Florida Woman Severely Burned by Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal can seem like an easy solution for unwanted leg, bikini, facial and underarm hair, but this is one treatment that was anything but easy for Miami resident, Monica Jimenez, who suffered second- and third-degree burns after a recent procedure.
According to her attorney, Jimenez underwent laser hair removal for underarm hair at the office of Francesco Cabrera, M.D. in Miami. Cabrera reportedly supervised the treatment while one of his technicians performed the service, which is not an unusual method.
However, Jimenez and her attorney are claiming that neither party ensured the process was sterile.
"Ms. Jimenez says she experienced a burning sensation instantly during the laser hair removal process," said attorney Spencer Aronfeld in a press release. "It's clear Dr. Cabrera didn't ensure protocol was followed and did not provide an acceptable standard level of care -- something all health care providers are required to do."
Aronfeld goes on to claim that neither Dr. Cabrera nor the person performing the procedure recognized the fact that the laser was burning the patient¹s skin repeatedly and she needed urgent medical attention.
"It felt literally like fire was under my armpits," Jimenez stated in a YouTube video. "Somebody got a torch and lit fire."
Monica Jimenez displays her burns. Courtesy Photo
Jimenez was treated twice at a Miami hospital for burns and related injuries. In her medical negligence lawsuit, she seeks personal injury damages totaling more than $15,000. It now appears that the person who performed the procedure may not have been licensed.
"Because there are so many people desperate to compete in a very beauty conscious society, predatory doctors or those pretending to be doctors take advantage of innocent victims like Monica," said Aronfeld.
To help prevent future occurrences, Aronfield makes five recommendations for anyone considering laser hair removal:
1. Make sure the doctor and technician performing the service is licensed to do so.
2. Make sure the facility is insured and ask to see a copy of their coverage.
3. Check to see if the physician has privileges at a local hospital in case you need medical attention.
4. Ask for proof that the laser machine has been properly calibrated. Too much laser applied can lead to burns.
5. If you feel any burning during a procedure, stop immediately and go to an emergency room.
"Patients have to be their own advocates," says Aronfield. "People should do more than just trust white coats and diplomas on walls. Slow down, do some investigating and do not rely on the first opinion."
In related news, check out what burned the armpits of this "Dancing With the Stars" celeb.







Mel, 6-22-2010, 3:11PM
Okay this doesn't make sense don't they do one armpit at a time...so I think this is a scam...she trying to get money...if her first armpit was burning then why she do the other one..go figure.
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