There’s a heartbreaking story in the news right now that we want to share—not to scare you, but to help you stay safe and informed.
A woman in Queens, New York, recently died after going to someone she believed was a plastic surgeon for a buttock implant removal. According to ABC7NY, she paid $1,900 for the procedure, which was done in the man’s apartment—not a surgical center or hospital. He gave her injections of lidocaine and saline during the procedure, and when she became unresponsive, by the time he called 911 it was too late. She went into cardiac arrest and tragically passed away two weeks later.
The man behind the procedure wasn’t a licensed doctor, let alone a board-certified plastic surgeon. He had been advertising cosmetic services on social media. He was arrested at the airport as he was fleeing the US to go back to his country. He now faces criminal charges, including second-degree manslaughter.
What does “board-certified” actually mean?
A board certified surgeon does not equal a plastic surgeon. A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed years of specialized training and passed intensive exams through the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). These surgeons are held to strict safety and ethical standards. Just because someone calls themselves a “cosmetic surgeon” doesn’t mean they have this training—or even a valid medical license.
How can you protect yourself?
Here are a few simple but essential steps:
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- Always check for board certification. You can verify this through the ABPS website.
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- Make sure they’re licensed to practice medicine in your state, or the state the doctor is practicing in. For Virginia License Lookup, click here.
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- Avoid procedures in non-medical settings. If someone offers to treat you in a home, hotel, or salon—walk away.
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- Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Safe, experienced plastic surgeons may charge more, but your health and safety are worth it.
Comfort and safety can go hand in hand.
We understand that many patients are drawn to the idea of having surgery in a more comfortable or private setting—something less intimidating than a big hospital. That’s why we offer the best of both worlds here at The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery in Ashburn, Virginia.
Our on-site operating suite is AAAASF certified, meaning it meets rigorous standards for safety and care. You can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in a certified surgical facility, without sacrificing comfort or privacy.
The Bottom Line:
Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice, but it’s also a medical one. Make sure you’re trusting your body to someone who’s fully qualified and committed to your safety.
At The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael J. Brown, MD, is here to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Call our office at (703) 726-1175 to schedule a consultation—or even just to ask a few questions. We’re happy to help however we can.