Former Playboy model Tabby Brown, who once dated England football star Raheem Sterling, tragically passed away just days after returning to the UK following cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic.
Brown, 45, underwent a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) and liposuction in October 2023. She collapsed three days after returning to her home in south London, which she shared with her mother. An inquest revealed her death was caused by a fat embolism, a rare and potentially fatal complication linked to the procedure.
The inquest, held in south London, heard that Brown had concealed her plans for surgery from her family, telling her mother she was taking a two-week trip to South America. She fell ill shortly after returning to the UK but did not seek medical attention, instead opting for painkillers.
Her mother, Mahasin, told the court that Tabby appeared “weak” before being discovered unresponsive on October 13.
Cosmetic surgeon expert Oliver Harley testified that Brown’s surgery involved harvesting fat via liposuction and injecting it into the buttocks to enhance their size. “The BBL is known to cause potential fat embolism and death, and Tabby died as a consequence,” Harley said.
Coroner Julian Morris recorded a narrative verdict, stating, “Tabby’s cause of death was fat embolism caused by liposuction. This is a known but rare complication of the procedure.”
The inquest noted that Brown’s postmortem examination confirmed two puncture wounds on her pelvis consistent with the surgery.
Brown’s family paid tribute to her, highlighting her successful career as a model and performer. She had appeared in music videos for high-profile artists and was featured in campaigns for several major brands.
“She had a big laugh, smile, and a personality that charmed many and matched her beauty,” her family said in a statement. “We are devastated by her premature departure and will always cherish her memory.”
Brown, who had previously dated footballers Raheem Sterling and Mario Balotelli, was known for her vibrant personality and talent. She reportedly dated Balotelli for seven months in 2011 and was later seen on a date with Sterling in 2016.
Brazilian butt-lift procedures, while popular, have drawn criticism for their risks. Improper technique, such as injecting fat too deeply, can result in deadly complications like fat embolism, infections, or sepsis.
Brown’s death follows other recent fatalities linked to the surgery, including 38-year-old Kaydell Brown and Alice Webb, who died in separate incidents earlier in 2023.
Medical experts continue to warn about the dangers of such surgeries, particularly when performed overseas or by unqualified practitioners.
