Two doctors are under investigation for the tragic death of Margaret Spada, a 22-year-old woman from Lentini, Sicily, who died in Rome following a rhinoplasty performed by a surgeon she found on social media. The two suspects are the owner of the clinic and his son. The investigation is led by Public Prosecutor Erminio Amelio, who has assigned the task of collecting evidence to the Carabinieri’s Nas unit.
The clinic where the procedure took place, located between Laurentina and EUR, reportedly lacked an external sign and had no documentation such as medical records, consent forms, or any registration related to the surgery. Authorities plan to perform an autopsy to determine the exact cause of Spada’s death, which occurred on November 7, after three days in a coma following complications from the local anesthesia administered during the procedure.
Spada had traveled to Rome with her fiancé on November 4 for the rhinoplasty, which she had chosen based on an advertisement she saw on TikTok. Shortly after the administration of the local anesthesia, she began feeling unwell and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where her condition worsened. Her family’s lawyer, Alessandro Vinci, stated that “an autopsy will be necessary to clarify the cause of death.” Margaret had chosen the clinic after researching it online.
In response to the incident, Filippo Anelli, President of the Italian Federation of Medical Orders (Fnomceo), issued a public appeal urging citizens to verify the credentials of medical professionals before undergoing procedures. “Even if we see a doctor on social media, it’s important to check their qualifications,” he stated. Anelli recommended using the Fnomceo’s online registry to ensure that a practitioner is properly registered with the medical board.
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a popular cosmetic surgery to alter the shape of the nose. It can also correct structural issues causing breathing problems. However, like any surgery, rhinoplasty carries risks. If performed incorrectly or in unsuitable conditions, it can lead to severe complications, including infections, bleeding, or permanent damage to the nasal structures.
