A 27-year-old Mexican social media influencer, Denisse Reyes, died of complications after a liposuction procedure in an unauthorised clinic in Chiapas, Mexico. The incident has caused many to be concerned about cosmetic procedures conducted in unregulated medical facilities.
According to sources, Reyes underwent the surgery on January 26 at the San Pablo Medical Clinic in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. She was administered intravenous medication by Dr. Orlando Gamboa before the procedure. Shortly after, she suffered an adverse reaction that led to cardiac arrest.
Sudden Health Deterioration and Hospital Transfer
Reyes had been posting updates on social media regarding her recovery. However, she took a turn for the worse after the surgery. According to her uncle, Ammao Rodriguez, Reyes was not feeling well before suffering cardiac arrest. According to reports, medical staff moved her out of the recovery room while asking a friend who accompanied her to wait outside.[2] She was transferred to Manzur Hospital since the San Pablo Medical Clinic did not have an intensive care unit. All her efforts to stabilise were futile as the girl died on January 31.
Family Demand Justice
She has left behind an eight-year-old son. The family, which is totally devastated by this sudden loss, wants justice for their loved one. Rodriguez stated that he was working with health authorities in Chiapas and that he was planning to file charges against the surgeon who had conducted the procedure. "May the authorities do justice to Denisse and may the doctor pay in some way for what he did," he said in a statement.
Concerns Over Unregulated Cosmetic Procedures
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding the risks associated with undergoing cosmetic procedures in unauthorised clinics. Experts warn that such establishments often lack the necessary equipment and qualified personnel to handle emergencies, significantly increasing the risk to patients. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that individuals seeking cosmetic surgery should thoroughly verify the credentials of the medical professionals they choose and make sure the facility meets appropriate health standards. [1]
Mexican authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding Reyes' death and the operations of the San Pablo Medical Clinic.
References:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. "Patient Safety." American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed February 4, 2025. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/patient-safety.
New York Post. "Influencer Dies Just Days after Common Cosmetic Surgery: 'It's Not Fair.'" New York Post, February 1, 2025. https://nypost.com/2025/02/01/lifestyle/influencer-dies-just-days-after-common-cosmetic-surgery-its-not-fair/.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Pragati Sakhuja/MSM)