Man Dies During Hair Transplant Procedure in Turkey

Hair transplants have become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures across the world. Thousands of people travel overseas every year, hoping to restore hair growth at a lower cost than what they might pay at home.

For most, the procedure is completed without major problems. But a recent case has reminded people that no medical procedure is completely free of risk. Martyn Latchman, a 38-year-old teacher and father of two from Bedford, England, died in July 2025 after becoming critically ill during a hair transplant procedure in Turkey. According to evidence presented at an inquest held at Ampthill Coroner's Court in Bedfordshire, Latchman developed convulsions and then suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after receiving a local anaesthetic at the beginning of the procedure. He later died in hospital, reported BBC. Coroner Emma Whitting concluded that the cause of death was "unascertained." However, based on the available medical evidence, she said the findings were consistent with a rare condition known as Local Anaesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST). Because the death occurred overseas, the coroner noted that only limited medical evidence was available. Investigations into the case are still continuing in Turkey.

What is Local Anaesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST)?

Local anaesthetics are medicines used to numb a specific area of the body before a procedure. They are widely used in dentistry, skin surgeries, cosmetic procedures, and many minor operations. In the overwhelming majority of cases, they are considered safe when administered correctly. However, on rare occasions, too much of the medicine may enter the bloodstream or the body may react unexpectedly. This can lead to a serious condition called Local Anaesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST). According to the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA), LAST is uncommon but can become life-threatening because it affects both the brain and the heart.

Hair transplantation is often marketed as a quick, minimally invasive treatment with short recovery times. That can sometimes make people underestimate the fact that it is still a medical procedure involving anaesthesia, sterile surgical techniques and emergency preparedness. Experts have long stressed that every procedure requiring anaesthetic carries some level of risk, even if that risk is very small. These recommendations apply not only to hospitals but also to cosmetic surgery centres where patients may assume procedures are routine.

If you are planning a hair transplant, these questions are worth asking. Most hair transplant procedures are completed safely. The purpose of this case is not to create fear but to encourage informed decisions. Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, health experts advise asking practical questions that often receive less attention than cost or cosmetic results.These include:

Who will administer the anaesthetic?

Is the clinic equipped to manage medical emergencies?

Are trained doctors present throughout the procedure?

What monitoring will be done during surgery?

What are the possible complications, even if they are rare?

Will medical records be shared if emergency hospital care becomes necessary?

People with heart disease, liver disease or certain neurological conditions should also discuss their complete medical history with their doctor beforehand, as underlying health conditions may influence anaesthetic planning. A second medical opinion can also help patients better understand whether they are suitable candidates for surgery.

Cosmetic does not always mean risk-free

It is easy to think of hair restoration as a beauty treatment rather than a medical intervention. Yet every procedure that involves medicines, injections or surgery deserves the same careful planning as any other healthcare decision. Martyn Latchman's death remains under investigation, and no definitive cause has been established.