The Lagos State Government has commenced an investigation into the death of socialite Elena Jessica following complications from a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure.
Jessica’s sister, Nelli, announced her death on social media and alleged that the surgery was performed at cynosure aesthetic plastic surgery hospital in Ikoyi, Lagos. She also claimed unsterilised tools were used during the procedure.
According to Nelli, Jessica underwent liposuction and fat transfer surgery to her hips, buttocks and calves on February 6.
“On February 6th, 2026, my sister had liposuction and fat transfer surgery (to her hips, buttocks, and calves) at Cynosure Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Ikoyi. Two days later, she started having severe pain and serious swelling in her hips, calves, and buttocks. We complained immediately,” the message reads.
“Blood tests showed her white blood cell count was very high, which meant there was an infection. Her blood level was also very low, and we had to buy 5 pints of blood for transfusion while she was there. Even with antibiotics, her condition kept getting worse.”
Nelli said Jessica later underwent another surgery on February 13 to remove most of the fat and place drains but did not improve.
“On February 19th, they said they arranged for her transfer to LUTH. But 3/7, when we got there, there was no ICU bed and no arrangement made. She was inside the ambulance for 5 hours while she was screaming in severe pain,” she said.
Responding to the development, Abiola Idowu, permanent secretary of the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), said the state government has begun a full investigation into the incident.
“The Lagos State Government, through the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), has commenced a full investigation into the reported death of a Lagos socialite popularly known as ‘Elena,’ who allegedly died after undergoing a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) cosmetic procedure at a clinic in the state,” Idowu said.
“The development follows reports circulating on social media alleging that the young woman developed complications after the aesthetic procedure, which reportedly occurred either during or shortly after the surgery.”
“While details of the incident are still being verified, the State Government has assured the public that a thorough, professional, and transparent investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate event.”
The agency added that although the facility involved is registered with the regulatory body, its registration does not prevent authorities from investigating concerns related to patient safety.
