Queens Woman Dies After Botched Butt Implant Removal by Unlicensed Surgeon, Authorities Say

A 31-year-old woman from Queens has died following a botched butt implant removal surgery allegedly performed by a man posing as a plastic surgeon, according to authorities.

María Peñaloza, a New York City resident, went into cardiac arrest during the procedure and was later declared brain-dead, court documents state. The procedure was carried out on March 28 by Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, a 38-year-old man who prosecutors say was not licensed to perform medical surgeries and was operating out of his home.

Hoyos-Foronda allegedly administered lidocaine via syringe during the unregulated procedure, causing Peñaloza to suffer cardiac arrest. She was rushed to Astoria General Hospital, where doctors found no brain activity and concluded her condition showed signs of lidocaine toxicity. She was declared not likely to survive, the complaint says.

Following the incident, Hoyos-Foronda was arrested and charged with second-degree assault and unauthorized practice of a profession. He is currently being held at Otis Bantum Correctional Center in East Elmhurst, Queens.

The Queens District Attorney’s Office said it is now reviewing the charges in light of Peñaloza’s death and noted that the case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional or upgraded charges may follow.

Hoyos-Foronda’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 28.