A Florida mother's quest for cosmetic enhancement ended in a nightmare of infections, massive debt, and ongoing health struggles. Loyda Hernandez, after giving birth to four children, sought to reclaim something for herself at the Miami-based Xiluet Plastic Surgery Center with a Brazilian butt lift procedure. The outcome was far from the confidence boost she had anticipated, leaving her with severe complications and a fight for her life.
"Your body never recovers to what it once was," Hernandez told East News. Despite being diabetic, Hernandez was assured she was a good candidate during the electronic intake process. Yet, concerns arose immediately after the operation when she noticed alarming wounds that medical personnel at Xiluet allegedly dismissed as normal. According to a lawsuit filed against the clinic, Xiluet had not scheduled a consultation with the operating physician until the day of the procedure—a detail that would later haunt Hernandez.
Hernandez's situation deteriorated as the wounds became infected, eventually resulting in a traumatic hospital stay. She was slammed with a slew of medical bills totaling about half a million dollars, and the repercussions of the surgery rippled through her life, costing her job and car. “I can't die,” Hernandez stated in an NBC 6 Miami interview, revealing the gravity of her ordeal.
Compounding Xiluet's problems, the Florida Health Department has filed multiple administrative complaints against them, uncovering licensure and staffing deficiencies. Although some corrections were made, the department is pushing for significant penalties possibly including license revocations. Meanwhile, the clinic's involved plastic surgeon Dr. Tomasz Kosowski, awaits trial on unrelated murder charges, and was prominently featured in Xiluet ads months before Hernandez's surgery.
The disturbing aftermath of Hernandez’s experience is not merely a private battle; it’s a cautionary tale for those considering similar procedures. As she continues to deal with depression, anxiety, and panic attacks following her harrowing ordeal, Hernandez shares her story to warn others of potential dire consequences. Her attorney, Peter Sotolongo, asserts they have documentation indicating Xiluet presented Kosowski as part of their staff contrary to their claims of his independent contractor status. In a fierce legal clash, Hernandez demands accountability from those she believes failed critically in their duty of care.
