Tabby Brown, a 38-year-old British model and former girlfriend of footballer Raheem Sterling, tragically passed away due to complications from a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery.
In October 2023, Tabby traveled to the Dominican Republic for the cosmetic procedure, which involves transferring fat to enhance the buttocks. She informed her family she was on a sightseeing trip, keeping the surgery a secret.
Upon returning to her South London home, Tabby felt unwell but chose to self-medicate with painkillers instead of seeking medical attention. Three days later, on October 13, she collapsed and was found by her mother, Mahasin. Despite prompt emergency response, Tabby was pronounced dead shortly after.
An inquest at South London Coroners Court revealed that Tabby died from a fat embolism—a known risk of BBL procedures—caused by fat entering the bloodstream and blocking blood vessels. The post-mortem examination found puncture wounds in her pelvic area and numerous tiny fat globules in her lungs, confirming the embolism as the cause of death.
Tabby’s family, unaware of her surgery plans, believed she was on a vacation in South America. They described her as a fitness enthusiast and a vibrant individual, expressing profound grief over her untimely passing.
This tragic incident underscores the significant risks associated with BBL surgeries, which have a notably high mortality rate compared to other cosmetic procedures. Medical experts caution individuals considering such surgeries to be fully aware of the potential dangers and to seek procedures from qualified professionals.
