigeria continue to chase the same look. She questioned why society persists in following a beauty trend that even its originators have abandoned.
Expert Warnings and Dangers
In her video, Saleh referenced an expert's commentary to highlight the dangers of BBL procedures. The expert, described as a white man, stated that the Royal College of Plastic Surgeons in the UK has banned the procedure due to its high risks and associated deaths. He explained that BBL is one of the most dangerous elective surgeries because if a small amount of injected fat enters a vein, it can travel to the heart and lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism that can be fatal.
Saleh concluded by questioning the profitability of BBL, wondering why individuals would risk their lives for it. She asked, "Is BBL really profitable? Because I don’t understand why I would put my life at risk for that. How are they making the money?" Her remarks have sparked widespread reactions online, with celebrities like Nollywood actresses Kate Henshaw and Queeneth Hilbert defending their natural bodies and clarifying that not everyone in the movie industry supports BBL.
Celebrity Reactions and Public Response
Kate Henshaw responded to Saleh's video by stating, "It's not everyone in the movie industry oo... Few, very few like me dey... thanks a bunch." Similarly, Queeneth Hilbert commented, "Please ma'am it's not everybody some of us will never take ourselves to where pain and death is lurking never ever even when offered trillions." Other netizens shared varied opinions, with some attributing the trend to low self-esteem and societal pressures, while others emphasized the importance of value over physical appearance.
In contrast, Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo defended BBL surgery, acknowledging the tragedy of Elena Jessica's death but noting that risks exist in many medical procedures. She stressed that proper education, skilled surgeons, and aftercare are crucial, and many women opt for cosmetic surgeries to regain confidence and feel comfortable in their bodies.
Osayuwamen Saleh's commentary sheds light on the complex factors driving the BBL trend in Nigeria, highlighting the need for a shift in beauty ideals to mitigate health risks. As the debate continues, her words serve as a call for greater awareness and change within the entertainment industry and society at large.
