New York Woman Dies After Botched Butt Implant Removal by Fake Surgeon
Unlicensed man posed as plastic surgeon and operated outside medical facility, say authorities
A 31-year-old woman from Queens has died after a botched cosmetic procedure carried out by an unlicensed individual posing as a plastic surgeon, according to authorities. The victim, María Peñaloza, reportedly went into cardiac arrest during the unauthorized removal of her butt implants on March 28. She was declared brain-dead shortly after the procedure and succumbed to her injuries weeks later, court documents reveal.
The accused, Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, allegedly carried out the operation at a non-medical facility without a valid license to practice medicine. The Queens District Attorney’s Office filed a criminal complaint stating that Hoyos-Foronda performed the surgery “without a license to do so and while not in a medical facility.”
Authorities say Peñaloza had previously undergone a butt implant procedure and sought removal due to complications. She came into contact with Hoyos-Foronda, who falsely claimed to be a certified surgeon capable of performing the extraction.
The illegal procedure reportedly led to immediate medical distress. Emergency responders were called, but Peñaloza had already suffered cardiac arrest and later showed no signs of brain activity.
“This tragic case is a stark warning about the dangers of undergoing medical procedures from unlicensed individuals,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “We are committed to holding the defendant accountable for this unconscionable act.”
Hoyos-Foronda has been charged with unauthorized practice of a profession and other related offenses. Authorities are urging anyone who may have received similar procedures from the suspect to come forward. The case has sparked renewed concern over underground cosmetic surgeries and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking body enhancements.