2 Young Lives Lost After Hair Surgery by Dentist

Two young engineers recently lost their lives in Kanpur after undergoing hair transplant surgery procedures that are often marketed as safe, quick, and affordable. The shocking incident has raised serious concerns about the growing number of unsafe cosmetic clinics in India and the hidden dangers behind these seemingly simple procedures.

Hair Transplants Are Surgery, Not Just Beauty Treatments

Hair transplant ads often make bold promises: “No pain, quick recovery, low cost.” But behind the glossy brochures is a reality many don’t talk about.

A hair transplant is a surgical procedure. It involves cutting, stitching, and in some cases, anaesthesia. That means there are real medical risks involved, especially if the clinic is not properly equipped or the doctor is not fully qualified. In the Kanpur case, the surgeries were offered for just ₹40,000 to ₹50,000, far cheaper than the standard cost elsewhere. Sadly, this low price may have come at the cost of safety.

How Small Symptoms Turned Deadly

One of the victims, Mayank Katihar, came home from the clinic with a swollen face and a severe headache. Instead of asking him to return for a check-up, the clinic reportedly told him to take painkillers and rest.

But these symptoms were not minor. Infections after surgery can quickly spread through the bloodstream, a life-threatening condition called sepsis. Without emergency treatment, this can lead to organ failure and even death. This tragedy shows why proper follow-up care and a real emergency plan are non-negotiable.

Unlicensed Clinics and Fake Doctors

The clinic where the surgeries took place is now shut. The doctor, Anushka Tiwari, is missing, and there’s confusion about her qualifications. Was she a dentist? A dermatologist? No one knows for sure, and that’s the problem.
In India, many cosmetic clinics operate without proper licenses or oversight. There is no single authority verifying the credentials of people performing such procedures. As a result, patients often walk into clinics without knowing whether the doctor is truly trained to perform surgery.

Surgery During Outbreaks: A Risky Combo

Right now, several infections are on the rise, including drug-resistant bacteria, dengue, and seasonal flu. In this environment, any surgical procedure becomes riskier. Open wounds from cosmetic surgery can act as entry points for infections if hygiene isn’t strictly maintained.
This is why it’s crucial to have strong safety protocols, clean facilities, and pre-surgery health screenings, especially during times of widespread illness.

Conclusion

Hair transplants and other cosmetic procedures can boost confidence, but only when done safely and responsibly. The Kanpur tragedy is a wake-up call for stricter rules, better awareness, and smarter choices.
Before choosing any cosmetic surgery, do your homework, ask the tough questions, and prioritize safety over price.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.