Ruby Khan, 30, went to Turkey for a procedure but she died when her heart rate spiked when the surgeon carried out part of the procedure – it was her first surgery
A young British woman died after her liposuction and tummy tuck cosmetic surgery in Turkey went horribly wrong.
Rochdale Coroners’ Court heard that Ruby Khan, 30, went to Turkey for the procedure at Medical Point International Hospital in Izmir on Sunday, April 6. Police Coroner’s Officer Katie Burrows said the surgery had ‘started well’, but that her heart rate then spiked after the surgeon had carried out part of the procedure. Doctors were able to get a faint heartbeat, but the single housing officer from Oldham, Greater Manchester, sadly died a day later, on Monday, April 7.
The coroners’ court heard that it was Ms Khan’s first surgery. Asisstant Coroner Julie Mitchell said the cause of death had been determined as a ‘fatal cardiac arrhythmia’ – abnormal heart rhythms which can lead to sudden death.
A full inquest has been scheduled for October 30 this year, with evidence required from Ms Khan’s GP before it can take place. Today Ruby’s family declined to comment when approached at their home in Oldham.
There have been numerous cases of women dying after flying to Turkey for cosmetic surgery. Last year, Kaydell Brown, who had just turned 38, tragically died after travelling to Istanbul to undergo a so-called “mummy MOT.”
Her devastated sister Leanne, who was due to have the same surgery, hit out at the Istanbul clinic, branding it a “pop-up butcher shop that needs shutting down.” Previously speaking to ITV News, she said medics informed her about her sister dying and handed her and envelope of cash as part of a refund and was booked on the last flight out. She said: “It’s like, ‘Sorry she’s dead, here’s your plane ticket’.”
She said Kaydell hoped the surgery would get her life “back on track” after she had put on a lot of weight due to breaking her ankle. The sisters decided they would both have the same surgery at the clinic in Istanbul.
The UK Government has warned Brits that the standard of medical facilities in Turkey can vary widely. It added: “We are aware of six British nationals having died in Turkey in 2024 following medical procedures. Some British nationals have also experienced complications and needed further treatment or surgery following their procedure.”
The UK Government said there are several things people should consider if they want to travel to Turkey for medical, surgical or dental treatment, which include:
- Discuss plans with your UK doctor, dentist or clinician before going ahead
- Do your own research – private companies have a financial interest in booking your treatment and their literature should not be your only source of information