Overview

• 93 Americans have died after cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic since 2009, with a significant increase in deaths between 2019 and 2022.
• All but one of the victims were women, with many of the deaths associated with the Brazilian butt lift procedure.
• Autopsy records show that fat or blood clots getting into the lungs or bloodstream were the cause of death in many cases.
• The Dominican Republic is a popular destination for medical tourism due to the lower cost of cosmetic procedures and its proximity to the United States.
• The CDC advises Americans seeking plastic surgery abroad to consult with their health providers about the risks involved.