A 32-year-old mother of two has died after undergoing liposuction in Peru, prompting a manslaughter investigation. Rebeca Llacho Cahuana, described as a healthy woman, arrived alone for the procedure at Clínica Florez Salud in Cayma on Friday, April 17. The surgery began at around 5pm and was expected to last four hours.
Complications during surgery
At around 10pm, a clinic worker called Rebeca's sister, Jackie, with alarming news. Jackie told local media: "They told me my sister had complications during surgery, but they didn't give me any details." Rebeca was rushed to a public hospital, where doctors confirmed her death shortly after arrival.
Sister files police complaint
Jackie has since filed a police complaint. Rebeca had reportedly been in good health before the operation and had "passed all her tests," according to her sister. The surgeon, named as José David Molina Barreto, is now under investigation for manslaughter. He allegedly rented a room at the clinic to perform the procedure and is not registered as a plastic surgery specialist with the Peruvian Medical College.
Clinic's license questioned
Regional health manager Walther Oporto stated that the clinic was only licensed to operate as a consultation clinic, not as a surgical centre. Police have so far been unable to locate Molina. Rebeca leaves behind two young children.
Clinic's response
Clínica Florez Salud released a statement on Tuesday, April 21: "We would like to stress that our institution holds all the necessary licences, accreditations and documentation to operate, in full compliance with current regulations. We also confirm that we are responding promptly to requests from the relevant authorities, maintaining a cooperative and transparent approach, and making all necessary documentation available to help clarify the circumstances."
