Fake NYC Doctor Arrested After Illegal Surgery Leaves Woman Brain-Dead
Image Source: CBS News
Felipe Hoyos-Foronda, 38, faces felony charges for performing unlicensed plastic surgery that left a 31-year-old woman brain-dead after administering lidocaine injections during a buttock implant removal procedure, according to a recent story from CBS News.
Botched Surgery Leads to Cardiac Arrest
On March 28, 2025, the victim visited Hoyos-Foronda’s makeshift clinic in his Astoria, Queens, home to have buttock implants removed. During the procedure, he allegedly injected lidocaine, which caused her to suffer cardiac arrest.
Emergency responders found her unresponsive and transported her to Mount Sinai Queens, where she was intubated and diagnosed with what the doctor believed to be lidocaine toxicity—a condition marked by seizures, irregular heart rhythms, and respiratory failure.
Attempted Escape and Arrest
After calling EMS, Hoyos-Foronda fled the scene. Authorities tracked his vehicle using license plate readers and apprehended him at JFK Airport, where he was attempting to board a flight to Colombia via Florida. He reportedly claimed to be a licensed doctor in Colombia but lacked U.S. credentials.
Hoyos-Foronda’s Illegal Clinic
Police discovered Hoyos-Foronda’s apartment outfitted as a medical office, complete with exam tables, syringes, and surgical lights. A partial vacate order was issued for unauthorized use of the space. Investigators also found evidence of him promoting services like Botox and lip fillers on TikTok, charging up to $1,000 per procedure.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Hoyos-Foronda was charged with second-degree assault and unauthorized practice of a profession. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment and is being held without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 28.
Call for Additional Victims
Authorities released Hoyos-Foronda’s photo and urged potential victims to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at (800) 577-TIPS.
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