UPDATE: A woman from Sugar Land, Texas, has been charged after allegedly injecting a patient with a counterfeit filler, leading to serious medical complications. Court documents reveal that Iris Vanessa Garcia, 35, is facing charges for practicing medicine without a license and causing harm following a botched procedure on September 26, 2023.
The victim, who contacted Garcia through her Instagram account, “One_Aesthetics.htx,” scheduled an appointment for Botox and dermal filler treatments at Garcia’s business, One Aesthetics Houston, located at 1500 South Dairy Ashford Road in west Houston. Garcia falsely claimed to be certified to administer these cosmetic injections and assured the patient that she would use authentic Juvederm, a widely used wrinkle filler.
After paying over $1,000 for the procedure, the woman began experiencing serious complications, including feeling “chunks” along her jawline. In a troubling escalation, Garcia injected her with an unknown substance, claiming it would dissolve the lumps. Just days later, the woman reported severe drooping of her right eyelid and paralysis in her forehead.
The situation worsened, prompting her to visit the Memorial Heights Emergency Center where medical staff diagnosed her with facial nerve palsy. Concerned for her health, she sought to verify Garcia’s credentials during a final visit on October 23, but Garcia refused to provide any proof of certification.
An investigation by the Houston Police Department Major Offenders Division confirmed that Garcia was not licensed to perform any cosmetic procedures. As a result, she was officially charged on December 1.
This alarming case highlights the risks associated with unlicensed cosmetic procedures and the importance of verifying practitioners’ credentials before undergoing treatments. As authorities continue to investigate, patients are urged to prioritize safety and seek licensed professionals for cosmetic enhancements. Stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing case.
