Unlicensed facelift leaves client scarred – Cosmetologist penalized in Tashkent

A female cosmetologist in Tashkent’s Chilanzor district has been held criminally liable for causing bodily harm to a client due to negligence. QALAMPIR.UZ reviewed the court documents detailing the case.

The investigation revealed that the defendant, who worked as a cosmetologist in a women's salon, performed a surgical procedure without the required permit from the Ministry of Health. On September 20, 2023, at 10:00 p.m., she conducted a facelift procedure, making an incision from the forehead to the area in front of the ear with a scalpel. As a result of the unlicensed operation, the client suffered bodily harm.

During the court hearing, the defendant fully admitted her guilt. She stated that the client had requested a facelift, despite being informed that the procedure required a specialist license. However, the client insisted, and the cosmetologist proceeded with the operation.

Following the procedure, the client underwent 10 days of medical treatment. When the cosmetologist offered follow-up care the next day, the client declined, claiming she had traveled to a wedding in her village. Later, the client informed the cosmetologist that she had removed the surgical threads at another medical clinic and that she felt no pain.

However, five to six months later, in February 2024, the client filed a lawsuit, claiming she had developed scars and demanding $2,000 in compensation. When the cosmetologist refused to pay, the client reported the case to the Internal Affairs Directorate.

On February 20, 2025, the Chilanzar District Criminal Court found the cosmetologist guilty under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code (causing moderate or severe bodily harm through negligence). The court, applying Article 57, sentenced her to a fine equivalent to 10 times the minimum wage.