Costa Rica authorities investigate death of Canadian woman at cosmetic clinic

The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) is investigating the death of a 57-year-old Canadian woman at a private cosmetic surgery clinic in the Barrio México neighborhood of San José. The woman, identified by the surname Gariepy, reportedly died on October 22 during what was described as a routine follow-up appointment. She had previously undergone a cosmetic procedure at the same facility on October 5.

Forensic specialists are conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. While investigators have not yet established whether medical negligence played a role or what specific procedure was performed, the incident has renewed scrutiny regarding safety standards in private clinics.

This death follows a series of fatalities linked to aesthetic procedures in Costa Rica. Reports indicate that at least four women have died this year following such surgeries, including three Costa Rican nationals in early January. Critics have called on the government of Rodrigo Chaves to implement an executive decree signed in June 2025, which would restrict plastic and reconstructive surgeries to duly trained specialists and prevent general practitioners from performing these procedures.