At least 11 women in Bulgaria have reported complications following botulinum toxin (Botox) injections performed by an unlicensed practitioner.
The women, who paid 250 leva each for the procedure, are now grappling with severe side effects, including neurological symptoms.
According to Neli Georgieva, deputy chairwoman of the Association of Aesthetic Medicine Patients, the affected individuals have sought medical attention, and health authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident.
The unlicensed individual who administered the injections is not of Bulgarian origin, and the victims report that she is no longer in the country.
After the initial complaints emerged, the practitioner allegedly changed her Instagram profile, adopting a new identity, including a different name and photo, in an attempt to avoid further scrutiny.
This has added to the complexity of tracking down the individual responsible for the botulinum toxin injections.
Among the 11 women affected, three are in serious condition, with one seeking immediate medical care at “Pirogov” hospital. This woman was later referred to the Military Medical Academy for additional examination.
Health officials at “Pirogov” confirmed that they have treated a total of seven women for iatrogenic botulism, a form of poisoning caused by botulinum toxin, which developed after receiving Botox at the same beauty studio. The most recent patient, a 47-year-old woman, was admitted to the hospital last night.
The rising number of cases has prompted health authorities to intensify their efforts to investigate the incident.
Officials from the Executive Agency for Medical Supervision have reviewed the reported cases at “Pirogov” and confirmed that the victims experienced neurological symptoms within days of the procedure.
One of the women who initially complained is no longer receiving treatment at the hospital. However, the remaining victims, who all underwent the same treatment at the beauty studio operated by the unlicensed individual, are receiving ongoing medical care.
“Pirogov” has stated that three of the patients are still under treatment for botulism symptoms, while the others have been discharged after their conditions stabilized.
Georgieva noted that the women affected are considering filing formal complaints with both the police and the prosecutor’s office. “We are seeking justice for the victims, and we urge others who may have suffered similar complications to come forward,” she said.
The case has raised alarm over the safety of cosmetic procedures in Bulgaria, highlighting the risks associated with unregulated beauty treatments. Botulinum toxin is a powerful substance that, when administered incorrectly, can cause life-threatening complications.
In response to the growing number of cases, a meeting is scheduled between Bulgaria’s Minister of Health and officials from the Medical Supervision agency to address the issue and discuss potential measures to tighten regulations surrounding such procedures.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are committed to identifying the individual responsible for the unlicensed injections.
Meanwhile, patients who have received Botox treatments from unqualified practitioners are urged to seek medical advice if they experience any unusual symptoms.