VILLERBANNE, France – A woman has died in Villeurbanne, near Lyon, following an illegal aesthetic injection that led to a cardiac arrest. An Instagram influencer has been charged in connection with the incident, which highlights the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures.
Influencer Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter
The individual, suspected of performing an illegal aesthetic injection that resulted in the death of a woman on March 20 in Villeurbanne, near Lyon, has been charged and imprisoned, the public prosecutor’s office announced on Monday, March 30. The suspect is being prosecuted for “involuntary manslaughter” and “illegal practice of the medical profession.” The exact causes and circumstances of the death will be determined by an investigating judge, who will oversee the ongoing inquiry.
Victim Suffered Cardiac Arrest After Injection
According to reports, the victim, a woman in her forties, suffered a cardiac arrest after receiving an injection of hyaluronic acid – a substance known for its hydrating and plumping properties – and lidocaine in her buttocks. The procedure was reportedly carried out in an apartment. The accused is believed to be an Instagram influencer specializing in aesthetic treatments, who gained notoriety through the social media platform.
Growing Concerns Over Illegal Cosmetic Procedures
This tragic incident underscores the increasing dangers associated with cosmetic procedures performed by non-medical professionals and under unsanitary conditions. The National Union of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (SNCPRE) has called for “strengthened controls” and “increased public vigilance.” Health professionals regularly warn about the sharp rise in illegal injections of Botox or hyaluronic acid outside of medical circuits, a phenomenon spreading rapidly on social media.
Risks of Unregulated Injections
Attracted by promises of immediate results and seemingly attractive prices, clients expose themselves to risks of necrosis, severe infections, embolisms, or irreversible deformities, warn medical experts. These unregulated procedures can have severe and lasting consequences, emphasizing the importance of seeking treatments only from qualified and licensed medical professionals.
Alarming Increase in Illegal Medical Act Reports
The Medical Council received 213 reports concerning illegal medical and surgical aesthetic procedures in 2025 – a record number – and already 28 in 2026. In 2024, there were 128 reports, compared to 123 in 2023 and 62 in 2022. These figures, however, are believed to be an underestimation of the actual number of incidents.
Severe Complications Reported
Between August and September 2024, eight individuals were hospitalized in intensive care for severe symptoms, including difficulty speaking or swallowing, difficulty walking, blurred or double vision, and respiratory difficulties, with some requiring tracheotomy. These cases highlight the critical health risks associated with unregulated cosmetic injections.
The authorities continue to investigate this case, aiming to bring justice to the victim and to raise awareness about the perils of illegal cosmetic practices. The incident serves as a stark reminder for individuals to exercise extreme caution and verify the credentials of anyone offering aesthetic treatments.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/villeurbanne_69266/lyon-injection-mortelle-dans-les-fesses-ce-que-l-on-sait-sur-l-influenceuse-mise-en-cause_64078428.html
