Clément’s obsession with cosmetic perfection led him into the perilous realm of illegal surgeries, resulting in alarming side effects. His experience prompted a reconsideration of his role as a social media influencer endorsing these treatments. Another victim, misled by a fake doctor, suffered severe reactions from unauthorized injections, leading to permanent changes and psychological distress. The rise of unlicensed practitioners, often found through social media, highlights the dangers associated with clandestine cosmetic procedures. Legal ramifications for such practices in France are severe.
The Allure of Perfection: Clément’s Journey
The desire for an impeccable appearance transformed into an obsession for Clément. At just 18 years old, he found himself entangled in the world of illicit cosmetic surgery. Twice a month, he indulged in injection sessions until the unsettling moment when visible side effects marred his face. “I had a bruise that lingered for nearly a month; I was terrified it was necrosis,” he recounted, revealing that his injector operated out of “apartments she rented,” and he even “ended up in a basement” once.
While Clément ultimately escaped serious harm, this alarming experience prompted him to reevaluate his role as a social media influencer, where he had been endorsing these unauthorized treatments. “In exchange for advertisements, I received the injections for free, making it all too easy to return frequently and explore more areas, leading to an addiction,” he admitted. The turning point came when one of his followers suffered severe necrosis, leading Clément to cut ties with the fraudulent practitioner.
The Hidden Dangers of Clandestine Cosmetic Procedures
Another victim of these illegal operations bravely shared her story while concealing her identity. Initially, she sought a facial treatment but was instead persuaded by a faux doctor to undergo injections. “She pointed out my dark circles, claiming she could eliminate them. Dressed in a white coat with diplomas adorning the walls, I felt reassured by her confidence,” she recalled from their first encounter two years ago. Over time, she received multiple injections in various facial areas, each session lasting just a few minutes. “Three days later, I woke up with frozen eyelids, unable to open my eyes. In a panic, I reached out to her, but she assured me it was normal and advised a follow-up in 15 days,” she continued, ultimately refusing further treatment.
Desperate for help, the young woman eventually underwent emergency surgery performed by a legitimate surgeon, who alleviated some of the adverse effects from the injections. However, the psychological toll remains. “I feel deceived and harbor deep remorse. The changes to my face are permanent, and I no longer enjoy taking pictures of myself,” she lamented.
Who are these unscrupulous practitioners peddling dangerous injections? The number of clandestine doctors is on the rise, easily accessible through social media. This was demonstrated when an investigative team, posing as clients, quickly secured an appointment after a few brief exchanges. No inquiries about age or medical background were made, with the only rule being to stow away phones upon arrival. Once seated, the injector promptly offered hyaluronic acid, and astonishingly, suggested a product known as ‘Lemon bottle fat dissolver,’ which is banned in France due to its hazardous nature.
The journalist feigned illness and declined the offered services, which were priced at a mere 160 euros—two to three times cheaper than legitimate medical practices. In a follow-up discussion, the faux doctor claimed authority to perform injections, despite presenting herself merely as a cosmetologist without proper credentials.
On social media, scammers promote training programs for under 1,000 euros, requiring no prior medical experience. “The training is just one intensive day; you’ll get the hang of it quickly. You will practice on models as soon as you feel ready to inject,” a trainer explained to the investigative team.
Dr. Catherine Bergeret-Galley, a surgeon who often assists victims of these illegal injections, emphasizes the gravity of the situation: “It’s completely illegal; medicine cannot be improvised.” She frequently sees patients with exaggerated lip enhancements and other complications, some with permanent results. Victims are often young and unaware of the potential dangers. The repercussions of poorly executed procedures can be severe.
In France, only licensed medical professionals are authorized to administer injections. Even a nurse, who typically performs intramuscular injections or IV drips, must do so under a medical prescription. Those engaging in illegal medical practices face serious penalties, including up to two years in prison and fines reaching 30,000 euros.