A mother-of-two from Northampton, Sophie Hunt, has died following complications from cosmetic surgery in Turkey, an inquest has revealed.
The thirty-four-year-old underwent a Brazilian butt-lift (BBL) and tummy tuck at the private Nisantasi Hospital in Istanbul on 7 March 2022. Just two days later, she suffered cardiac arrest three times and ultimately died on 9 March 2022 after developing multi-organ failure.
At the inquest held at Northampton Coroner’s Court, her family expressed deep concern that she had not been medically fit to undergo the procedures. They questioned whether adequate checks had been carried out before the surgery was performed.
Her sister, Aimee Hunt, speaking to reporters outside the court, said: “If she hadn’t had the surgery, she would be alive still.” The family described Sophie as a devoted mother whose life was cut short by a procedure that should have been more carefully assessed.
The coroner’s findings highlighted the risks associated with invasive cosmetic surgeries, particularly when performed abroad. The court heard that Sophie’s health deteriorated rapidly after the operation, leading to repeated cardiac arrests and eventual organ failure.
Medical experts explained that Brazilian butt-lift procedures carry one of the highest mortality rates among cosmetic surgeries, due to risks of fat embolism and complications during recovery. Combined with a tummy tuck, the strain on the body can be severe, especially if the patient has underlying health concerns.
The case has reignited debate over the growing trend of “medical tourism,” where patients travel overseas for cheaper cosmetic procedures. While many clinics abroad advertise affordability and quick recovery times, critics warn that standards of care and post-operative monitoring may vary significantly.
Sophie’s death has prompted calls for greater awareness among UK residents considering surgery abroad. Health campaigners argue that prospective patients should be fully informed of the risks and encouraged to seek thorough medical evaluations before undergoing such procedures.
Her family has vowed to continue raising awareness about the dangers of cosmetic surgery overseas, hoping that Sophie’s story will serve as a cautionary tale for others. They stressed that her children are now left without their mother, a loss they believe could have been avoided.
As the inquest concluded, the coroner urged caution for anyone considering cosmetic surgery outside the UK, emphasizing the importance of safety, transparency, and medical fitness before undergoing high-risk procedures.
