A beautician’s life took a frightening turn after a botched gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey resulted in severe internal bleeding that nearly ended her life. Lucy Mawson, 32, faced “life-altering” complications following a procedure she underwent in September 2022. The aftermath of the surgery forced her to rely on weight-gain shakes and endure daily dizzy spells, painting a harrowing picture of the consequences she faced.
Ms. Mawson’s ordeal began when she decided to undergo the surgery after encountering another woman’s success story of weight-loss surgery abroad. With seemingly little screening, she swiftly booked the procedure with Get Slim in Turkey for just £3,100, which covered flights, accommodation, and the surgery itself. Despite her excitement for a positive change in her life, the reality that awaited her was far from what she anticipated.
Following the surgery in İzmir, Turkey, Ms. Mawson found herself in excruciating pain post-surgery, crying out for help in a recovery room filled with other patients. The lack of proper care and attention exacerbated her suffering, leaving her in traumatic circumstances. Her attempts to seek relief were repeatedly dismissed as normal post-op symptoms or trapped wind, prolonging her agony.
Even when back in the UK, the severity of her condition became apparent as she struggled with intensified pain and alarming symptoms. A visit to A&E revealed internal bleeding, a life-threatening situation that had gone undetected post-surgery. Ms. Mawson’s ongoing struggles post-surgery included severe dietary restrictions, multiple fainting spells daily, and significant changes to her daily life that underscored the magnitude of the surgery’s impact on her well-being.
Despite reaching out to Get Slim in Turkey to address the complications, Ms. Mawson received only apologies without any further actions to rectify the situation. Her message to others contemplating similar surgeries is clear: the risks and consequences far outweigh any vain aspirations, urging caution and prioritising health over cosmetic goals.
The Independent’s efforts to reach out to the company for comment went unanswered, leaving unanswered questions about the accountability and responsibility in such cases. Ms. Mawson’s story stands as a cautionary tale, highlighting the traumatic aftermath and long-term consequences that can arise from rushed decisions regarding medical procedures, especially when pursued for cosmetic reasons.
As Ms. Mawson continues to navigate the challenges posed by the botched surgery, her experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of thorough research, caution, and prioritising health above all else in matters of medical interventions.