Illinois Suspends Plastic Surgeon’s License After Eight Patient Deaths

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has suspended the medical license of Dr. Ayoub Sayeg, a Chicago plastic surgeon, after a Tribune investigation revealed eight patient deaths associated with him. This decision temporarily prevents him from practicing medicine in the state.

Background and Investigation

Dr. Sayeg’s suspension follows an investigation that found the state had not previously disciplined him despite multiple patient fatalities. The investigation began after the state received a complaint in 2020 about one of the patient deaths.

Records show that three of Sayeg’s patients died due to surgery complications while the investigation was ongoing. Following the newspaper’s findings, the Illinois Medical Board inspected Sayeg’s clinic on June 18 and identified compliance issues related to anesthesia services.

License Suspension Details

The IDFPR suspended Sayeg’s license on July 7, stating he had failed to provide mandatory proof of continuing medical education and a nurse anesthetist’s cardiac life support certification. The suspension is indefinite and was implemented immediately, citing an urgent need to protect public safety.

A spokesperson for Sayeg’s clinic confirmed the suspension but declined further comment.

Patient Deaths and Legal Actions

Since 2014, eight of Sayeg’s patients, all women of color, died following surgeries at his facility. Six died due to surgical complications, while two overdosed on pain medication at home. Common procedures involved included tummy tucks and liposuction.

One notable case involved Idalia Corcoles, whose family won a $56 million verdict in a lawsuit against Sayeg and his anesthesiologist. Another case, involving Crystal Walker Keating, ended in settlements after a wrongful death lawsuit. Sayeg and his entities contributed $470,000 to the total settlements.

Regulatory and Legal Proceedings

The IDFPR aims to permanently bar Sayeg from practicing in Illinois. Sayeg, based in Michigan and operating another surgery business there, is disputing the Illinois suspension. His attorneys argue the state’s complaints are minor and unrelated to his professional abilities.

A status hearing regarding his Illinois license is scheduled for August 17. Additionally, Michigan officials are investigating Sayeg after similar patient complaints.

Response and Future Actions

In reaction to the Tribune’s reports, Illinois regulatory officials announced an internal review of their handling of the allegations against Sayeg. They intend to propose changes to expedite disciplinary processes in similar cases.

Public officials, including Chicago Ald. Silvana Tabares and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, expressed concerns about the case. Tabares highlighted the impact on minority communities, while Gov. Pritzker emphasized the seriousness of Sayeg’s actions. State Sen. Mike Porfirio vowed to explore legislative solutions to prevent such tragedies.

Olivia Olander of the Tribune contributed to this report.