Man Dies After Illegal Silicone Injection for Aesthetic Treatment in Pisa, Investigation Underway
By Elena Rossi
August 23, 2025
Pisa, Italy – A tragic incident has sparked a police investigation in Pisa after a man died following an illegal silicone injection administered as part of an aesthetic treatment. The case, reported by local authorities, has raised concerns about the dangers of unregulated cosmetic procedures and the use of illicit substances in backstreet clinics.
According to reports from La Stampa and PisaToday, the man, whose identity has not been disclosed, received a silicone injection, likely intended for body contouring or enhancement, at an unauthorized facility. He was rushed to a hospital after experiencing severe complications but succumbed shortly after. The exact cause of death is under investigation, with authorities suspecting complications such as silicone embolism syndrome, a potentially fatal condition where injected silicone enters the bloodstream and obstructs vital organs like the lungs or heart.
Investigation Launched
Local law enforcement has opened a formal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the source of the silicone and the qualifications of the practitioner who administered the injection. Preliminary findings suggest the procedure was performed by an unlicensed individual, possibly using non-medical-grade silicone, which significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. The investigation is also exploring whether the facility was part of a broader network of illegal cosmetic providers, a growing concern in Italy and beyond.
The use of liquid injectable silicone (LIS) for cosmetic purposes is highly controversial and banned in many countries, including Italy, due to its severe health risks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the dangers of silicone injections for body enhancement, noting that they can lead to infections, tissue necrosis, disfigurement, and even death. In this case, the silicone may have triggered a foreign body reaction or migrated to other parts of the body, causing catastrophic complications.
Dangers of Illicit Silicone Injections
Medical experts emphasize that silicone injections, particularly when performed by untrained individuals, carry significant risks. Dr. Sofia Bianchi, a dermatologist based in Florence, explained, “Silicone, when injected improperly or in large quantities, can cause granulomas, chronic inflammation, or life-threatening embolisms. Only medical-grade silicone is approved for specific uses, like retinal detachment, and even then, it’s tightly regulated.”
The Pisa incident echoes similar cases worldwide. In the U.S., a 2015 case involved the death of Kelly Mayhew, who died after receiving illegal silicone injections in her buttocks, leading to the extradition of the practitioner responsible. Such incidents highlight the global issue of backstreet cosmetic procedures, often driven by the allure of low-cost treatments and the promise of instant results.
Community and Official Response
The incident has sent shockwaves through Pisa, prompting calls for stricter regulations on cosmetic procedures. Local health officials are urging the public to seek treatments only from licensed professionals and to verify the credentials of practitioners. “This tragedy underscores the need for greater awareness and oversight,” said a spokesperson for the Pisa Health Authority. “Unregulated procedures can have devastating consequences.”
Posts on X reflect public outrage and concern, with users warning about the risks of seeking cheap cosmetic enhancements. One user wrote, “Another life lost to backstreet silicone injections. When will people learn to avoid these dangerous procedures?”
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to release more details about the practitioner and the circumstances of the procedure. The case may lead to renewed efforts to crack down on illegal cosmetic operations in Italy, where demand for aesthetic treatments has surged in recent years.
For now, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with unregulated cosmetic procedures. Experts advise consumers to research providers thoroughly, ensure the use of FDA-approved or equivalent materials, and avoid procedures performed outside certified medical facilities.
The family of the deceased has not issued a public statement, but the community mourns the loss of a life cut short by a preventable tragedy. As Pisa grapples with this incident, the hope is that increased awareness and stricter enforcement will prevent future losses.
Elena Rossi is a health and safety reporter covering medical and regulatory issues in Italy.