A 14-year-old girl in Durango, Mexico, tragically lost her life just days after undergoing clandestine cosmetic surgery procedures, including breast augmentation and a buttock lift. The teenager, Paloma Nicole Arellano Escobedo, passed away in a hospital after suffering from a swollen brain and heart complications. The surgery had been performed a week prior without the knowledge of her father, Carlos Arellano.
Carlos Arellano was initially informed that his daughter had succumbed to complications related to Covid-19. It was only during his final farewell that he discovered the truth about her secret surgery. Relatives at the funeral pointed out that Paloma’s breasts appeared larger than before. When confronted, her mother denied any knowledge of the surgery.
Carlos Arellano, determined to uncover the truth, enlisted the help of his mother, sister, and sister-in-law to examine Paloma’s body. Their examination confirmed the presence of breast implants, and they promptly requested an autopsy. Photographs of the implants and scars were taken as evidence.
The teenager’s mother had reportedly consented to the surgery, which was performed by her current boyfriend, a 45-year-old plastic surgeon identified only as Víctor “N.” Carlos Arellano accused his ex-wife and her boyfriend of orchestrating a cover-up and held them directly responsible for their daughter’s death.
In Mexico, while there are no specific age restrictions for cosmetic surgery, it is generally 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 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 the wake of his daughter’s death, Carlos Arellano has initiated a campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of cosmetic surgery for young girls. A march is planned for Friday under the banner “girls don’t need implants.” Arellano took to 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.”