Woman drops $30,000 to look like Kim Kardashian

LONDON, July 16 (UPI) -- A 24-year-old woman from Essex claims she spent about $30,000 on cosmetic surgeries and alterations to look like reality star Kim Kardashian.

Claire Leeson said on the British TV show This Morning that she spent the money on breast implants, hair extensions, spray tans, makeup, clothing and plans to enhance her rear-end, all to copy her body image idol.

"I've had my teeth whitened, then I wanted my boobs enhanced ... and with pictures [of Kardashian] explained to my surgeon that I wanted to look like this," said Leeson. "I also wear bum padding -- it's a silicone base. Pants with silicone inside."

Leeson plans to replace the pads after she has backside-enhancing surgery but admits, "my bum is never going to be as big as Kim's is."

She got the idea to change her image after friends told her she resembled Kardashian. Leeson said the measures she has taken are an attempt to gain self-confidence after being bullied as a teenager.

"When I get my Kimmy on I feel like I'm unstoppable and untouchable and I feel like no one can stop me and I can make something of myself. I feel strong ... and I feel that I have built enough confidence to love myself a little bit more," she said.