Unlicensed Beauty Treatments: A Life-Threatening Danger for Patients

A 42-year-old woman went to a spa for abdominal liposuction and scar removal, but she experienced severe bruising and necrosis around her navel and waist just a few days later. She sought treatment at Hanoi Medical University Hospital after two weeks of receiving care at a hospital in Thanh Hoa. A computed tomography scan revealed that there was diffuse subcutaneous tissue infiltration in the abdomen, flanks, and a collection of subcutaneous fluid.

Dr. Hoang Hong, Head of the Department of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, described the patient’s condition as complex. The skin around the abdomen, navel, and the area surrounding the navel was severely necrotic and infected. Dr. Hong emphasized that prompt treatment is crucial to prevent a life-threatening infection. The patient is currently undergoing comprehensive care and will undergo debridement to remove the necrotic skin, restore the abdominal wall and navel area when stable.

Unfortunately, complications arising from beauty treatments performed by unlicensed establishments and inexperienced professionals are not uncommon. Patients have suffered punctures in the lungs, liver, and intestinal perforations leading to peritonitis. There have been instances of cerebral embolism resulting in hemiplegia, aphasia, fascial necrosis of the abdominal wall, pulmonary embolism, organ embolism, and even death.

To prevent such complications from occurring again in the future, Dr. Hong advises individuals seeking beauty treatments to choose licensed facilities with well-trained doctors in cosmetic plastic surgery. It is essential to prioritize safety and expertise when undergoing cosmetic procedures to avoid any adverse effects or potential risks associated with these treatments.