Antonella Cortés Chistama, a 34-year-old lawyer and mother of two, died following a liposuction procedure she hoped would boost her confidence before her wedding next year. Antonella planned to look her best when walking down the aisle and chose liposculpture, a cosmetic surgery that transfers fat to reshape the body.
On May 20, the day of her surgery, Antonella’s mother received a distressing phone call. Her daughter was in the intensive care unit after suffering a cardiac arrest. Despite medical efforts, Antonella passed away. Her sister, Fiorella Cortéz, rushed to the hospital but was told there was nothing doctors could do.
Investigation and Clinic Closure
Police have launched an investigation into Antonella’s death. Authorities temporarily closed the clinic near Lima, Peru, where the surgery was performed. The closure followed a police inspection that uncovered “irregularities” in the clinic’s operations. Antonella’s family is demanding answers and a full explanation from the police.
What Is Liposculpture?
Liposculpture is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at removing fat from small areas of the body to enhance muscle tone and definition. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it targets body parts that cannot be easily improved through diet or exercise, such as the arms, abdomen, chest, and chin.
The surgery usually lasts between two to four hours, depending on the number of areas treated. During the procedure, surgeons use a thin tube called a cannula. They inject a solution into the fat, make small incisions, and then suction out the fat to reshape the body.
Though consulting an experienced plastic surgeon lowers risks, liposculpture can still lead to complications. These include bleeding, blood clots, scarring, infection, and skin burns.
Similar Tragedy in Colombia
Antonella’s death is not isolated. Two years ago, Rosalba Rodríguez, a mother of two, died after liposuction at an unlicensed clinic in Bogota, Colombia. The procedure took place in a secret clinic operating out of an apartment building registered as a police tax office. Reports said the surgeon’s husband was a police officer.
After Rosalba’s death on May 18, 2023, those responsible vacated the property and cleaned up. The clinic did not have proper licenses or permits to perform surgery, according to the victim’s cousin, Milena Camargo.
Milena explained that Rosalba was convinced by her best friend to undergo the procedure there, as it was cheaper than a registered clinic. “Because of her naivety and low level of education, she was deceived and manipulated,” Milena said. She only realized something was wrong after the surgery.
The Risks of Unregulated Cosmetic Surgery
These cases highlight the dangers of cosmetic procedures performed in unregulated or illegal settings. Patients often seek cheaper alternatives but face serious health risks, including death.
Experts stress the importance of choosing qualified surgeons at licensed clinics to reduce the chance of complications. Families and authorities urge stricter regulation and enforcement to prevent further tragedies.
Antonella’s family continues to seek justice and clarity as investigations proceed. The story is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers behind cosmetic enhancements and the critical need for patient safety.
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