Simphiwe Ngema's transformation: a 'mommy makeover' journey filled with surprises and recovery updates

South African actress, Simphiwe Ngema, affectionately known as Simz Ngema, has joined the list of celebrities who have undergone cosmetic surgery to enhance their features.

Ngema, who did her surgery on July 27, shared on her social media accounts that she is doing a “mommy makeover” in Turkey with Mono Clinic, a popular cosmetic clinic among SA celebrities.

According to The Cosmetic Surgery Institute, a “mommy makeover” is a combination of cosmetic surgeries which is done to address body changes after pregnancy and help achieve a more defined appearance.

These surgeries include a tummy tuck for a flatter stomach, breast procedures to improve size or lift and liposuction for stubborn fat.

Ngema has two children, 5-year-old Tiyani and 6-month-old Kaboentle, whom she shares with Tino Chinyani.

Taking to her Instagram stories, the former “Muvhango” actress has been updating her fans on her recovery journey since she underwent the procedure.

On Monday, June 30, she shared: “Day 4 of recovery: I’m feeling so much better. 3 of my drains are empty since yesterday. There’s only one drain that had to be emptied. Still a little uncomfortable. 

“You know when you’ve slept on your arm for a long time and it feels numb? That’s what my tummy feels like. My boobs are fine. I’m starting to feel a bit of sensation on my nipples."

The mother of two, accompanied by her mother, Ethel Ngema, has also been sharing some of her pictures wearing compression garments, which help the healing process after the procedure.

Celebs/ influencers who have done cosmetic procedures:

For the past few years, the rise of plastic surgery among local celebrities has been significant, as many have been showing their post-op journey on social media.

Khanyi Mbau got a facelift, Shamiso Mosaka and Thuli Phongolo did a BBL,  Amanda du Pont had a breast augmentation, Cyan Boujee did a breast lift, BBL and gastric sleeve.

While Gogo Skhotheni had a tummy tuck, liposuction and filled her hip dips, Jojo Robinson underwent 11 surgeries, including a facelift, necklift, tummy tuck, four breast augmentations and many more procedures.

Where do celebs/ influencers go under the knife?

The go-to location for these surgeries is usually Turkey for many influencers and celebrities; only a few have had their procedures locally.

According to an article by "Independent Media Lifestyle”, the rise of plastic surgeries among influencers or celebrities is because it is deemed a cheaper alternative, and these international clinics also offer discounts.

However, a cheaper alternative comes at a cost since some of these celebrities and influencers end up with botched surgeries, which lead to yet another surgery and more money.