Deaths linked to cosmetic procedures reported in Armenia as demand grows

Armenian health officials have confirmed that deaths linked to cosmetic procedures were investigated in 2025 amid a sharp rise in demand for aesthetic injections and surgeries and a growing trend of patients seeking such services at younger ages.

The Ministry of Health said on Friday two forensic examinations were carried out at its Scientific and Practical Center of Forensic Medicine in 2025 following deaths associated with cosmetic procedures and aesthetic surgery. Officials declined to disclose causes or circumstances, citing the confidentiality of ongoing investigative proceedings.

In recent years, the number of practitioners offering aesthetic injections in Armenia has steadily increased, while the age of patients seeking such procedures has dropped. Non-surgical cosmetic changes, including lip augmentation, nose reshaping and facial contouring, are increasingly common among people aged 20 to 25. After age 30, demand shifts toward rejuvenating treatments, including Botox, dermal fillers for volume restoration and skin-care procedures.

Public concern has intensified following reports of serious complications. In one recent case, a woman reportedly suffered severe vision problems after receiving Botox, ultimately losing her sight and requiring prolonged treatment. In another instance, nail procedures involving gel polish were blamed for long-term nail damage requiring medical care. In both cases, the affected individuals did not file complaints with law enforcement and covered treatment costs themselves.

Aesthetic injections and procedures are considered safe when performed by experienced, licensed professionals. However, growing demand among both women and men has raised questions about oversight and accountability.

In response to a query from Panorama.am, the Ministry of Health said that no plastic, reconstructive or aesthetic surgery clinics had their licenses suspended or revoked during the reporting period. The ministry emphasized that all injectable services are classified as medical services and are subject to mandatory licensing under Armenian law.

Meanwhile, the ministry said that certain beauty services, including permanent makeup (powder brows) and manicure services, are not considered medical procedures and therefore do not require medical licensing.

Panorama.am also contacted Armenia’s Investigative Committee to find out how many criminal cases were launched in 2025 based on complaints related to cosmetic procedures. The agency said it does not maintain statistical records on such cases.

Public scrutiny of the sector intensified last year after a woman died during an aesthetic surgery, a case that sparked widespread debate over patient safety and regulation in Armenia’s cosmetic industry.