A recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights a concerning trend in cosmetic surgery-related deaths among Americans in the Dominican Republic.
Since 2009, there have been 93 reported fatalities, with a noticeable increase in recent years, particularly involving Brazilian butt lift procedures.
The report, released on Thursday, delves into the details and causes of these deaths. It notes that many were due to complications such as fat or blood clots entering the lungs or bloodstream, often aggravated by pre-existing health conditions and multiple simultaneous surgeries. The study emphasizes the need for better surgical practices and preoperative assessments.
Despite the popularity of medical tourism in the Dominican Republic, U.S. health officials urge potential patients to be thoroughly informed about their chosen procedures, the qualifications of their surgeons, and the capabilities of the medical facilities. The CDC's separate report also highlights infection cases from a Florida cosmetic surgery center, showing that such complications are not unique to overseas surgeries.
The study concludes by advocating for heightened awareness and improved medical protocols to mitigate the risks associated with cosmetic surgery, particularly in the context of medical tourism.
The full report is available in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report by the CDC.
