Woman’s Nightmare After ‘Turkey Teeth’ Procedure: A Cautionary Tale
A mother of two from Telford, Shropshire, is sounding the alarm about the dangers of cosmetic dental procedures abroad, particularly the popular “Turkey Teeth” trend. Leanne Abeyance, 41, has been living in constant pain and struggling to breathe through her nose after undergoing dental work in Turkey that left her with severe complications, including a flesh-eating virus.
The Allure of Affordable Dental Work
The trend of traveling to Turkey for dental procedures has gained traction in recent years, primarily due to the significantly lower costs compared to treatments in the UK. Many individuals are drawn to the promise of a perfect smile at a fraction of the price. However, as Leanne’s experience illustrates, the risks can far outweigh the benefits.
Leanne initially sought dental work in Turkey in 2009, describing it as “the best thing she’d ever done.” However, her enthusiasm turned to despair when, during a day out at the Grand National last year, one of her veneers fell out. In a desperate attempt to fix it, she resorted to using nail glue to keep it in place.
A Deteriorating Situation
In August 2022, Leanne returned to Turkey for further treatment, where she underwent extensive procedures, including bone grafts and sinus lifts. Despite undergoing 26 injections, she felt something was amiss during the surgery. “I could feel the hammer smashing up into my face; it was horrendous,” she recalled.
After the procedure, Leanne’s situation quickly deteriorated. She began experiencing severe pain, sinusitis, and frequent nosebleeds. “Something wasn’t right,” she insisted. Her health continued to decline, leading to multiple hospital admissions and over 350 doctor appointments. Eventually, an X-ray revealed that her dental implants were piercing her nasal cavity, exacerbating her condition.
The Diagnosis: A Flesh-Eating Virus
Leanne’s ordeal took a grave turn when she was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare and severe infection that can result from dental complications. This condition has left her in a state of desperation, as she struggles to find medical professionals willing to help her. “It is to the point now where they won’t see me because they can’t help me,” she lamented.
Her experience highlights a critical issue: the lack of accountability for cosmetic procedures performed abroad. Many patients assume that they can seek help from the NHS if something goes wrong, but this is often not the case. The NHS has made it clear that while they will provide treatment for clinically necessary issues, they will not cover complications arising from cosmetic procedures done overseas.
The Financial Burden
Leanne’s financial situation has also worsened due to her medical complications. She initially spent over £3,000 on her dental work in Turkey and has since invested an additional £2,000 on private treatments in the UK. With mounting medical bills and the inability to work due to her health issues, she has turned to crowdfunding, setting up a GoFundMe page to raise £6,000 for further surgery. So far, she has raised over £4,000.
A Call for Caution
Leanne’s story serves as a cautionary tale for those considering cosmetic dental work abroad. “If you are thinking about going to get your teeth done or anything, just don’t have it done,” she warns. Her plea is not just about her own suffering but also about raising awareness of the potential dangers associated with overseas cosmetic procedures.
The allure of affordable dental work can be tempting, but as Leanne’s experience shows, the consequences can be dire. She is now on a quest to find a surgeon willing to help her, hoping to remove the implants and address the damage caused by the infection. “I’m begging from the bottom of my heart we find a cure because at this rate I’m going to end up dead,” she said.
The Broader Implications
Leanne’s case is not an isolated incident. The rise of medical tourism, particularly for cosmetic procedures, has led to numerous reports of complications and inadequate follow-up care. Many patients are left to navigate a complex web of healthcare systems, often without the support they need.
In the UK, dental professionals have expressed concerns about the legal implications of treating complications from overseas procedures. Vijay Sudra, owner of the Shard End Dental Practice in Birmingham, noted that UK dentists are often hesitant to take on patients who have undergone cosmetic work abroad due to fears of liability for further damage.
Conclusion
Leanne Abeyance’s harrowing experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with cosmetic dental procedures abroad. While the promise of a perfect smile at a lower cost may be enticing, the reality can be fraught with complications that can lead to severe health issues and financial strain. As she continues her fight for recovery, her story underscores the importance of thorough research and caution when considering cosmetic treatments, particularly those performed outside of one’s home country.
