Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
A woman in Tianjin tragically died following a botched intimate cosmetic surgery at an unlicensed clinic, leading to the primary surgeon receiving a seven and a half year prison sentence. The Tianjin Heping District People’s Court found the surgeon guilty of practicing medicine illegally.
The victim, known by the pseudonym Xiao Mei, was only 30 years old. As she approached her thirties, Xiao Mei decided to enhance her appearance. On the recommendation of a friend, she chose to undergo a dimple creation procedure and an intimate tightening surgery.
In July 2023, Xiao Mei visited a makeshift operating room in a rented apartment used by the surgeon, identified as Liu. Despite the absence of any official signage or certifications, Xiao Mei trusted Liu’s skills. After confirming the procedures, Liu administered anesthesia and proceeded with the surgeries in conditions that were far from sterile or professional.
Shortly after the procedure began, Xiao Mei started convulsing on the operating table. Realizing something was seriously wrong, Liu immediately called emergency services.
Liu later admitted that the complication occurred while injecting hyaluronic acid into Xiao Mei's intimate area. A forensic examination revealed that Xiao Mei died from a pulmonary embolism caused by the hyaluronic acid. In the aftermath of the incident, Liu turned himself in to local police.
Investigations uncovered that Liu was fully aware of the legal requirements for performing cosmetic surgeries, including having the necessary professional qualifications and operating out of a licensed medical facility. Despite lacking both, Liu went ahead with the procedure on Xiao Mei.
The court concluded that Liu's unqualified medical practice led to Xiao Mei's death, thereby constituting the crime of illegal medical practice. Consequently, Liu was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison and fined 30,000 yuan.
The case sparked significant outrage and debate online. Many netizens expressed their condolences for Xiao Mei and criticized the prevalence of unlicensed cosmetic clinics. One commenter lamented, "This tragedy could have been avoided if there were stricter regulations and enforcement." Another pointed out the dangers of opting for cheaper, unverified medical treatments, saying, "Sometimes, saving a bit of money can cost a life."
