Singer's death raises concerns about Chinese plastic surgery

December 9, 2010

Singer's death raises concerns about Chinese plastic surgery
Singer's death raises concerns about Chinese plastic surgery

After a popular Chinese singer died in China earlier this month from complications due to plastic surgery, concerns are growing across the world’s second-most populous country about the safety of such procedures there, UK paper The Independent, reports.

Twenty four-year-old Wang Bei, who rose to fame on a Chinese version of American Idol, died on November 15 after problems arose with the anesthetic used during her plastic surgery. There have been conflicting reports as to the specifics of her death and this has prompted an investigation into the cosmetic health industry by the Chinese Ministry of Health.

Although the Chinese government is investigating the incident, her death raises a number of red flags especially since China's plastic surgery industry is growing significantly, leading to some physicians who are not qualified.

"As the demand for plastic surgery surges in China, some doctors not trained in the field are carrying out the surgery, which is risky and irresponsible," said Zhang Huabin, a professor at Guandong Medical College told the news source.

The tragic death of Wang should encourage those who are considering plastic surgery to check their physician’s credentials and certifications. If going abroad for plastic surgery, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery warns patients to make informed choices and follow safety guidelines.


The mission of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ASAPS, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org

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About ASAPS
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is recognized as the world’s leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body.  ASAPS is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; active members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International active members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.

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