In a tragic incident in Durango, Mexico, a 14-year-old girl lost her life following unauthorized cosmetic surgery procedures. The teenager, identified as Paloma Nicole Arellano Escobedo, died in a hospital due to complications including brain swelling and heart issues. The surgeries, which included breast augmentation and a buttock lift, were performed a week before her death without the knowledge of her father, Carlos Arellano.
Carlos was initially led to believe that his daughter had died due to complications from Covid-19. However, during the funeral, relatives noticed that Paloma’s breasts appeared larger than before. When questioned, her mother denied any knowledge of the surgery. Determined to uncover the truth, Carlos, with the help of his mother, sister, and sister-in-law, examined Paloma’s body and confirmed the presence of breast implants. They immediately requested an autopsy and took photographs of the implants and scars as evidence.
Reports suggest that Paloma’s mother had given consent for the surgery, which was performed by her current boyfriend, a 45-year-old plastic surgeon known only as Víctor “N.” Carlos accused his ex-wife and her boyfriend of orchestrating a cover-up and held them directly responsible for their daughter’s death.
In Mexico, there are no specific age restrictions for cosmetic surgery. However, it is typically only performed on minors with the consent of both parents. The Durango Attorney General, Yadira de la Garza Fragoso, stated that they are investigating potential negligence on the part of the mother for exposing her minor daughter to such risks.
The plastic surgeon involved in the case has had his license suspended and is under investigation for malpractice. Depending on the results of the autopsy, which could take up to 10 days or more, he could face more serious charges, including negligent homicide.
In response to his daughter’s death, Carlos Arellano has started a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of cosmetic surgery for young girls. A march is planned for Friday under the slogan “girls don’t need implants.” Arellano used his Instagram account to express his concerns, stating, “We cannot continue to normalize the sexualization of girls or allow the ambition of some adults to put their lives at risk. We demand justice and that this crime does not go unpunished. Girls deserve to grow up free, safe, and respected.”