An incident involving a Brazilian butt lift has led to a state lawsuit against a Miami plastic surgeon, as per the complaint document. Dr. Baotram Tran, licensed in Florida, risks losing her surgical privileges following the tragic event on March 18, 2022, at Professional Plastic Surgery, located at 2299 SW 37th Ave.
The Florida Department of Health filed the suit, detailing that a 41-year-old woman visited the clinic for a comprehensive procedure that included abdominal, flank, and back liposuction, breast augmentation, and gluteal fat grafting. Unfortunately, she passed away later that same day. The complaint highlights that during the Brazilian butt lift (BBL), Dr. Tran injected fat into the gluteal muscles. Subsequently, in the recovery room, the patient complained of breathlessness and then became unresponsive.
The patient was rushed to Mercy Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 5:34 p.m. on March 18, 2022. The BBL, a procedure involving the transfer of fat from the abdomen to the buttocks, was improperly conducted, violating Florida's administrative code. This code bans injections into the gluteal muscles due to the heightened risk of a fatal pulmonary embolism.
Documents reveal that the Miami-Dade medical examiner's autopsy found the patient's main pulmonary artery blocked by a 5 cm piece of material resembling fat. The Miami Herald reported that "[Tran] knew, or should have known, that injecting fat into the gluteal muscles was strictly forbidden." The guidelines stipulate that during gluteal fat grafting, fat must be injected only into the subcutaneous space, avoiding penetration of the gluteal fascia. Intramuscular or submuscular fat injections are strictly prohibited.
By injecting fat into the gluteal muscles, Tran allegedly violated rule 64B8-9.009(2)(f) in her treatment of the patient. Consequently, the state agency is urging the Board of Medicine to take action by revoking or suspending Tran's license, restricting her practice, imposing an administrative fine, or issuing a reprimand.
Dr. Tran has been licensed in Florida since August 4, 2016. Prior to this complaint, she had no recorded disciplinary actions, according to the Miami Herald.
Understanding the Risks and Regulations of Brazilian Butt Lifts
What are the risks associated with Brazilian butt lifts?
Brazilian butt lifts carry significant risks, including fat embolism, infection, and asymmetry. The procedure's high-risk nature makes it critical to follow strict guidelines to ensure patient safety.
Why is injecting fat into gluteal muscles prohibited in Florida?
Injecting fat into the gluteal muscles is banned in Florida due to the increased likelihood of a deadly pulmonary embolism. This practice can cause fat to enter the bloodstream and block arteries, leading to severe complications or death.