Warning Issued by CDC as Nearly 100 Americans Die from Cosmetic Surgery in the Dominican Republic
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning after a concerning number of American citizens have died from cosmetic surgery procedures in the Dominican Republic. According to the CDC, a total of 93 U.S. citizens have lost their lives due to complications from cosmetic surgeries in the country between 2009 and 2022. What is even more alarming is that the number of deaths has been on the rise in recent years, with more than half of them occurring after 2018. In fact, the deadliest year was 2020, when 17 people tragically lost their lives.
The majority of these incidents were related to a specific type of cosmetic surgery known as gluteal fat transfer, or more commonly referred to as Brazilian butt lifts. This procedure has gained immense popularity in recent years, with over 40,000 buttock augmentations performed in the U.S. alone in 2020. However, along with the surge in demand for Brazilian butt lifts, experts have been warning about the rising rates of body dysmorphia, particularly among women.
It is worth noting that all but one of the patients who died from these procedures in the Dominican Republic were women, with a median age of 40 years old. The deaths were primarily caused by embolisms, which are blockages in the bloodstream resulting from blood clots or fat buildup. A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2020 revealed that the death rate from Brazilian butt lifts is approximately 1 in 15,000.
Many of the patients who experienced fatal complications had pre-existing risk factors, such as obesity and undergoing multiple procedures simultaneously. This highlights the importance of thoroughly discussing the potential risks with a medical professional before considering any cosmetic surgery.
The rise in cosmetic surgeries has led to a boom in medical tourism, with individuals seeking procedures outside of the United States due to lower costs and shorter wait times. The Dominican Republic has emerged as a popular destination for medical tourism, given its proximity to the U.S. and its well-established American tourism industry. Doctors on the Caribbean island actively advertise their services to potential patients in the U.S.
However, the CDC warns that infections frequently occur after cosmetic surgeries performed outside of the United States. It is crucial for individuals interested in cosmetic surgery to be aware of the risks involved and have open discussions with their regular medical professionals.
Tragically, one of the victims who lost their life due to complications from a Brazilian butt lift in the Dominican Republic was Tandra Bowser-Williams, a captain at the NYC Department of Correction’s Rikers Island facility. Her case serves as a stark reminder that these concerning and potentially deadly complications are not limited to the Dominican Republic alone.
As the demand for cosmetic surgery continues to rise, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their safety and well-being. While the allure of medical tourism may be tempting, it is crucial to thoroughly research and consider all potential risks before making any decisions. The CDC’s warning serves as a reminder that one should never compromise on their health and should always consult with trusted medical professionals when considering any surgical procedure.
