Unlicensed Surgeon Arrested After Teen Dies from Botched Breast Surgery in Mexico

Authorities in Durango, Mexico, have arrested the mother and stepfather of 14-year-old Paloma Nicole, who died following a series of unauthorized cosmetic surgeries earlier this month.

Nicole, who was only weeks away from celebrating her birthday, underwent breast augmentation and fat removal on September 12. Within days, her health deteriorated, and she was admitted to the hospital in critical condition. Tragically, she passed away shortly afterward.

Her biological father initially believed COVID-19 was the cause of death, as claimed by Nicole’s mother. But after examining the girl’s body with the help of a relative, he discovered visible evidence of surgical intervention.

Local media, including Periódico Victoria and Latinus, report that Nicole’s mother, Paloma Jazmín “N,” and her partner, Víctor Manuel “N,” were taken into custody. Investigators say Víctor Manuel—who is not a licensed doctor—personally carried out the operations. Prosecutors also allege that Nicole’s mother pretended to be a nurse during the procedure, despite having no formal training.

Sonia Yadira de la Garza, Durango’s Attorney General, confirmed that both now face a series of charges, including child neglect, document forgery, and impersonation. Authorities also revealed that a falsified COVID-19 test was used in the clinic’s paperwork.

“We already had conclusive evidence that the test result was fabricated using an older document,” de la Garza stated.

Nicole’s death has ignited outrage across the state. On September 27, hundreds joined her father in a march demanding justice. “It’s a pain that destroys you, it destroys every hope and dream,” he told reporters. “I had so many plans for my daughter, and suddenly everything collapsed.”

Nicole’s half-brother, Christopher Olivas, later shared online that the family has received threats via WhatsApp since the arrests. He described Nicole as a teenager who loved makeup, styling her curls, and expressing her beauty, but who also battled insecurities common at her age.

Adding to the disturbing revelations, reports indicate that Víctor Manuel’s own mother died under similar circumstances at the same clinic.

The case has become a national flashpoint, raising pressing concerns about unregulated cosmetic surgeries, the responsibilities of guardians, and how minors are protected from such risks.