Miami-Dade police have arrested a woman accused of running a Botox and facial treatment business without a license. Lina Alexandra Gutiérrez-Farfán, 48, was apprehended in the parking lot of a shopping center in western Miami-Dade following an undercover operation conducted by the police.
The police investigation began after a customer reported receiving Botox injections that left a lump on their forehead for about a month. The customer believed Gutiérrez-Farfán was a licensed professional and paid her between $150 and $200 per session. However, when issues arose, the customer was able to provide photographic evidence of the damage caused.
To verify the suspicions, detectives scheduled an appointment with Gutiérrez-Farfán on Tuesday at the Midway Crossings shopping center, also known as Mall of the Americas, located at 7795 W. Flagler St. in Fontainebleau. The suspect agreed to perform a Botox treatment for $350. At the agreed time, detectives observed the woman unloading a gray cooler bag from her Hyundai Tucson.
Upon searching, they found "two vials of suspected Botox," a box labeled Replengen (a filler), and "lidocaine inside a foam container." They also discovered a black box containing a syringe and bandages. Gutiérrez-Farfán, who resides near Homestead, does not have a license to perform medical procedures in Florida.
The woman was arrested and faces two felony charges: practicing medicine without a license and possessing prescription drugs with the intent to sell or distribute. Court records show she was released after posting a $5,000 bond.
This arrest follows a similar incident last month when Miami police arrested Angelina Andreoli, 29, for providing Botox injections and lip fillers without a license at a clinic in Coral Way.
Understanding Unlicensed Medical Practices in Florida
The arrest of Lina Alexandra Gutiérrez-Farfán has raised several important questions about unlicensed medical practices in Florida. Here, we address some of the most pressing concerns.
What are the risks of receiving Botox injections from an unlicensed practitioner?
Receiving Botox injections from an unlicensed practitioner can lead to serious health risks, including infections, allergic reactions, and improper administration of the treatment, which may cause permanent damage.
How can one verify if a practitioner is licensed in Florida?
To verify if a practitioner is licensed in Florida, individuals can check the Florida Department of Health's website, which provides a searchable database of licensed medical professionals.
What legal consequences do unlicensed practitioners face in Florida?
Unlicensed practitioners in Florida can face serious legal consequences, including felony charges, fines, and imprisonment. In addition, they may be subject to civil lawsuits from affected clients.