China Plastic Surgery Scam: Grandma Loses $8,600 in Tuition Money to “Stop Husband Cheating”

A grandmother in China lost her entire life savings. She spent her grandson’s tuition money on cosmetic procedures. The total cost was a shocking $8,600. She was allegedly tricked by a plastic surgery clinic. They convinced her the procedures would stop her husband from cheating.

How Do Plastic Surgery Scams Operate in China?

This incident highlights a worrying trend. The 58-year-old woman, surnamed Cui, visited a local therapy center. The owner then took her to a plastic surgery clinic. A surgeon there told her she had too many wrinkles. He claimed these wrinkles brought bad luck. He specifically said crow’s feet meant her husband was unfaithful.

The clinic staff rushed the procedure. They took her phone to process an online payment. She received ten separate injections in one sitting. The substance used was hyaluronic acid filler. After the treatment, she suffered severe headaches and nausea. She could not even open her mouth properly.

Her daughter discovered the truth later. She found the expensive transaction and confronted the clinic. The clinic refused a refund and told the family to pursue legal action. According to the South China Morning Post, China has been cracking down on such medical scams since 2019. Several hospitals have faced fines and business suspensions for false advertising.

Image source: BBC

What Are the Red Flags of Cosmetic Procedure Fraud?

This case shows common tactics used by unscrupulous clinics. They often prey on personal insecurities and superstitions. The promise of improving luck or saving a marriage is a powerful lure. Patients are frequently rushed into decisions without time to think.

Pressure to pay immediately is a major red flag. Legitimate clinics provide clear consultation and consent forms. They never confiscate a patient’s phone. They also do not guarantee results based on superstition. Always research a clinic’s credentials thoroughly.

Be wary of any treatment that promises to change your fortune. Real medical professionals address health and aesthetic concerns. They do not make false claims about altering destiny. If an offer seems too good to be true, it usually is.

The Chinese government continues its fight against medical fraud. This case is a stark reminder for consumers to remain vigilant. Always verify a clinic’s reputation before any procedure.

Must Know

Q1: What was the China plastic surgery scam about?
A woman was tricked into spending her grandson’s tuition money. A clinic convinced her that removing wrinkles would stop her husband from cheating. The procedures cost her $8,600.

Q2: How did the clinic convince the grandmother?
The surgeon used superstitious claims. He said her wrinkles brought bad luck and meant her husband was unfaithful. He promised the procedures would change her fortune.

Q3: What happened after the cosmetic procedure?
The woman suffered serious side effects. She experienced headaches and nausea. She was also unable to open her mouth properly after the injections.

Q4: What is China doing about medical scams?
Authorities have cracked down on false advertising since 2019. They have fined hospitals and suspended business licenses. The goal is to protect consumers from fraudulent practices.

Q5: How can you avoid cosmetic procedure scams?
Always research a clinic’s credentials and licenses. Be skeptical of offers that use superstition or pressure tactics. Never agree to a procedure without a full consultation and time to decide.