State Suspends Chicago Plastic Surgeon After Investigation

State officials have halted the medical practice of a Chicago plastic surgeon following a Tribune investigation. This action came in response to eight patient deaths connected to the surgeon, Dr. Ayoub Sayeg. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation admitted to flaws in their investigation of Sayeg, which started after receiving a complaint in late 2020.

The Illinois Medical Board stepped in after the Tribune reported in early June about the deaths. They conducted an inspection of Sayeg’s 63 Laser & Skin Clinic on the Southwest Side. Records reveal that on June 18, two state investigators, including the department’s chief of investigations, visited the facility. On July 7, a division director suspended Sayeg’s medical license for his failure to provide proof of compliance with educational requirements related to anesthesia services.

The department cited Sayeg’s lack of evidence for continuing medical education in anesthesia services and a certified nurse anesthetist’s cardiac life support certification as reasons for the suspension. They concluded that Sayeg’s practice posed an immediate danger to the public.

Sayeg’s suspension took effect immediately and indefinitely. The clinic staff confirmed to the Tribune that Sayeg was no longer at the clinic, declining further comments.

The Tribune previously reported on the deaths of eight women, all patients at Sayeg’s clinic, located in a predominantly Latino neighborhood. Six died from surgery complications, while two overdosed on medication at home. Procedures involved tummy tucks and liposuction.

State officials admitted delays in responding to the October 2020 complaint about the death of Idalia Corcoles, a mother of four. Her family sued in 2021, resulting in a $56 million verdict in 2024. The investigation into her case had stalled for several years.

Further complaints include one filed on April 9 regarding Crystal Walker Keating, who died the same day as her surgery in 2018. Her family’s lawsuit resulted in $1.1 million in settlements, including $470,000 attributed to Sayeg.

The Illinois regulatory body is seeking to impose the maximum penalty to ensure Sayeg cannot practice medicine in Illinois again. Sayeg, who also runs a practice in Michigan, is contesting the suspension of his Illinois license.

Sharon Israel’s stepdaughter, Yacarah Israel, expressed relief over the suspension. She criticized the state’s delayed action, commenting on the recurring loss of life.

Sayeg’s attorneys have denied any wrongdoing on his part, describing him as an “excellent practitioner.” They argue that the state unfairly targets him over credential-related issues that do not reflect his capabilities as a doctor.

Regulatory officials in Michigan are also investigating Sayeg based on complaints associated with surgeries he performed in 2024.

Illinois officials are planning an internal review to improve handling of similar cases and expedite disciplinary action. The Tribune report prompted reactions from public officials demanding higher oversight for surgical facilities.

Chicago Alderman Silvana Tabares and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker have echoed concerns regarding the oversight of plastic surgery facilities. Pritzker condemned Sayeg’s practices, emphasizing the need for stringent consequences. State Senator Mike Porfirio also called for legislative measures to prevent such cases in the future.