The Lagos State Government has launched an investigation into the reported death of a socialite known as “Elena,” who is alleged to have died after undergoing a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) cosmetic procedure at an undisclosed clinic in the state.
A BBL is a cosmetic surgery that involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks to create a fuller, more contoured shape.
The probe is being conducted by the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), the regulatory body responsible for monitoring, licensing, and accrediting health facilities in Lagos.
In a statement on Thursday, HEFAMAA’s Permanent Secretary, Abiola Idowu, said the investigation follows reports circulating on social media that Elena developed complications during or shortly after the procedure. The agency stressed that the investigation would be thorough, professional, and transparent to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Preliminary findings indicate that the clinic where the procedure reportedly took place is registered with HEFAMAA. However, the agency clarified that registration does not exempt any facility from scrutiny, particularly in cases involving patient safety concerns.
HEFAMAA noted that aesthetic and cosmetic procedures in Lagos are governed by clearly defined regulatory standards covering facility infrastructure, practitioner qualifications, infection control, patient consent, anaesthetic safety, and emergency response capabilities. The agency has begun reviewing whether the clinic and medical personnel involved complied with these regulations.
“HEFAMAA is conducting a comprehensive assessment, including verification of the medical staff’s credentials and evaluation of the care provided before, during, and after the procedure,” the agency said.
The government has urged the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information that could compromise the investigation. Residents seeking cosmetic procedures are advised to ensure that services are provided only by accredited health facilities and qualified medical practitioners.
The agency reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to protecting residents’ health and safety through strengthened oversight, continuous monitoring, and strict enforcement of healthcare standards. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Cosmetic surgery-related deaths are not unprecedented in Lagos. In August 2024, a 36-year-old woman, identified as Abiola, reportedly died while undergoing a buttocks enlargement procedure at a clinic in Lekki Phase 1.
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