A routine hair transplant meant to restore his receding hairline turned into a devastating ordeal for 49-year-old C. Sanil from Elamakkara, Ernakulam. What began as a quest for better looks has left him fighting a life-threatening bacterial infection and facing multiple surgeries.
Sanil underwent the procedure at a private clinic in Kochi, but soon after, his health took a tragic turn. He now alleges gross medical negligence on the part of the clinic.
The trouble began in September 2024 when Sanil saw an advertisement from Insight Derma Clinic in Panampilly Nagar. Eager to address his hair loss, he contacted the clinic and scheduled surgery. After several delays, the two-day procedure was finally done in February 2025.
During the surgery, Sanil noticed a staff member suffering from chronic eczema but did not leave the clinic. Soon after the procedure, severe pain and yellow oozing spots appeared on his scalp. Despite repeated visits and calls, the clinic’s response was limited to painkillers and steroids, with no improvement.
By March 10, Sanil sought urgent care at Lourdes Hospital, where specialists diagnosed him with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare and aggressive flesh-eating bacterial infection. He was immediately prepared for emergency surgery.
Since then, Sanil has undergone thirteen surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures. The infection had severely damaged his scalp, exposing bone and causing a hole in his head. He now relies on a vacuum-assisted drainage pump to manage continuous discharge and prevent further damage.
Sanil’s experience has brought immense physical, emotional, and financial strain on him and his family. He warns others to be cautious and urges better oversight of cosmetic procedures to prevent such tragedies.
