Illinois medical regulators are conducting an internal review of their handling of a Chicago-area plastic surgeon, Dr. Iyub Seyegh, after reports that eight patients died following procedures at his clinic over the past seven years, with no disciplinary action taken yet. The case highlights potential gaps in oversight that could affect clinic sourcing and compliance for overseas buyers.
Case background
According to the Chicago Tribune, eight patients died after undergoing abdominoplasty and liposuction at Seyegh's 63 Laser & Skin Clinic in Chicago's southwest side, a predominantly Latino neighborhood. Six deaths were attributed to post-surgical complications, and two to painkiller overdoses. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) began investigating Seyegh in 2020, but at least three more patients died after the investigation started, and his medical license remains unblemished.
Legal and regulatory response
In 2021, the family of Idalia Cocoles, a 39-year-old patient who died in November 2019 after surgery with Seyegh, filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against him and an anesthesiologist. A jury awarded $56 million in damages in 2024. However, disciplinary proceedings against Seyegh have not yet reached a hearing stage. IDFPR acknowledged the delay, citing the case's complexity and voluminous medical and legal evidence, and plans to propose state law amendments to expedite disciplinary actions in similar cases.
Current clinic status
As of the morning of June 10, 2026, Seyegh's clinic website was still operating normally, promoting "cheapest plastic surgery in Chicago" and "free consultations." Seyegh is reported to have 22 years of experience and over 45,000 procedures performed. IDFPR stated it is pursuing the highest level of discipline to prevent Seyegh from practicing in Illinois.
What buyers should watch
For overseas importers and distributors of aesthetic devices and consumables, this case underscores the importance of verifying the regulatory compliance and disciplinary history of partner clinics. Clinics with unresolved safety issues may face sudden shutdowns or license revocations, disrupting supply chains and brand reputation. Buyers should monitor IDFPR's final decision and any legislative changes in Illinois that could tighten clinic oversight.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 10, 2026